Mountain West Conference Power Rankings—Week Six

The Mountain West Conference is what we thought it was...

Most teams have reached the halfway point in their schedule. Taking a look around the conference it appears that the Big-three of TCU, BYU and Utah are still the class of the Mountain West Conference.

Utah did have a genuine scare this weekend, but once again did just enough to beat their opponent. TCU also had a scare, but it really wasn’t as close as the final score indicated.

The really interesting team in the conference is Wyoming. If the Cowboys are really for real at 4-2 this season, then their game against Air Force will be their coming out party.

Here are the Week Six Power Rankings.

1) TCU—The Horned Frogs fell in the polls due to their performance against Air Force on the road. Obviously many of the voters didn’t watch the game, but rather just looked at the final score. The game was never really in doubt, and Air Force only made it close very late in the game. TCU did suffer from turnovers; however, Air Force is ranked first in the nation in forced turnovers.

The Colorado State game will be very interesting for the Horned Frogs, and should prove to be the most interesting game of the week. The Rams looked to finally take the next step in the conference, and take down one of the big-three teams. Yet, both teams have something to prove this weekend. The Horned Frogs could slip up this weekend if they are looking ahead to their matchup in Provo against BYU.

Week Seven Schedule: Colorado State @ TCU

2) BYU— The Cougars did exactly what they were supposed to do on the road against a really bad UNLV team. The game was over after the first quarter. What was impressive for BYU is the fact that Harvey Unga looks healthy. Unga is already the best running back in the conference, and he is just now running healthy for the first time this season.

This week the Cougars will face the Aztecs on the road. This game should be over quickly, but it is important for BYU to not look ahead to their showdown with TCU the following week.

Week Seven Schedule: BYU @ San Diego State

3) Utah—A person could really look at the Utes’ win in a variety of ways. An optimist would see a first year JUCO quarterback leading his team back to victory, and getting major support from a talented defense. The Utes did what they need to do in order to win the game. A pessimist would see signs of weakness in this year’s Utah team, and would credit the win more to Colorado State’s meltdown than Utah’s spectacular play.

For an offense which is still trying to find an identity since losing Matt Asiata, a trip to UNLV is perfect. The Utes will dominate this weekend, and will have plenty of confidence heading home for three straight home games.

Week Seven Schedule: Utah @ UNLV

4) Air Force—The three losses this season for the Falcons have been by a combined 13 points. Many people penalized TCU for playing a close game with Air Force, but the game really said more about Air Force. The Falcons could have just established themselves clearly as the best of the non-big-three.

The Cowboys are heading down to Colorado Springs. This is a must win for Air Force, they are clearly the better team on paper. A loss to Wyoming would really set back the Falcon’s season.

Week Seven Schedule: Wyoming @ Air Force

5) Wyoming— A win over New Mexico isn’t much to brag about. The Cowboys did win, and they did win by more than three touchdowns. The problem for the Pokes’ is they could easily turn their 4-2 record into 5-7. The Cowboys still need to play the upper half of the Mountain West Conference in the second half of the season.

This weekend is very important in Wyoming’s quest to get the all important sixth win. Most likely Wyoming will beat San Diego State. Which means Air Force and Colorado State are the next most likely wins for the Pokes’. The real story in the game against Air Force is the battle of ball control. Both Air Force and Wyoming are ranked in the top ten in the nation in turnover margin. Wyoming will need to hold onto the football in order to give their team a chance to win this weekend.

Week Seven Schedule: Wyoming @ Air Force

6) Colorado State—What a choke job! The Rams had everything going for them late in the third quarter against Utah, but then Colorado State just fell apart. Utah’s Robert Johnson came up with three interceptions, and the Rams blew their chances to take a major step in reestablishing themselves as a major player in the Mountain West Conference. Colorado State’s defense was really holding Utah’s offense, and it seemed odd the Rams didn’t try to play a field position game against Utah to finish the game.

This is the last chance Colorado State has to really make a statement in the Mountain West Conference this season. The Rams have the talent to play with TCU. The horned Frogs could also be looking ahead to their trip to Provo to face BYU. Colorado State just hasn’t developed the consistency of play to win big games. If Colorado State can put together a solid four quarters of football, then they could keep it close and have a chance to win in Fort Worth this weekend.

Week Seven Schedule: Colorado State @ TCU

7) San Diego State— There have been flashes of brilliance this season for San Diego State. This is a promising sign for anyone who cheers for Aztec football, but those flashes of brilliance are too few and too far between.

The bye week should have helped San Diego State prepare for BYU. If the Aztecs can keep it close going into the second half that would be a major moral victory for them.

Week Seven Schedule: BYU @ San Diego State

8) UNLV— Wow, UNLV’s season fell apart in a hurry! The Rebels were completely outclassed by BYU last weekend. The defense of UNLV is just awful. The Rebels defense is ranked 113rd in rushing defense, 106^th in passing defense, 101^st in sacks, 104^th in turnover margin, 109^th in tackles for loss, and 116^th in total defense.

Things will not improve for the Rebels this weekend as Utah will travel to Vegas. The Utah offense is still trying to figure out how to function without Matt Asiata; however, the Utes’ offense will benefit more from playing UNLV’s defense than UNLV’s defense will benefit from playing Utah’s offense. It looks to be another ugly weekend for the Rebels.

Week Seven Schedule: Utah @ UNLV

9) New Mexico— The University of New Mexico has decided to take action for their head coach getting in a fight with an assistant coach. New Mexico’s head coach Mike Locksley has been suspended for the Lobos’ game against UNLV. He also will be suspended for eight working days, and cannot have any contact with his team during that period. The ironic thing is a lack of Locksley’s presence might actually help the Lobos.

The Lobos should enjoy this week because it is the only week they won’t lose a game this season.

Week Seven Schedule: Bye Week

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Mountain West Conference 2009 Power Rankings – Week Five

Another tough week for the Mountain West Conference...

The second tier teams in the Mountain West Conference had a terrible weekend: Air Force fell on the road for the seventh straight time, UNLV lost for the fifth straight time to Nevada, and Colorado State fell on the road to perennial doormat Idaho.

TCU, BYU, and Utah continue to be the big three teams in the conference, without another team rising in the conference this season to compete for the Mountain West Conference title.

This weekend is the first full schedule of Mountain West Conference games. The difference between the upper level teams and the lower level teams will really start show after this weekend.

Here are the week five power rankings.

1) TCU – The Horned Frogs started slow, but finished off SMU easily. For all of the hype the defense is receiving, and rightfully so, the offense is also playing well. TCU is ranked 27th in total offense, and 21st in scoring offense. TCU is very good at controlling the ball, with just 6 turnovers the entire season.

TCU’s defense shouldn’t have any trouble containing the Air Force option. The interesting part will be to see if TCU’s defense will continue to avoid turnovers against a ball hawking Falcon defense.

Week 6 Schedule: TCU @ Air Force

2) BYU – The defense played well at home against Utah State. The Cougar defense held the 9th ranked Aggie defense to just 322 total yards of offense (with the majority of those yards coming when the game was out of hand), with just 106 yards on the ground. The offense continues to struggle with ball control. BYU is ranked 115th in turnovers lost.

