The Big Podcast Episode 35: 2009 College Football Bowl Preview

Predicting every single college football bowl game...

Here is an outline of what hosts Jake Stowell and Mark Welling talk about in this week's podcast.

• Predicting the winner of every single college football bowl game.
• Give an insight about each of the bowl games.
• Both Mark and Jake pick five teams they feel are locks to win their bowl games.
• Enjoy the variety of different, and absurd bowl names.
• Give three bowl games that are must-watch.
• There are two BCS bowl games which will be blowout this year, and two look to be instant classics. Which are which?
• Even with five undefeated teams Texas vs. Alabama does seem like the right national championship game.

Download here (Right click and save as) or listen with the player below.

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Week 13 Mountain West Football Predictions

"The Game" is finally here...

Last week was another rough week for Scott. Here are the results/standings:

Mark[Last Week 7-1(.875) 74-35(.678) Head-To-Head 5-4-2]
Scott[Last Week 3-5(.375) 69-40(.633) Head-To-Head 4-5-2]

The Holy War is here and it should be a classic. Here are the predictions:

The Big Podcast GAME OF THE WEEK
#14 BYU @ #7 Utah 4PM MT The Mtn

This game is coming down to two major factors. First, can the Utah defense slow down the Cougars' offense? When Utah faced two offenses that were similar to BYU they gave up huge yardage. 405 yards of total offense to Oregon State, and 416 yard to TCU. Utah was able to give up this amount of yardage because neither Oregon State or TCU was able to put the game away. BYU's offense has proven that they can move the ball and put the ball in the end zone. Second, can BYU's defense stop Utah's offense? BYU has really struggled to stop even an average passing attack. Brian Johnson is the key to beating BYU, if Brian Johnson is able to throw the ball Utah should win the game. The game should be another nail-biter, and I think it will be high scoring.

BYU 48 Utah 42 OT

BYU 33 Utah 31

Colorado State @ Wyoming 12PM MT The Mtn

According to "The Mtn" this is the other great rivalry in the Mountain West Conference. Yet, like many things that "The Mtn" reports it just isn't true. There are better games played in the conference every year. This year's edition shouldn't be a real contest.

Colorado State 35 Wyoming 17

Colorado State 31 Wyoming 20

Air Force @ #16 TCU 1:30PM MT

With all of the hype that the BYU vs Utah game is getting(and rightfully so), this game is failing through the cracks. This should be a very good game. Air Force could give TCU problems with their option attack. Yet, playing at home should give the Horned Frogs a big boost.

TCU 17 Air Force 10

TCU 24 Air Force 13

UNLV @ San Diego State 6PM MT

Is this game over yet? The Rebels become bowl eligible in a snooze-fest.

UNLV 56 San Diego State 14

UNLV 42 San Diego State 28

Michigan @ #10 Ohio State 10AM MT ABCHD

I smell an upset. Michigan has had a terrible season; however, Michigan has been in the majority of the games they played this year. The rivalry will make this game a winnable game for the Wolverines, and Ohio State is looking too far ahead to how the BCS is going to break down.

Michigan 24 Ohio State 21

Ohio State 38 Michigan 17

#15 Michigan State @ #8 Penn State 1:30PM MT ABCHD

This is the game that will decide the champion of the Big Ten, and it should be very good. The game will feature two talented running backs. Michigan State struggled to move the ball on the ground against a good Ohio State defense, and Penn State's defense is better. Penn State wins the conference at home.

Penn State 35 Michigan State 14

Penn State 27 Michigan State 21

#9 Boise State @ Nevada 2PM MT ESPN2HD

Boise State has not played anyone this entire season! The Broncos beat the Oregon Ducks largely because the Ducks were playing their third string quarterback due to injuries. Nevada has a very good offense, and two running backs that have over 1,000 yards. Boise State will run into trouble against the Wolf Pack.

Nevada 42 Boise State 31

Boise State 42 Nevada 31

#2 Texas Tech @ #5 Oklahoma 6PM MT ABCHD

This game will be awesome. The two offenses in this game should put up some serious numbers. Sam Bradford's numbers this year are amazing, 3,406 yards and 38 Touch downs; however, Bradford's numbers are nothing in comparison to Graham Harrell's 4,077 yards and 36 touchdowns. This game should come down to whichever offense has the ball last in the game. Oklahoma will have enough in its tank to defeat Texas Tech.

Oklahoma 56 Texas Tech 49

Oklahoma 38 Texas Tech 35

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Week 12 Mountain West Football Predictions

This week will be big for the middle of the Mountain West Conference...

Scott turns in the first sub-.500 week of predictions. This allowed me to pull even in the Head-to-Head standings, and pull ahead in the overall standings. Here are the results/standings:

Mark[Last Week 6-3(.667) 67-34(.663) Head-To-Head 4-4-2]
Scott[Last Week 4-5(.444) 66-35(.653) Head-To-Head 4-4-2]

Not many good match-ups this week. BYU and Utah try not to look ahead to the Holy War next week. Here are the prediction:

Wyoming @ UNLV 7PM MT CBSC

Wyoming beat Tennessee, but they weren't dominate. UNLV is better than their record. The Rebels will take care of the Cowboys this week.

UNLV 24 Wyoming 13

Wyoming shocked the world last week going into Knoxville and pulling the upset against Tennessee. Unfortunately they are going to get lost in the lights in Las Vegas and lose this game. It hard to believe that Wyoming still has a chance to become bowl eligible…AMAZING! The same goes for UNLV…

UNLV 28 Wyoming 13

New Mexico @ Colorado State 12PM MT The Mtn

Colorado State has far more to play for in this game. New Mexico is the last real challenge that the Rams have between them and becoming bowl eligible. New Mexico continues to dominate the games on the ground, and use the defense to control the game clock. Teams that try to use the clock to win games have trouble on the road.

Colorado State 31 New Mexico 17

CSU got handled last week by Air Force and it will be interesting to see what the Rams’ offense can do against New Mexico. One thing going for Colorado State is that New Mexico struggles putting up points. Rodney Ferguson does just enough to get the Lobos the W.

New Mexico 17 Colorado State 14

The Big Podcast GAME OF THE WEEK
#17 BYU @ AFA 1:30PM MT CBSC

This game is going to surprise a lot of people, because BYU is going to win and win big. Why? Air Force doesn't have the time to game plan to exploit holes in their opponents defense. The Cadets have too much training at this time of year, and they will just stick with the triple option. The triple option plays into the strength of the BYU defense, and Air Force's defense will have a hard time stopping the BYU offensive attack.

BYU 42 Air Force 13

If there is one team that BYU always seems to handle it is Air Force. For whatever reason, BYU knows how to stop the Falcons’ option attack. BYU still have something to play for and something to prove. While AFA doesn’t though much, expect them to take multiple shots deep against a pretty bad secondary.

BYU 31 Air Force 21

#7 Utah @ San Diego State 6PM MT The Mtn

Get ready for the Holy War, because this should just be a scrimmage for the Utes.

Utah 49 San Diego State 10

Utah has the luxury of a cupcake game before their showdown with the BYU on Nov. 22. The only problem Utah will face is what this game will do to their BCS standing.

Utah 35 San Diego State 10

Utah State @ Louisiana Tech 12:30PM MT

Louisiana Tech isn't the push over that they have been over the past few years. They are 5-4 and third in the WAC. The Bulldogs went to San Jose State and shut them out, a very impressive accomplishment! The Aggies got beat up at Boise State, and have to travel again to Louisiana. This would be a big win for the Aggies; however, it is just too much travel and competition for Utah State to handle. Bulldogs win Cajun style!

Louisiana Tech 24 Utah State 16

This is a very winnable game for the Aggies, unfortunately this is a game they have lost in the past. Despite their record, USU appears to have improved as the season has progressed. Believe it or not, but USU could finish the season right in the middle of the WAC standings.