This weekend should help both the offense and defense gain confidence as BYU head to UNLV. The Rebels are coming off an embarrassing performance in which they gave up 773 yards of total offense to a previously winless Nevada team. Harvey should be licking his chops just thinking about going against UNLV.

Week 6 Schedule: BYU @ UNLV

3) Utah – The bye week came at the right time for Utes. Utah needed to reformulate their offense after losing Matt Asiata for the season. The Utah defense has looked dominating at times this season, but nothing like the shut down defense of last season. Terrance Cain will need to take on more of the offense for the rest of the season.

This week will be the true coming out party for backup running back Eddie Wide. Unlike the Louisville game, Colorado State will be prepared for Wide and the Asiata-less Utes. The Utes though have had an entire week to plan for Colorado State, and have seen the Rams lose twice in a row to BYU, and then to Idaho. Utah should get the win.

Week 6 Schedule: Utah @ Colorado State

4) Air Force – Another heartbreaking loss to Navy for Air Force. For the past few seasons it only appeared Air Force would reclaim the Commander and Chief Trophy, but once again the Midshipmen were too much for the Flacons to handle. Air Force managed just three conversions on third down. The defense for the Falcons was excellent, but couldn’t hand the Falcons a big win.

Now the Falcons go from playing a huge rivalry game, to taking on the best team in the conference at home. The Falcons defense will have to play another excellent game to even give their offense a chance to upset the Horned Frogs.

Week 6 Schedule: TCU @ Air Force

5) Colorado State – Idaho only has a single loss; however, losing to Idaho was embarrassing for the Rams. Colorado State has not played up to their potential since they fell on their face in the first quarter against BYU. Colorado State is a much better team than the team that lost to Idaho over the weekend.

Colorado State could really take a huge step forward with a win over Utah this weekend. The Rams will have the first crack at taking on the Utes without Matt Asiata, but they will have to elevate their game in order to win.

Week 6 Schedule: Utah @ Colorado State

6) Wyoming – The Cowboys nearly suffered a very embarrassing road loss to Florida Atlantic. It took a three touchdown performance from running back Alvester Alexander for Wyoming to win. Wyoming still is the real surprise team of the year in the Mountain West Conference.

In order for Wyoming to get to the magic bowl qualifying sixth victory this season they must win this weekend against New Mexico. Wyoming’s schedule is definitely tougher in the second half of the season. Wyoming should be favored against New Mexico and San Diego State; however, it will take an upset victory (most likely against Colorado State or Air Force) for the Pokes to get to win number six.

Week 6 Schedule: New Mexico @ Wyoming

7) San Diego State – The Aztecs were able to beat a very bad New Mexico
team at home. Yet, San Diego State continues to be a work in progress.

The bye week will allow San Diego State to game plan for BYU, and the Aztecs are going to need every minute to come up with a way to slow down BYU.

Week 6 Schedule: Bye

8) UNLV – The loss to Nevada was embarrassing, and nearly earned the Rebels the bottom spot in this week’s power rankings. What is most amazing about UNLV’s defeat is the fact that they were tied with Nevada 28-28 with 4:20 left in the third quarter. The Rebels then allowed 35 unanswered points to end up losing 63-28. The Rebels continue to be the fool’s gold of Mountain West Conference teams.

If UNLV had trouble with Nevada, then they are really going to struggle to contain a better BYU offense. Harvey Unga is going to be a nightmare for the Rebels to contain this weekend.

Week 6 Schedule: BYU @ UNLV

9) New Mexico – The Lobos are really bad, and they continue to have serious problems both on and off the field.

The Lobos had better show up this weekend against Wyoming if they hope to do anything in conference play this season.

Week 6 Schedule: New Mexico @ Wyoming

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Mountain West Conference 2009 Power Rankings, Week Four

TCU looks to be the team to beat this season in the Mountain West Conference.

The Mountain West Conference ended up with some impressive wins in week four of the college football season. TCU beat Clemson on the road, and Utah took care of Louisville at home.

Week five features nothing but non-conference games for the conference. Of the seven games scheduled the Mountain West Conference teams should be favored in all but one of the games.

This is another important week for the Mountain West Conference in their quest for national respect. Four of the games pit Mountain West Conference teams against Western Athletic Conference teams. It is very important for Mountain West teams to win their games against other non-automatic qualifying conferences — if they want an automatic bid to the BCS in the future.

Here are the week four rankings.

1)TCU - (Last Week's Ranking 1)

TCU's defense is giving up just 245 yards a game, which ranks them 12th in college football. TCU is also ranked 21st in scoring defense, and 8th in sacks per game. TCU's defense is definitely the class of the Mountain West Conference. The offensive numbers for TCU are a little inflated at this point. Luckily, TCU's offense shouldn't have to score much to win this season with such a great defense.

After a big non-conference win over Clemson it is important for TCU not to overlook a much improved SMU team. If TCU is mentally prepared, then the Horned Frogs should win easily this weekend.

Week 5 Schedule: TCU @ SMU

2)BYU - (Last Week's Ranking 2)

It seems as if the Cougars were able to put their loss to Florida State behind them, as they took care of Colorado State at home. BYU only really played their best football in the first quarter and coasted the rest of the game.

BYU will face the fourth leading rusher in the nation this Friday, as Robert Turbin and Utah State come to Provo this Friday. Utah State is better than their 1-2 record. BYU could be in a dogfight if they overlook the Aggies.

Week 5 Schedule: Utah @ BYU

3)Utah - (Last Week's Ranking 6)

The Utes seemed to have righted their ship easily beating Louisville at home. Losing Matt Asiata for the season will really hurt the Utes as they start league play. Asiata was averaging the most yards per game of any Mountain West Conference running back. Eddie Wide did fill in well for the Utes gaining 129 against Louisville.

The bye week comes at the right time for the Utes so they can adjust their offense in preparation for conference play.

Week 5 Schedule: BYE

4)Air Force - (Last Week's Ranking 5)

Air Force's defense is very impressive this season. The Falcons have the 9th best scoring defense, and lead the nation in forced turnovers with 15. Air Force is one bad quarter away from being undefeated this season.

This Saturday's game at Navy will basically determine who will win the Commander and Chief Trophy. Air Force hasn't beat Navy since 2002. The Falcons will look to end their losing streak to Navy, and bring back the Commander and Chief Trophy to Colorado Springs.

Week 5 Schedule: Air Force @ Navy

5)Colorado State - (Last Week's Ranking 3)

Take away the first quarter of play last Saturday, and the Rams played even with BYU on the road. Colorado State proved they will be able to compete with any team in the conference this season. Nine wins this season for the Rams seems very doable.

Colorado State's game this weekend is the very interesting. Idaho, perennial dog of college football, already has more wins this season than their last two seasons combined. Colorado State needs to avoid being snakebit by a surprising Idaho team this weekend.

Week 5 Schedule: Colorado State @ Idaho

6)Wyoming - (Last Week's Ranking 8)

Wyoming continues to be a hard team to figure out. They did take advantage of UNLV's turnovers and come away with an impressive conference upset win. Yet, it is difficult to know which Wyoming team is going to show up to play each Saturday.

This weekend's game should be a gimmie for the Pokes, but you just don't know this season with Wyoming.

Week 5 Schedule: Wyoming @ Florida Atlantic

7)UNLV - (Last Week's Ranking 4)

This year's Rebel squad looks a lot like the squad from the last two years. UNLV has a ton of talent. It appears they are going to take the next step to compete in the conference every season. Yet, UNLV just doesn't win the games they are suppose to win. UNLV turned the ball over four times in their loss to Wyoming, including losing a fumble on the game tying field goal attempt with 1:19 left in the fourth quarter.

UNLV will now try to get back on track by playing win less in-state rival Nevada. A team the Rebels have lost to for four consecutive years in the annual Fremont Cannon game. The result of this week's game will be very telling about just how good the Rebels really are this season.

Week 5 Schedule: UNLV @ Nevada

8)San Diego State - (Last Week's Ranking 7)

The Aztecs continued to look good in stretches against Air Force. They still have a ways to go in order to be competitive in conference. If San Diego State put together a complete game, then they could surprise some teams later in conference play.

New Mexico State might be the worst 2-2 team in the country. This weekends game is really a must win for San Diego State.

Week 5 Schedule: New Mexico State @ San Diego State

9)New Mexico - (Last Week's Ranking 9)

The Lobos appear to be a train wreck this season. The team is losing, and members of their coaching staff are punching each other in meetings. The embarrassment will continue this Saturday.

New Mexico is ranked 107th in defensive yards allowed a game. They are playing Texas Tech who is ranked 13th in total offense a game. It isn't going to be a good day to be a Lobos fan.

Week 5 Schedule: New Mexico @ Texas Tech

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Mountain West Conference 2009 Power Rankings Week 3

A tough weekend for the Mountain West Conference...

The Mountain West Conference had another chance to prove itself over the weekend; however, the conference was unable to hold the momentum created since the Sugar Bowl last season. Utah looked bad in their loss to Oregon, and BYU was humiliated at home against a suspect Florida State team. TCU beat bad Texas State team, while UNLV and Colorado State held on to beat the WAC teams they were suppose to beat. Wyoming was blanked by a very bad Colorado team.

The down weekend proved one thing about the Mountain West Conference, the national media will hold the conference to a higher standard. The Mountain West Conference not only needs to be better than some of the major conferences, the Mountain West Conference needs to be perfect. I thought Mark May of ESPN best expressed this sentiment of a higher standard when he wrote after this weekend's games, "All the talk about the Mountain West getting an automatic bid into the BCS can stop. The best two teams from the conference (BYU and Utah) fell flat on their faces to unranked opponents."

While TCU would object to not being included as the best team in the conference, May's logic is flawed. USC lost to an unranked team in the PAC-10, just like Utah; however, May isn't claiming all of USC's past success is void. Ranked teams loss to unranked teams all the time, Florida lost to an unranked Mississippi team last season.

Did the Mountain West Conference look good this weekend? No. Yet, a single poor weekend does not prove the opponents of including the Mountain West Conference in the BCS correct. The Mountain West Conference is better this season than ever before from top to bottom.

Here are the week 3 rankings:

1)TCU - The Horned Frogs will be put to their first real test of the season. It is not only important for TCU to win this weekend to continue their goal of a BCS birth, but it is also important for them to save the conference from another embarrassing loss. A win this weekend would prove what many thought going into this season, that TCU is the team to beat in the Mountain West Conference.

Week 4 schedule: TCU @ Clemson

2)BYU - Last season BYU wasn't able to recover from a bad loss to TCU on the road. This season BYU has to recover from one of the most embarrassing home losses in school history. Florida State exposed BYU's defense. BYU will face a stiff challenge this weekend in a surprisingly 3-0 Colorado State. If BYU allows the effects of their loss to Florida State to linger, then BYU could be in real trouble this weekend.

Week 4 Schedule: Colorado State @ BYU

3)Colorado State - The Rams are 3-0, but they are a very shaky 3-0. The win over Colorado doesn't look nearly as impressive. Weber State also gave Colorado State a scare in their second game. The Rams did take care of Nevada, benefiting from five Nevada turnovers. Colorado State could open some eyes as they start conference play against BYU this weekend.

Week 4 Schedule: Colorado State @ BYU

4)UNLV - The Rebels are a single poor defensive play away from being 3-0. The Rebels are explosive on offense, and their team is extremely athletic. The Rebels have also learned how to play in close games. Although they didn't come out on top against Oregon State, the Rebels did put together an impressive late drive to take the lead. They also engineered a game winning drive against Hawaii. The Rebels will try to continue their impressive start against Wyoming as they start conference play.

Week 4 Schedule: UNLV @ Wyoming

5)Air Force - The Falcons were good last year, but they are another improved team from last season. Air Force is notorious for fading down the stretch due to the fatigue their athletes experience from their additional military training. Air Force might be looking ahead to Navy game, and might be setting themselves up for a trap game against San Diego State this weekend.

Week 4 schedule: San Diego State @ Air Force

6)Utah - The Utes were sloppy against Utah State, bad against San Jose State, and awful against Oregon. This is a rebuilding year for Utah, and in order to have success they need a healthy Matt Asiata. The Utes do not seem as if they have not found a strong team personality this season. With Louisville coming into Rice-Eccles the Utes better find a personality before this Saturday, or else they could be facing another loss.

Week 4 Schedule: Louisville @ Utah

7)San Diego State - This is were the big gap occurs in the conference talent. The Aztecs are a long ways back of the Utes in the power rankings. The Aztecs look good in stretches, and might put together a complete game and surprise a conference opponent. San Diego State could sneak up on Air Force this weekend.

Week 4 Schedule: San Diego State @ Air Force

8)Wyoming - The Cowboys looked bad, in a game against a bad Colorado team. They will have their hands full this weekend taking on a good UNLV team.

Week 4 Schedule: UNLV @ Wyoming

9)New Mexico - The Lobos have 29 total points this season in three games. This weekends game against New Mexico State could be their only chance at victory this entire season. New Mexico State has only beat Prairie View A&M, by three points. Set your Tivos for this slug fest.

Week 4 Schedule: New Mexico State @ New Mexico

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Mountain West Conference 2009 Power Rankings Week 2

Here are the Mountain West power rankings for the second week of college football...

1)BYU - The Cougars did what they were suppose to do in their game against Tulane. BYU dominated Tulane from the opening kickoff to the final whistle. Tulane is not a good team, but BYU for the most part didn't play down to the level of Tulane. Florida State should be a marquee game for BYU, although it has lost a lot of its luster because of the Seminoles loss to Miami, and near loss to Jacksonville State.

Week 3 Schedule:Florida State at BYU

2)TCU - In their first game of their season TCU dominated Virginia. TCU only gave up seven first downs, with three of them coming in the fourth quarter when the game was basically over. TCU didn't get a real test of how good they will be this season against Virginia, and won't this week against Texas State.