Utah State 27 Louisiana Tech 24

#16 North Carolina @ Maryland 1:30PM MT ABC

OVERRATED!!! Both teams are overrated in this game. The ACC is just bad, and the national media continues to try and sell the tough games the North Carolina has played. If BYU, Utah, or TCU were in the ACC all of them would be undefeated this year. Maryland will beat the Tar Heels and show the mediocrity of the conference.

Maryland 28 North Carolina 17

Butch Davis has got the Tar Heels believing that they can win the ACC. Six points is the difference between 7-2 and 9-0. Of Maryland’s three losses, one was against Middle Tennessee State (!!!!) and the other came against Virginia. What Maryland team is going to show up? The one that lost by 10 to Middle Tenn. State, or the one that shutout Wake Forest? Either way, UNC wins this game.

North Carolina 21 Maryland 7

California @ Oregon State 1:30PM MT ABC

California has struggled all season to score points. Oregon State has looked good at home, and will win the game.

Oregon State 28 Cal 14

Who would have ever thought that Oregon State would control their own destiny in the Pac 10? As much talk as there is about USC playing for the national championship, there is no way the BCS would let them into that game if Oregon State wins the Pac 10. That is still a ways away for OSU. Cal is a tough football team and could potentially give OSU a lot of problems. I wouldn’t be surprised if Utah fans are more interested in this game instead of the SDSU game this weekend.

Cal 24 Oregon State 17

Boston College @ #19 Florida State 6PM MT ABCHD

Terrible conference, and terrible game. Not only is the ACC bad, but their games are BORING to watch! Florida State wins a snore fest! (Although, a brawl cause Bobby B to suspend his receiving core! Off the field issue at Florida State...yet another shocker!)

Florida State 24 Boston College 10

Florida State is a long way from becoming the Florida State team that dominated the 1990s, but they are getting back on track. They have a very competitive team, and as mediocre the ACC has been this year, it is enough to play for the conference championship. A total of 8 teams are still in contention to win the ACC. Florida State’s offense will be going up against a very good Boston College defense. BC’s offense didn’t look all that impressive against Notre Dame, which could be disastrous against a fast, hard nosed defense like the Seminoles.

Florida State 21 Boston College 14

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Week 11 Mountain West Conference Football Predictions

Another week of selecting every Mountain West Conference Football game...

Week 10 brought many exciting football games, but it also brought a tie-breaking win for Scott in the Head-To-Head predictions. Here are the results/overall standings:

Mark[Last Week 5-4(.555) 61-31(.663) Head-To-Head 3-4-2]
Scott[Last Week 5-4(.555) 62-30(.673) Head-To-Head 4-3-2]

This week brings the biggest game in Mountain West Conference history. It is also another quality week of football in the Big 12. Here are the predictions for week 11:

#12 TCU @ #8 Utah 6PM MT CBSC

This will be the biggest game in conference history and on paper it looks to be very good. TCU has been on a tear since embarrassing BYU at home. The Horned Frogs aren't going to be at home this Thursday and that is going to make a huge difference in the game. Utah has played lights out at home this season, and that will really help Brian Johnson to have a good game which is essential to Utah winning the game. The game will be close, but Utah will beat TCU using a late field goal.

Utah 24 TCU 21

Utah has a very good defense, while their offense is still looking for consistency. If they play like they did last week against New Mexico this could get out of hand. But Utah seems to play their best in the big games and I imagine that this one will go down to the wire. Everyone knows about TCU’s top ranked defense, but everyone seems to forget about their offense. TCU is second in the conference in total offense and first in points scored. This should live up to all the hype.

TCU 24 Utah 21

Wyoming @ Tennessee 11AM MT ESPN360

Poor Joe Glenn. A week after getting a much needed conference win the Cowboys have to fly to Tennessee to get their butts kicked.

Tennessee 49 Wyoming 7

It may be unfortunate that this game wasn’t played earlier in the year for Tennessee. The Vols are not the power they once were and head coach Fulmer is headed out the door. I expect Tennessee to play hard and dominate this game. Wyoming is looking to build on their domination of SDSU, but lets be honest…this isn’t going to be pretty.

Tennessee 35 Wyoming 10

San Diego State @ #15 BYU 12PM MT The Mtn

New Mexico put 70 points up on the Aztec defense. BYU very well could put up 100 points. BYU's defense has not looked good since the TCU game, but the defense should be able to shut down a poor Aztec offense. If BYU doesn't win and win big it is time to hit the panic button if you are a BYU fan; however, I don't see BYU having any trouble this weekend.

BYU 63 San Diego State 10

This game couldn’t come at a better time for BYU. They need to get healthy on the defensive side of the ball before they end the season on the road against Air Force and Utah. SDSU is not good at all. The only bright spot for the Aztecs is that BYU’s 4th string cornerback (Steven Thomas) is getting quite a bit of playing time. BYU’s pass defense is just plain awful. The difference between BYU’s defense at the beginning of the year and now is turnovers. If SDSU can hold on to the ball they should be able to score a few points. The problem for SDSU is that BYU’s offense will be able to score at will against them.

BYU 49 San Diego State 28

Colorado State @ Air Force 4PM MT The Mtn

This is a big game for both schools in Colorado. The Falcons have only the single hard fought conference loss to Utah, and they have held off the fatigue that Air Force teams of the past have suffered as the college football team progresses. This should be a very close game, but Colorado State match-up well with Air Force.

Colorado State 31 Air Force 21

This game will determine how far CSU has come this year. CSU still has a lot to play for this year. They need 2 more wins to become bowl eligible. If Air Force looks past the Rams at their last two games against BYU and TCU then CSU could steal on against the Falcons. CSU has had trouble stopping the run and everyone knows that Air Force is going to run over 80% of the time on offense.

Air Force 27 Colorado State 17

New Mexico @ UNLV 8PM MT The Mtn

UNLV's loss to TCU was the first game that the Rebels just didn't compete in all season. The Rebels have played well all season, but haven't found a way to win games. New Mexico has a tough defense that controlled Utah at home, but New Mexico won't have the offensive weapons to take advantages of the holes in the UNLV defense.

UNLV 28 New Mexico 13

UNLV continues to confuse most football fans. At times they look like they have finally put things together, and then at times they look like the UNLV of the past. Both UNLV and New Mexico need to win out in order to become bowl eligible, so they definitely have a lot to play for. If New Mexico’s defense plays like they did last week against Utah then they have a very good chance at winning this game. Both teams love their big running backs and the power running game. How healthy is Omar Clayton? Is this the game that UNLV finally pulls out in the 4th quarter? The winner keeps those bowl hopes alive…it should come down to the wire.

New Mexico 21 UNLV 17

Utah State @ #10 Boise State 12 PM MT ESPN360

This is the best time for the Aggies to go to Boise and hope to compete against the Broncos. Utah State had a great home stand facing Fresno State and Hawaii at home. A 58 yard field goal kept Utah State from going 2-0. Boise State hasn't lost a conference game at home since joining the conference. The Broncos will win this game, but Utah State will keep it close.

Boise State 24 Utah State 16

USU has not been able to get any momentum going through out the season. Coming off their first win of the year the Aggies went up against #8 (at the time) BYU. What is USU’s reward for beating Hawaii last week…only the #10 Boise State Broncos. I’m not sure how good this Boise State team is…and I’m not convinced that they are BCS worthy (not sure if any of the non BCS teams are). Utah State could solve this problem if they somehow beat BSU. They need to force some turnovers and have a huge day from Borel. The Aggies are playing their best football of the season and should be playing with some confidence. I just don’t think that USU has enough fire power to beat BSU.