Week 3 Schedule:Texas State at TCU

3)Utah - Turnovers really burned the Utes, and kept San Jose State in the game. This rash of turnovers by the Ute offense isn't a shock. The shocking thing about the Ute turnovers is the fact that new quarterback Terrance Cain isn't responsible for more. Cain played very well in the game, which is a great sign for the Utes. The first two games were suppose to solidify the offense and prepare the Utes for their games against Oregon and Louisville. Oregon will be looking at this game against Utah as a must win to salvage their non-conference portion of the season. This Saturday's game will be very revealing for Utah.

Week 3 Schedule:Utah at Oregon

4)Colorado State - Suddenly Colorado State's win over Colorado doesn't look as substantial after Toledo humiliated Colorado last weekend. Also shocking was the fact that Colorado State needed to come back from behind in the fourth quarter to beat Weber State. Colorado State has to hope that Weber State was just a let down game after beating Colorado, and that they will be ready to deal with a Nevada team coming off a bye week, looking for something to prove after getting humiliated by Notre Dame.

Week 3 Schedule:Nevada at Colorado State

5)UNLV - A pass interference call on Oregon State's final drive game the Beavers a new set of downs, and a chance to march down the field for the game winning field goal. UNLV had the game won and let it slip away. UNLV needs to learn how to play up to their potential. UNLV has the talent to compete in the Mountain West, but what they lack is consistency. Hawaii should be a win for the Rebels after dropping a close game against Oregon State.

Week 3 Schedule:Hawaii at UNLV

6)Air Force - For three quarters of the game Air Force was in control. Air Force was just not able to finish off Minnesota on the road. A Minnesota touchdown off a fumble recovery sealed the Falcon's defeat. A trip to New Mexico to take on a terrible New Mexico team to start conference play should help heal the Falcon's wounds.

Week 3 Schedule:Air Force at New Mexico

7)San Diego State - The Aztecs continue to look improved from previous seasons. Of course looking at the past few seasons for San Diego State that isn't saying very much. Aztecs should beat Idaho in a contest of two somewhat improved teams.

Week 3 Schedule:San Diego State at Idaho

8)Wyoming - The Cowboys nearly took a lead into halftime against Texas at home, but the Longhorns woke up and scored thirty-five unanswered points. Wyoming has another chance to take on a Big 12 school this week, and this time they might have a chance to win. Wyoming could really gauge where they are as a football program. They could also help to put a few final nails in Coach Hawkins coffin, if they go to Colorado and come home with a win.

Week 3 Schedule:Wyoming at Colorado

9)New Mexico - New Mexico is the only team in the conference without a win, and it might be a while before the Lobos get their first win. It is going to be a very long and dreadful season for the Lobos.

Week 3 Schedule:Air Force at New Mexico

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Mountain West Conference 2009 Power Rankings Week 1

Here are the Power Rankings after the first week of college football...

1)BYU - BYU is coming off a monster victory, which is not only big for BYU, but also the Mountain West Conference. With the victory over Oklahoma BYU is now the team to beat in the conference. Cougars are on the road again this week, playing in another massive stadium, the Superdome, but this time playing a weaker Tulane team. The only way that BYU runs into problems this week is if they are looking ahead to the home opener against Florida State.

2)Utah - Utah did what they needed to do in their opener. Cain played like a first time starter, and the defense did just enough to beat Utah State. Utah get another tune up game before the playing their bigger non-conference games with this weeks contest against San Jose State.

3)Colorado State - Nobody was expecting much out of Colorado State this season. Most people thought that maybe Colorado State could be a mid level team in the Mountain West Conference at best. Colorado State handled Colorado in their season opener. Colorado was lucky to get the final score within six points. Colorado State is continuing their resurgence, and climb back to being an elite team in the Mountain West Conference. Colorado State faces Ron McBride and Weber State this week, and should be able to cruise to a win at home.

4)TCU - I almost kept TCU out of the rankings this week, simply because they have not played this season. TCU should be one of the top teams in the conference, and the nation this season. For that reason TCU is fourth in the week 1 power rankings. TCU starts their season this week against Virginia, a team which is coming off a loss to Williams & Mary. Frogs should get the season going big this weekend.

5)Air Force - Wow! 72-0! Even for playing a Division II team 72-0 is a big win. Minnesota is going to be a much bigger challenge for Air Force this weekend.

6)UNLV - The Rebels cruised to an easy win over a lowly opponent. UNLV should show more this week as they face Oregon State at home.

7)Wyoming - Wyoming avoided embarrassment by holding on at home against Weber State. This week the Cowboys try to avoid embarrassment against Texas in Laramie. You want to talk about the Mountain West Conference shaking up the college football landscape, just imagine what would happen "if" Wyoming beat Texas. That is a seemingly unimaginable "if," but just imagine if you will.

8)San Diego State - The Aztecs actually jumped out to a big lead, but after a controversial non-fumble call San Diego State really faltered. San Diego State looks to be much better this year. The Aztecs get Southern Utah at home, and should get their first win of the year.

9)New Mexico - 606 yards of total offense. That is the amount of yardage that New Mexico gave up to Texas A&M in their opener. Things could get worse for the Lobos this week as Tulsa's high powered offense comes into University Stadium, and will likely leave New Mexico's defense in shambles. It could be a long season for the Lobos.

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Final Regular Season Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

Utah wins the Holy War, breaks into the BCS again, and claims the top spot in the regular season power rankings...

Utah is the outright conference champions after taking care of business against BYU in the Holy War. Utah now is just watching score, and waiting to see if they will play in the Sugar, Orange or Fiesta Bowl. There is also an odd waiting game that will take place between BYU and TCU if Boise State doesn't get a BCS bowl, and they play in the Poinsettia Bowl. If that were to occur then BYU and TCU would both want to avoid being selected by the Las Vegas Bowl(The Vegas Bowl gets the first selection of either TCU or BYU). Here are the final regular season Mountain West Power Rankings:

1)Utah - The Utes are perfect, and did what they needed to do to beat every team in the conference.

2)TCU - For all but one quarter the Horned Frogs were the best team in the Mountain West Conference. The problem for TCU is that the one quarter they chocked they were playing Utah. TCU is now in the running, with BYU, to be the team that doens't get selected by the Las Vegas Bowl. Poinsettia Bowl is the real non-BCS prize seeing it will pit either TCU/BYU against Boise State.

3)BYU - Max Hall's performance cost the Cougars a shot at beating the Utes and slipping into the BCS. The Cougars only had two mis-steps the entire season, but both were disasters. The Cougars have the majority of their team coming back for Hall's Senior season, and it is important for them to play well in whatever bowl game they play in.

4)Colorado State - The Rams made a quick turn around this year, and are back on track to getting back to being a power player in the conference.

5)Air Force - The Falcons had two tough games to end the season facing BYU and TCU. They competed in both games, but weren't able to do enough to win. The good news for the Falcons is a chance to play in a bowl game. Air Force is young and will get better over the next few years.

6)San Diego State - The Aztecs came up with a big win to end the season, and the athletic director gave a vote of confidence to Chuck Long that he would survive the sub-par season. After the vote of confidence the Aztecs fired Chuck Long and are in a market for a new coach.

7)UNLV - The Rebels let too many games get away from them this season, and it cost them a chance to play in a bowl game.

8)New Mexico - Four straight losses to end the season, and Rocky Long stepping down was a terrible way for the Lobos to end their season.  It will be hard for New Mexico to replace Long and get the offense back on track next year.  