Boise State 34 Utah State 17

#1 Alabama @ #16 LSU 1:30PM MT CBS

Nick Saban returns to LSU to take on his old team. Alabama has looked dominate this season, and Alabama is the last remaining unbeaten team in the conference. This game against LSU appears to be the last hurdle for them to cleat to get to the national championship game before the SEC title game(I say "appears" but really every game in the SEC is a tough game). Alabama has proven that they can win on the road, and LSU has looked far from dominating at home. Alabama will take care of business again this weekend.

Alabama 35 LSU 17

Which LSU team is going to show up this week? LSU is supposed to be anchored by their defense, but the last two games they played against ranked opponents they are allowing 51 points/game. They have to find a way to contain Alabama’s rushing attack on defense and somehow find a way to score on offense. Alabama’s defense is not going to give up a lot of yards. LSU needs to create turnovers and create favorable field position with their special teams. Alabama is more opportunistic than “high powered”. They force you to make mistakes and then convert those mistakes into points. I’m not sold on Bama as the #1 team in the country. The SEC is not as good as everyone thinks it is. If LSU were to lose this game, it is possible that only 3 SEC teams would be ranked.

LSU 24 Alabama 21

#9 Oklahoma State @ #2 Texas Tech 6PM MT ABCHD

Texas Tech gets a break by having this game at home. It will be hard for the Red Raiders to get up for two big games in a row, and Oklahoma State has just the singular loss to Texas. This game is going to be a shootout and it will come down to who has the football last at the end of the game.

Oklahoma State 49 Texas Tech 42

If anyone missed last week’s classic between Texas and Texas Tech, this week’s match up between Oklahoma State and Texas Tech should offer similar results. Right now, the difference between these two teams is that Tech completed their last second pass to score a touchdown to beat Texas, and OSU did not. Both teams have game breaking WRs and exceptional QBs. This should be very exciting…I expect that whoever has the ball last is going to win.

Oklahoma State 31 Texas Tech 28

#11 Ohio State @ #24 Northwestern 10AM MT ESPN2HD

How do Big Ten teams continue to crack into the top 25? Northwestern isn't going to hang around very long in this football game.

Ohio State 31 Northwestern 10

Last week Northwestern beat Minnesota without their starting QB and RB. Both are going to need to play if they want to have a shot against the Buckeyes. Despite their two losses, OSU remains the most talented team in the Big 10 and they out man Northwestern at every position. Playing on the road in Evanston shouldn’t be a problem for OSU because Northwestern only manages to get ~30k fans for each home game (half of which are the other team’s fans). NW may put up a fight early, but it won’t take long for OSU to take control of this game.

Ohio State 31 Northwestern 17

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Week 10 Mountain West Conference Football Predictions

A sleep deprived edition of picks of every Mountain West Football game...

Scott was perfect last week with his picks. Yet, just like Penn State, and Texas(the two games that put him over the top last week) it literally came down to two Hail-Marys at the end of the game. This week should be interesting as the top three teams in the conference will have tough opponents that traditionally play them well. Utah and TCU are trying to avoid any slip ups before their showdown next Thursday. Here are the results from last week:

Mark[Last Week 7-2(.778) Overall 56-27(.674) Head-To-Head 3-3-2]
Scott[Last Week 9-0(1.000) Overall 57-26(.686) Head-To-Head 3-3-2]

This week should be interesting I am making my picks on about two hours of sleep, thanks to trying to help Madsen win a trip to the Dominican Republic(more detail will come on the podcast). No excuses as I look to rebound like BYU this week and take back the lead from Scott. Here are the week 10 picks:

Air Force @ Army 10AM MT ESPNU

Army won't give Air Force problems.

Air Force 31 Army 17

Air Force is rolling right now. Army has put together a decent 4 game stretch against the likes of Tulane, Easter Michigan, Buffalo, and La Tech. Air Force just might be the toughest team on Army’s schedule. There have only been 85 pass attempts between the two starting QBs. Houston’s Case Keenum has attempted 374 passes alone. Run, run, run, run, and run. Air Force’s defense is much better than Army’s.

Air Force 27 Army 14

San Diego State @ Wyoming 12PM MT The Mtn.

WOW! Set your TIVO for this barn burner. This might be the worst match-up in all of college football this season. San Diego State seems to have shown more in the past weeks than the Wyoming. The better question than who is going to win this game, is when will the Pokes fire Joe Glenn?

San Diego State 28 Wyoming 14 (Glenn fired Nov 23rd)

Poor SDSU, poor Wyoming. Does anyone else get sick to their stomachs thinking about this game? Actually I think that SDSU is going to have a breakout game. Their offense seems to be playing at their highest level this season. Wyoming moved the ball pretty effectively in the first half against TCU last week. When looking at each team, SDSU seems to be improving, while Wyoming is…well…terrible is putting it lightly.

San Diego State 24 Wyoming 10

#20 BYU @ Colorado State 4PM MT The Mtn.

This looks to be a tough game for BYU on the road. BYU stepped up at home with their backs against the wall and got a big win. BYU is ready to explode on offense if Anae will call the right plays, and he should do it this week against Colorado State.

BYU 42 Colorado State 13

Everyone is expecting this game to be close. CSU always plays BYU tough in Fort Collins. We know BYU’s offense can score points, we also know that BYU’s defense can stop the local high school powder puff team. At the end of the day, I think BYU can outscore CSU. I am really impressed at how CSU is playing right now. They have a very good chance at becoming bowl eligible, which would be huge. It is tough winning games against better teams when your defense gives up 31 points a game. When it comes down to it, Colorado State’s defense won’t be able to stop BYU when they need to.

BYU 24 Colorado State 21

#10 Utah @ New Mexico 7:30PM MT The Mtn.

New Mexico could be trouble for Utah, if they had a passing game, but they don't. Utah will struggle to move the ball against the Lobos defense, but will have great field position and will wear down the Lobos as the game progresses.

Utah 38 New Mexico 7

If there is one team on Utah’s schedule that consistently gives Utah problems, it is New Mexico. Utah is 2-4 against the Lobos over the past 6 years. Rocky Long will have his team ready for the Utes and I am sure the Whittingham will have his team ready to play too. Utah has a knack of winning very close games. This game should go down to the wire.

Utah 31 New Mexico 27

#13 TCU @ UNLV 6PM MT Versus

UNLV has been in every conference game they played this season. This should be a good shot for the Rebels to pull of an upset as TCU will be looking ahead to Utah. The problem for UNLV is they are a poor man's Utah. They run basically the same scheme on offense, and TCU will be ready to defend it.

TCU 21 UNLV 13

I expect UNLV to have a huge letdown this week. It is no secret that teams get up to play against BYU. UNLV definitely has talent, but their defense has some major holes. And to say the TCU’s defense is better than BYU’s is a huge understatement. UNLV is going to struggle with the speed and athleticism of TCU. If this game is close, I would suspect that TCU is looking forward to their game against Utah next Thursday.

TCU 35 UNLV 13

Hawaii @ Utah State 1PM MT ESPN360

Aggies don't play well after close losses. Utah State has the talent to compete, but won't have the leadership to recover from a heart-breaking loss.

Hawaii 31 Utah State 16

How is Utah State going to respond to last week’s heart wrenching loss to Fresno State? After a loss like that, Brent Guy has to get his team to believe that they can win, which is going to be pretty tough. Everything seems to going against the Aggies. Unfortunately I think they lose another close game this weekend.

Hawaii 24 Utah State 21

#8 Florida @ #6 Georgia 1:30 PM MT CBS

Those Dawgs will run! Georgia has quietly played themselves back into the top team in the country, and will be ready for Florida. Don't expect Florida to surprise Georgia at home.