9)Wyoming - Joe Glenn fired, and thankfully the Cowboys' season is over.

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Week 13 Mountain West Football Power Rankings

The "Holy War" Edition of the rankings...

This is the week of the greatest "Holy War" of all time. Two teams, one loss between them, and a chance at a BCS bowl on the line. If BYU wouldn't have got their butts kicked by TCU earlier in the season the game would be better, but this weekends game should still be really good. Here are the week 13 rankings:

1)Utah - Utah destroyed San Diego State, and has one game left. Utah controls their own destiny as far as getting into a BCS bowl game, and with some serious help Utah could make a case that they deserve a shot at the national title.

2)BYU - BYU woke from a "zombie like sleep" in the second half of the Air Force game. Whether it was Austin Collie calling the defense out at halftime or a change by the coaching staff something click. BYU took control of the game against a very good Air Force team, and wouldn't allow the Falcons to get any momentum built up to stage a comeback. If BYU can play like they did in the second half, then the Holy War is going to be excellent.

3)TCU - Horned Frogs get a great week for a bye, and have an additional week to prepare for Air Force. TCU will take care of business, and hope BYU will help them out by beating Utah giving the Horned Frogs a share of the Mountain West Title.

4)Air Force - The Falcons are a young team that played well against BYU, and Utah earlier in the season. The Cadets will represent the conference well in a bowl game.

5)UNLV - The Rebels keep their bowl hopes alive after knocking off Wyoming. One game remains between the Rebels and being bowl eligible.

6)Colorado State - The huge (ha ha I still don't buy that this is a big rivalry) Wyoming game is all that is keeping the Rams from becoming the sixth bowl eligible team from the Mountain West Conference. This would really help out the Colorado State program's rebuilding progress.

7)New Mexico - Disappointing year continues.

8)Wyoming - The Joe Glenn watch continues after the pokes can't hang on to beat UNLV.

9)San Diego State - AWFUL, BAD, PATHETIC! Is it basketball season yet?

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Week 11 Mountain West Football Power Rankings

A new team moves into the top spot for the conference...

This Thursday game between TCU and Utah is the biggest game in conference history. The winner will be in control of the conference, and will be the leading canadatee from the conference to break into the BCS. Here are the rankings for week 11:

1a)TCU - TCU moves into the top spot for the first time this season. Since the return of Dalton, the Horned Frogs have been unstoppable. With a win over Utah TCU can cement their second conference title since joining the conference.

1b)Utah - Utah might have been looking ahead to TCU game this Thursday, but the offense struggled against New Mexico. That isn't a good sign heading into the game this Thursday.

3)BYU - Another close call for BYU. They did climb to #15 in the BCS standings, but the defense has proven to be sub-standard to the ranking that BYU currently holds.

4)Air Force - Air Force has quietly remained near the top of the conference standings. They have two more chances to make a move to the top of the conference with games against BYU and TCU to end the season.

5a)Colorado State - Colorado State looks to provide the conference with a fifth bowl team.

5b)New Mexico - The Lobos have an above average defense and a sub-par offense. The Lobos could still make a bowl game, but they will need more from their offense to make that happen.

7)UNLV - The Rebels might be the best team in the country that hasn't won a conference game. The Rebels weren't able to contain TCU's offense or get by their defense. The Rebels look now for their first conference vitory with Wyoming and san Diego State still remaining on the schedule.

8)Wyoming - It may not be enough to save the job of Joe Glenn, but at least they aren't the worst team in the conference after beating San Diego State at home.

9)San Diego State - The Aztec cemented their spot at the bottom of the power rankings by losing big to Wyoming.

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Week 10 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

Utah remains on top of the Power Rankings during their bye...

This week might be the calm before the storm. Utah and TCU both have games that might trip them up, but they should be able to take care of business with both teams. Next week they face off in the game that will decide how the conference title will shape up. Here are the rankings for week 10:

1)Utah - It seems that the best thing the Utes could do last week was to have a bye. Utah should be refocused and ready for the stretch run. Utah needs no to look to far ahead to the TCU game next week, because the Lobos could give the Utes some problems.

2)TCU - Horned Frogs keep on winning. UNLV might be a trap game for TCU this week if they are looking ahead to the conference show down with Utah.

3)BYU - A close win at home might be what the Cougars needed. To prove to themselves that they can win games when their backs are up against the wall. BYU still has a lot of holes in the secondary that need to improve to have a chance to get back a share of the conference title.

4)Air Force - The Falcons are the biggest surprise this season in the Mountain West. The Falcons have found ways to win close games. Falcons still have a tough schedule to finish the season.

5)Colorado State - The Rams continue to be another surprise team in the conference this season. The Rams will have two chances to make some noise in the conference facing BYU this week and Air Force the following week.

6)New Mexico - An up and down year for the Lobos continues. The Lobos will need some luck to become bowl eligible, but they have the talent to get the wins.

7)UNLV - The Rebels are MUCH better than their record indicates. UNLV needs to find a way to win close conference games, and to get a stop on defense.

8)San Diego State - Showed some signs of life in loss to Colorado State earns the Aztecs the second to last spot in the polls.

9)Wyoming - Like everything else in Wyoming, just not that good.

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Week 9 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

TCU's win over BYU changes up the look of the power rankings for week 9...

The Mountain West Conference has become more interesting this weekend. The Horned Frogs are now in the drivers seat for the conference title, and could make a run at getting into a BCS bowl game with a single loss. It looks as if the fate of the conference will be decided on November 6th as TCU faces Utah in Salt Lake City. A win by TCU would all but guarantee them the conference title. While Utah could use a win over TCU at home to propel them high in the national polls. I win by the Utes would also give BYU hopes of beating Utah and getting a share of the conference title back, after an embarrassing loss to TCU. New Mexico exploded for seventy points over the weekend, and the Rebels could keep yet another fourth quarter lead losing to Air Force at home. It should be a very exciting last month of football for the Mountain West Conference. Here are the week 9 power rankings:

1)Utah - Utah controls their own destiny. They play the other top teams in the conference at home(BYU and TCU). The Utes put together three quarters of solid football against Colorado State and destroyed the Rams at home. The running attack of the Utes look solid, and the defense looks to be able to get key stops. It is going to be tough to beat the Utes.

2)TCU - TCU is now in the driver's seat to win the conference. I was tempted to place the Horned Frogs into the top spot in the power rankings after the manner in which they beat the Cougars at home. Utah has been more consistent this season so the Horned Frogs get the number two spot. They will have a chance to take the top spot and the conference title with a win over the Utes on November 6th.

3)BYU - The Cougars looked awful. The defense was exposed, and the offense continues to look flat. They were lucky that teams lower in the top 25 lost providing the Cougars with an opportunity to stay relatively high in the polls at #17/18. BYU could have their hands full against the Rebels at home this weekend if their secondary continues to struggle.

4)Air Force - Air Force continues to play good football, and finds ways to win close games. Their only loses of the season came in a dogfight against the Utes, and special teams costing them a win against rival Navy. The Falcons still have some chances this season to make some noise against BYU and TCU in conference. They also only need one more win to become bowl eligible, a big accomplishment for Air Force considering the players they lost last season.