Georgia 31 Florida 24

Last year’s Florida vs. Georgia game was one of my favorites all year. Nothing like two teams that hate each other doing battle. This is one game that I don’t think Tim Tebow can carry the Gators. Although it is tough picking against a team that is scoring 50+ points/game and only allowing 11/game since losing to Mississippi. Both teams are solid, but I think Georgia will be able to establish a ground attack and control the clock, keeping Florida’s offense off the field.

Georgia 27 Florida 24

The Big Podcast: GAME OF THE WEEK
#1 Texas @ #7 Texas Tech 6PM MT ABCHD

Texas is ready for this game, and Texas Tech has holes in their team. Texas will win this game big.

Texas 42 Texas Tech 21

Will it ever stop for Texas? Four straight weeks playing a top ten team! Up until now the Longhorns have proven that they deserve the top spot in the polls. I think this is the week it catches up to them. As usual Texas Tech played a cupcake schedule (two teams from D-II) and they put up a ton of points against everyone they play. The Red Raiders always seem to be overrated and untested but you can throw all that out in a game like this (I don’t want to call it a rivalry game because Texas’ rivals are Oklahoma and A&M). I like this upset because it is very hard to beat very good teams week after week, and Texas is going to come up just a little short in this one.

Texas Tech 49 Texas 44

#18 Tulsa @ Arkansas 12PM MT ESPN360

Who has Tulsa played this season? NOBODY! This Tulsa team hasn't faced a top defense the entire season. Arkansas isn't very good, but they are good enough to expose Tulsa at home.

Arkansas 28 Tulsa 17

There are two teams that no one is talking about…Ball State and Tulsa, two teams that could potentially play in a BCS game (not going to happen). Tulsa boasts the top offense in the country. They score 55 and gain over 600 yards of offense each week (important to note that the best team they have faced so far has been New Mexico). Arkansas is rebuilding and is not a very good football team right now. The BCS is praying that Arkansas somehow pulls off the upset, but Tulsa’s offensive scheme will be too much for the Razorbacks. Arkansas won’t be able to score enough points to make this game interesting.

Tulsa 35 Arkansas 17

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Week 9 Mountain West Conference Football Predictions

Utah has a bye, and BYU tries to recover in week 9...

Just like the BYU Cougars last week I wasn't on my game picking. Scott came away with a narrow victory thanks to Air Force coming back and beating UNLV by a single point. Here are the results/standings:

Mark [Last Week 5-3(.625) Overall 49-25(.662) Head-To-Head 3-2-2]
Scott [Last Week 6-2(.750) Overall 48-26(.648) Head-To-Head 2-3-2]

The Air Force/New Mexico game should help shape if the Falcons can hold up as the season is winding down. BYU also needs to recover or else they could get punked at home by the Rebels. Here are the prediction for week 9:

UNLV @ #21 BYU 12PM MT The Mtn

BYU got there butts kicked, but they are very lucky to be getting UNLV at this point in the season. UNLV is coming off of two weeks of tough fought losses, and now they are looking to try and prepare to play at Provo this weekend and host TCU the next. UNLV has a good running back, and receivers that can test BYU's weak secondary; however, playing at home will give BYU's defense a boast and the offense energy.

BYU 42 UNLV 21

How does BYU respond to last week’s beat down? Bronco stated at halftime of the TCU game that we would learn a lot about the BYU football team in the second half of the game. Well, we learned that the BYU defense is not as good as a lot of people thought, the offense depends WAY too much on Collie, and that the coaching staff got out coached. As good as Collie and Hall are, the most important player for BYU is Harvey Unga, they need to get him the ball. UNLV has a chance to turn their season. After a 3-1 start, they have dropped three in a row. Clayton presents a huge challenge for the BYU defense. If the Cougars can’t get pressure on Clayton, he will shred the BYU secondary apart. I expect UNLV to pound the ball early with Summers and look to expose the BYU secondary on 3rd down.