5)New Mexico - The Lobos destroyed the Aztecs, after a gritting loss to BYU. New Mexico rises quickly up the power rankings, and show that they might still be fighting for a bowl birth.

6)Colorado State - The Rams continue their tough stretch of schedule. Coming off loses to TCU and Utah, the Ram now get a break by playing San Diego State, before facing BYU and Air Force the following two weeks. A win over the Aztecs is crucial if the Rams want to be bowl eligible this season.

7)UNLV - The Rebels promising season seems to be going up in smoke. After a 3-1 start, UNLV has gone 0-3 in conference play and are now 3-4 overall. Their schedule now becomes more difficult. They play at BYU, and then return home to host TCU. Two more losses could sink another season for the Rebels.

8)Wyoming - A bye week is the only thing that could have gotten the Pokes out of the bottom spot. The Cowboys look to return to the bottom spot this week as they take on TCU on the road.

9)San Diego State - A 70-7 loss to New Mexico...OUCH!!! Welcome back to the bottom
spot, you earn it Aztecs.

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Week 8 Mountain West Football Power Rankings

All eyes are on the Thursday night game...

BYU and TCU face off Thursday night, as the top three teams start to fight for the conference title. Yet, the Thursday night game might take away from two other interesting Mountain West match-ups. Colorado State and Utah is always a great hard fought football game, and the Air Force vs. UNLV could be the decider for the fourth bowl birth from the conference. This week will go a long way to decide the Mountain West Conference race. Here are the week 8 rankings:

1a) Utah - The Utes make their debut at the top spot in the conference power polls with an impressive win at Wyoming. The Utah's offense didn't show up against Wyoming, and Utah still put up 40 points on the Cowboys.

1b) BYU - The Cougars didn't look good at home against the Lobos. The offense looked half-asleep, and although the defense kept BYU in the game there are were signs of weakness. Good teams have hiccups during the season, for BYU hopefully the New Mexico game was their hiccup. BYU has a chance to make another big statement this Thursday against the Horned Frogs.

3) TCU - The Horned Frogs did what they needed to do to beat Colorado State. This Thursday's game against BYU will be telling of just what the Horned Frogs are made of this season.

4) Air Force - The Falcons struggled in the first half against the Aztecs, but were able to lower the hammer and keep their grip on the fourth spot in the conference.

5) UNLV - The bye week came at a good time for the Rebels. UNLV needed to gather themselves after a tough loss to Colorado State. The Rebels have a big game at home against Air Force. After Air Force the Rebels play at BYU, then back home against TCU. A win over Air Force would give some momentum to UNLV going into their toughest stretch of the season.

6) Colorado State - The California game is the only game that the Rams didn't compete in all season. Colorado State is quietly reestablishing themselves as a force in the Mountain West Conference. The Rams lost a close game at home against TCU, and now try to go into Salt Lake and beat the Utes. Beating the Utes would be a major step forward for the CSU program.

7) New Mexico - The Lobos gave BYU their best shot on Saturday, and were one blow call away from making the game into a nail-biter. The Lobos are still one dimensional, without a real passing threat at quarterback. Yet, the running attack of New Mexico should be enough this weekend against San Diego State.

8) San Diego State - The Aztecs continue to rise above the Cowboys, and are circling their November 1st cellar dweller match-up against Wyoming so they remain the second worst team in the conference.

9) Wyoming - The Cowboys might need to start a hot line they are being beat that bad.

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Week 7 Mountain West Football Power Rankings

BYU hangs onto the top spot, but not by much...

TCU looks like they could pull off an upset against BYU or Utah, but as of week 7 it looks like the Mountain West is a two team race for the championship. Another interesting race will be for the fourth spot in the conference. Air Force, UNLV, Colorado State, and New Mexico all have a chance to compete this year for that spot. The league now enters exclusive conference play, and it will also be interesting to see how this affects the Mountain West Conference's national perception. Here are the week 7 rankings:

1a BYU - BYU has taken a lot of grief for giving up 14 points and a late scoring opportunity to Utah State; however, what people don't talk about is the point that BYU was up 34 points. BYU brought their C level game to Logan and walked away with a win. BYU was vulnerable to falling in the power rankings, but they performed on the field well enough to maintain the top spot.

1b Utah - This week was tough to judge if Utah overtook BYU for the top spot in the conference. Before the week I thought that a win by Utah over Oregon State would qualify them for the top spot. Yet, the Utes got lucky taking advantage of Oregon State chocking at the end of the game. Utah played alright in the first quarter, terrible in the second, third, and fourth quarter, and then played amazing football in the last two and a half minutes. Utah remain close to BYU, but behind them for week 7.

3 TCU - Not a dominate performance by TCU over San Diego State at home. I was expecting the Horned Frogs to lay down the hammer on the Aztecs, but they looked lost and vulnerable throughout the game. TCU let San Diego State hang around the game, and only pulled away late in the game.

4 Air Force - Special teams make the difference in close games. Air Force had two blocked punts that turned into Navy touchdowns. Even after the loss Air Force remains in the fourth spot in the conference. Yet, the Cadets need to improve to maintain this spot for the remainder of the season.

5 Colorado State - A big conference win for Colorado State. Colorado State coming back from being down early was impressive. They did give back the lead in the fourth quarter, but drove the field and got the win. If Colorado State can maintain this momentum they can compete this year for the fourth bowl birth.

6 UNLV - CHOKE!!! UNLV for the second week in a row established an early lead, and was unable to maintain it throughout the game. The Rebels fought back and got the lead back late in the fourth quarter against Colorado State, but didn't finish the game with a win. Over time the Rebels will learn how to finish game, but if the Rebels want to make a bowl they better learn quick.

7 New Mexico - Lobos blow out Wyoming at Wyoming. Impressive! New Mexico has a chance to really make some noise in the conference if they can find a way to go to Provo and get a win.

8 San Diego State - Aztecs hung around against TCU on the road, and by doing so they avoid the bottom spot in the conference.

9 Wyoming - The Pokes are just bad! I like Joe Glenn but...his days are numbered.

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Week 6 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

Big week for Utah and the rest of the conference...

The PAC 10 finally got a win over the Mountain West Conference.  Now the Beavers will try to continue the trend this Thursday in Utah.  I wouldn' t be beating on a win for the Beavers against Utah, but Utah will have a chance this week to make a statement over a nationally recognized Oregon State team.  There is also a big game for Air Force this week as they take on Navy and try to win back the Commander and Chief Trophy.  UNLV will try and rebound against UNLV, and TCU will try to put their loss against Oklahoma behind them with the Aztecs coming to Fort Worth.  It will be interesting to see how national perception of the Mountain West Conference as conference play begins.  Here is the power poll for week 6:

1a) BYU - A good week for a bye.  BYU had some key injuries, and the week off gave the players time to heal.  Especially Pitta who sustained a shoulder injury, and needed some off time.  BYU was also able to move up in the national polls due to positive national press and teams in front of them losing.

1b) Utah - With the Utes playing and BYU off, the Utes had an opportunity to move into the top spot in the league.  Yet, The Utes needed a little bigger win on paper due to the lack of television coverage against Weber State. The score from last weekends win over Weber State doesn't indicate the scope of the victory for the Utes.   The Utes won the game easily; however, to move up in the power rankings how you win is taken into account.  The Utes have a chance to really make a statement against Oregon State this weekend.

3) TCU - Oklahoma embarrassed TCU, and proved that TCU has no offense.  Oklahoma's defense is pretty good, but TCU's offense wasn't able to do anything against the Sooners.  The Horned Frogs made mistakes that weren't influenced by the Sooners defense, and TCU's defense didn't have the power to slow down OU.  TCU is still a step above Air Force, but isn't on the same level as BYU and Utah.

4) Air Force - The bye week came at the right time for Air Force.  The cadets drop a close game at home against the Utes, and needed time to regroup for a big game against Navy.  Navy looks to be a formidable opponent for Air Force after a win over Wake Forest.  Plus, the Commander and Chief Trophy is the most important part of Air Force football.

5) UNLV - The Rebels loss to a Nevada was BIG!  Once again the Rebels start the season with some good wins and they are not able to continue to winning.  UNLV jumped out to an early lead, and then fell apart.  The defense was unable to stop Nevada's offense, and offense wasn't able to keep up in shoot out style football.  Rebels can't afford to loss two conference games this early in the season, and need a win over Colorado State.

6) New Mexico - The Lobos lose their starting quarterback for the year, but it may have really been a blessing for them.  New Mexico is now forced to highlight their talented running backs and move away from spreading the field.  The Lobos only passed for 55 yards.  While this worked against New Mexico State, and probably will work against Wyoming, when the Lobos face superior defenses (BYU + Utah) they are going to pay for being one tooled.

7)Colorado State - Playing California at Cal was a difficult task for the rebuilding Rams.  Yet, the Rams could really take a step forward in the rebuilding process with a win over UNLV this weekend.  The schedule doesn't get easy for CSU after the Rebels playing TCU, and then traveling to Utah.  If the Rams lose this weekend they could be looking at losing four games in a row.

8)San Diego State - They beat Idaho.  Put up the banner, the Aztecs got their win for the year.  "Mission Accomplished!"  The Aztecs will spend this week in the eighth spot before heading back to the bottom spot after playing TCU on the road.

9)Wyoming - Bowling Green  destroying Wyoming at home earns the Cowboys the bottom spot.  Joe Glenn watch has officially started to see how much longer he survives at Wyoming.

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Week 5 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

Mountain West Conference is very good this year...

The Mountain West Conference is arguably the third best conference in college football this season. The SEC and the Big 12 both look very strong, but the PAC-10, Big East, Big 10, and ACC have been exposed this season. The Mountain West Conference has continued to flex its muscle against BCS conference teams, and have three teams that look to deserve a BCS bowl birth. Here are the power rankings for week 5:

1a)BYU - 103-0. The scary thing is the margin of victory in the last two games could have been much higher. BYU might be under ranked at #11. It will be interesting to see what happens to the Cougars in the polls during their bye week.

1b)Utah - Close win over a better than expected Air Force team. Defense only allows Air Force to gain 53 yards on the ground, but the offense gives Air Force great field position to start drives. If Utah can ever stop their half good/half bad football they will be a great team.

1c)TCU - The Horned Frogs could really make a statement this weekend against Oklahoma. A win for TCU would put them in the top spot in the conference, and for the non-BCS teams trying to get a BCS birth.

4a)Air Force - Air Force were a few defensive stops away from beating the Utes. The Cadets didn't put up great numbers, but they took advantage of the opportunities that Utah gave them. The Falcons could trip up one of the top teams, and will be looking to bring back the Commander and Chief Trophy to the academy this year.

4b)UNLV - The Rebels demonstrate that they will be competing for the fourth spot in the conference, and they have the talent to play with any team in the conference. This Rebel team is young, and look for their confidence to increase as the season progresses.

6)Colorado State - Big win by the Rams over Houston. 2-1 is a great start for Colorado State this season, but they enter a tough stretch of schedule(@CAL, UNLV, TCU, @Utah). It is a lot to ask, but a win at California would be great for the conference.

7)New Mexico - The Lobos lost their starting quarterback for the season. Lucky for the Lobos they are facing the New Mexico State Aggies this weekend, and it should be a good week to break in a new quarterback. The pressure will be on New Mexico, they need a win this weekend to try and salvage the season, and they need to continue their dominance against the NMSU Aggies.

8)Wyoming - It doesn't look good for Joe Glenn and the cowboys. Glenn stating after the game that he has no idea who will play quarterback for Wyoming for the rest of the season. Wyoming returns home to try and squeak out a victory over Bowling Green this weekend.

9)San Diego State - The Aztecs have a chance not only to cement their position at the bottom of the conference but gain a strangle hold on the #119 spot in all of college football if they lose at home against Idaho.

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Week 4 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

A Great weekend for the Mountain West Conference...

This was the best regular season weekend in the history of the Mountain West Conference. The conference had four games against PAC-10 teams and swept the weekend. Air Force added a good win at Houston, and the Utes dominated the Aggies. Wyoming avoid an embarrassing loss to North Dakota State, and San Diego State are who we thought they were. Yet, it is clear that the Mountain West Conference has three teams that have BCS potential. Here are this weeks power rankings:

1a)BYU - A 59-0 win over UCLA, WOW! Maybe the most dominating win in BYU history. This game was a blowout, but it could have been a blood bath if BYU didn't pull their starters early in the third quarter. An impressive win by BYU.

1b)Utah - The Utes put together four quarters of football. They beat Utah State 58-10, and demonstrated that they are taking care of the games they need to win. The Utes had many mistakes in the game, and ran up the score by having their starters in fourth quarter. Dominating win by the Utes, but the win does raise some questions about the just how good the Utes will be this season.

1c)TCU - The Horned Frogs have proven that they are at the level of BYU and Utah. The win over Stanford was bigger than the score of 31-14 showed. TCU defense is impressive, and TCU also demonstrated that they are able to move the football against a good defense. In two weeks TCU's real test will come against Oklahoma.

4)Air Force - Zero Passing yards. That was the most blaring stat from the Cadet's victory over the weekend. Houston's rushing defense was suspect going into the game; however, Houston gave up 380 yards to the Falcons in the loss. The Falcons still hold on to the 4th spot in the conference, but the Falcons could make some noise against the Utes this weekend.

5)UNLV - The Rebels shock Arizona State, at Arizona State. It took an amazing one handed touchdown catch, a pinball pass completion in overtime, and a blocked field goal. Still the Rebels are now 2-1 and have set themselves up to compete for the 4th spot in the conference.

6)New Mexico - The Lobos finally show up at home to win a big game. New Mexico's schedule was set up for the Lobos to have a chance for a quick start. They didn't take advantage of the early schedule, but it was an impressive win over Arizona.

7)Colorado State - The Rams have a bye week and fall down the power rankings after impressive wins from the rest of the conference.

8)Wyoming - The pokes are really close to being 0-3. Wyoming had to rally to beat Ohio and North Dakota State(AA). It doesn't look for Wyoming going into Provo this weekend.

9)San Diego State - Awful! The Aztecs are just bad. After a close loss against Notre Dame, SDSU don't even compete against the San Jose State. The Idaho game has to be circled by the Aztecs as possibly the only chance they have to win this season.

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Week 3 Mountain West Conference Power Ranking

After week 2 the landscape of the Mountain West Conference is becoming clearer...

1a) BYU - Lost in the entire controversy is the fact the BYU won the game, and that they were the better team on the field Saturday.  BYU needs to make a statement this weekend against UCLA to stay in the driver seat of the BCS busters.

1b) Utah - Slow start against a bad UNLV team kept the game close in the first half, but the Utes are too good on offense to let the game stay close for long.  Slow start drops Utes to 1b in the power rankings.

3) TCU - The Horned Frogs are nearly moving into the 1c position in the power rankings.  The Horned Frogs have proven that they can score points on offense, and their defense is solid.  The Standford game this weekend will be an excellent chance to see exactly how good TCU is this season.

4) Air Force - The Falcons scored an impressive win over Wyoming over the weekend.  They demonstrated that they can move the ball on the ground.  They also proved that they are playing on another level in comparison to five teams below them in the conference.  It will be interesting to see if the Falcons can pull an upset against one of the top three teams in the conference.

5) Colorado St - They won.  It wasn't pretty, but a win is a win.  CSU maintains there spot in the middle of the conference power rankings.

6) UNLV - Played well in the first half against the Utes, but fell apart in the second half.  Could be a dangerous team that could surprise some teams in conference play; however, they aren't going to be consistently good throughout the year.

7) San Diego St - Dissappointing loss on the road.  The Aztecs had an opportunity to go up two scores late in the game, and choked.  Yet, is anyone surprised that the Aztecs choked?

8) New Mexico - The Lobos have yet to show up this season.  Two winnable home games end with the Lobos being 0-2.  It will be tough for the Lobos to turn the season around.

9) Wyoming  - Awful.

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Week 2 Mountain West Conference Power Rankings

The first power ranking that is based on how teams actually played...

A strange week for the Mountain West Conference. Utah gets a big win over Michigan. BYU and TCU established themselves as the other powers in the conference this season. There isn't a strong fourth team in the conference this year. San Diego State losses to a D-1AA school...again.

1a)Utah - The Utes get the top spot this week after a big road win. The offense did disappear in the second half and they did let Michigan back into the ball game; however, the Utes in the first half were the best Mountain West team that played in week one.

1b)BYU - People are saying that BYU had three great and one terrible quarters. I would argue that they had a great game, and four bad plays. Cougars moved the ball at will against Northern Iowa. Can't afford that many turnovers for the rest of the season if they want to go undefeated.

3)TCU - I am officially pulling the overrated tag off of the Horned Frogs. They are now the third best team in the conference. Getting a big road conference win gives TCU a ton of momentum going into the rest of the season.

4)Air Force - The Falcons beat a bad SUU team. They proved that at least they can score some points after losing Hall and Carney. They will fight the rest of the season to stay at the number four spot in the conference.

5)UNLV - The win over the Aggies was huge for the Rebels. They now have a shot at starting staying positive after a brutal opening schedule.

6)Wyoming - The pokes survive a home game against Ohio...not a good sign for the pokes.

7)Colorado State - They kept the game close in the first half against Colorado. Look for CSU to rise up and compete to be bowl eligible this season.

8)New Mexico - The Lobos use the experience at quarterback to do the same thing, choke. They played without any heart against TCU.

Rock Bottom)San Diego State - The only thing SDSU has going is there is no way for the others schools to kick them out of the conference. To lose to Cal Poly once was bad, but twice...kick them out!

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Week 1/Preseason Mountain West Conference Football Power Ranking

Speculating about teams that have yet to play...
This is the year for the Mountain West Conference to put a team back in a BCS bowl game. BYU and Utah have teams that both have the ability to get into the BCS this season. They also have the ability to set up an undefeated Holy War showdown this season. Before a football is snapped for the 2008 season, here is how the power rankings look for the Mountain West Conference.

1a)BYU - They have the offense to beat any team in the nation, as long as they stay healthy. The defense is loaded with question marks. The secondary is basically new compared to last year. Although their are new players at new positions for BYU's defense, the players coming in this season are better than those who graduated. The schedule opens the door for the Cougars to play in a BCS game this season.

1b)Utah - Utah is also returning key players this season. They also have winnable game this season against a Michigan team that should be down this season. They also play a lower level Oregon State team at home this season. They also get TCU and BYU at home this season, which gives them an advantage over the other teams in the conference. This is Johnson's senior season. If Johnson is going to live up to the hype around him, then Johnson better lead the team to a conference championship and a big bowl game.

3)TCU - OVERRATED!!! Yes, I leave the tag on from last seasons power rankings regarding the Horned Frogs. Once again the national media has overrated what TCU will do this season. They claim that TCU's defense will be the class of the conference. Why? Just like BYU's defense they have a new Defensive line, and basically a new linebacker core. Yeah, I call that unproven and a weakness. Plus a game at Oklahoma should be tough in the middle of the season.

4)Wyoming - This is the bounce back year for the Pokes. I like Joe Glenn, and I think that he has his players ready to excel this season(he better because his job is on the line this season). A successful season for the Pokes would be to make it to a bowl game. Wyoming should start the season 3-0, with the first three games coming at home this season. They will be there with New Mexico and Colorado State fighting for a bowl birth at the end of the season.

5)New Mexico - Porterie returning to start at quarterback for the Lobos. He is 12-4 in games that he starts and finishes for the Lobos. In his third year, he is looking to take the leadership role over for the team. New Mexico will also be able to run the ball on the ground this year, and that will make up for an inexperienced defense; however, Rocky Long will have the defense ready to compete at strong level this season. The first three games of the season are crucial for the success of the Lobos. They start facing TCU, Texas A&M, and Arizona all at home. A quick start will lead to another bowl appearance for the Lobos this season.

6)Colorado St. - It is the start of a new era at Colorado St. It should be an instant improvement for the Rams. The old schemes that the Rams were running didn't match the personnel that they had on the field. The Rams have eight returning starters back, and a strong stable of running backs. Colorado State has the rivalry game against Colorado and a game at Cal; however, they play both BYU and TCU at home. Look for the Rams to bounce back this season and be playing for bowl eligibility.

7)UNLV - This is the year for Mike Sanford to produce and lead the Rebels back to relevance. It doesn't look good for the Rebels. Getting a win against Utah St to open the season is crucial. The next three games are brutal for the Rebels. Playing at Utah and Arizona State, followed by a home game against Iowa State. If the Rebels lose to Utah State, then they will go 0-4 to start the season. That will destroy another season of football at UNLV.

8)Air Force - No Hall, no Carney, no chance. Air Force is returning only three starters from last year's team. Look for this to be a rebuilding year as the team deals with the losses of personnel on the offensive side of the ball.

9)San Diego St - Starting a red shirt freshman is never a good sign; however, starting a red shirt freshman and putting him behind a young offensive line is a way to have a terrible season(or a normal season for SDSU). Another long season as Chuck Long tries to establish a program at San Diego St.

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