BYU 31 UNLV 21

New Mexico @ Air Force 6PM MT (Thursday) Versus

If New Mexico wants to compete for a bowl birth this is a must win game. Air Force is looking to finish strong this season, something that the Cadets have failed to do in the past. This game should be a low scoring slug fest with both teams relying on strong ground attacks. Air Force should be able to find a way to win at home.

Air Force 17 New Mexico 14

New Mexico is playing pretty good football right now. They have an opportunity to mix things up in the conference. They rely heavily on their rushing attack and defense. Ther is no hiding what Air Force likes to do. To sum things up, AFA’s QB Shea Smith has only ATTEMPTED 50 passes all year. The offense averages 300 yards rushing each game. They have 7 players who have rushed for 184 yards or more. Air Force grinds this one out on the ground.

Air Force 28 New Mexico 14

Wyoming @ #14 TCU 4PM MT The Mtn

Joe Glenn might just start the game by giving double barrels to Gary Patterson and the Horned Frogs, because they are going to get beat silly. It might be interesting to see if the Cowboys get the ball past midfield.

TCU 38 Wyoming 0

TCU admitted that they had BYU circled on their calendar ever since they lost to the Cougars last year in Provo. Do they have a let down game now? Yes and No. I don’t think TCU is as good of a football team as they were against BYU. They executed everything they did to perfection last week. So in terms of their level of play, this will be a down week. But TCU is still a very good football team and deserves their #14 ranking…oh yeah, and they play Wyoming. Poor Cowboys might be shutout again. The Cowboys only score 9 points/game. They just might want to cancel the rest of the season and kick it in Dallas for the winter. I’m sure most players would love that rather than spending their time in Laramie.

TCU 27 Wyoming 3

Colorado State @ San Diego State 7:30PM MT The Mtn

Oh Aztecs how can you shame yourself more? I am sure we will find out this weekend against Colorado State.

Colorado State 35 San Diego State 10

CSU hung around for 2 quarters against Utah last week. CSU is not going to score a ton of points, but their defense might hold SDSU to only 7 points. Who would have thought at the beginning of the year that CSU could get bowl eligible? Including this game, they have 4 winnable games on their schedule. SDSU lost by 63 points to New Mexico. The Aztecs are in falling apart. Where would SDSU and USU be without Idaho???

Colorado State 24 San Diego State 10

Fresno State @ Utah State 1PM MT ESPN360

Fresno State isn't as good as people thought they were, but Utah State isn't as good as we thought they were at the beginning of the season. I have no reasoning to base this one, but I think that the Aggies are going to keep this game close. I don't think they will pull a big upset at home. Fresno State's running game is too good for the Aggies to stay in the game late.

Fresno State 21 Utah State 13

Speaking of Utah State, the Aggies get an underachieving Bulldog team at home. Utah State can’t afford to fall behind early. Their only shot at keeping it close is to come out and establish themselves in the first quarter. No team plays with confidence when they are fighting to get out of a 21 point deficit. Once again, they need to find a way to play with a high level of emotion, like they were in the 4th quarter against BYU. It seems as if the team was feeding off the energy of the crowd. The Aggies may keep it close, but the bottom line is that they just aren’t good enough to compete for 60 minutes.

Fresno State 38 Utah State 14

The Big Podcast GAME OF THE WEEK
#6 Oklahoma State @ #1 Texas 1:30 PM MT ABC

This should be a very good game. Texas proved that they are able to take care of business now that they have the top spot with a big win over Missouri. Oklahoma State must go to Texas for there shot at the Longhorns. Oklahoma State has proven that they can win on the road beating Missouri on the road. Oklahoma State has a very good defense that gave Chase Daniels fits, but so did the Longhorn's defense last week. Oklahoma has the tools for beating Texas and they will take the Longhorns by surprise.

Oklahoma State 31 Texas 28

Texas is the best team in college football, at least though the first 8 weeks of the season. Texas’ defense has been good, but not great. The reason they are winning all of their games is that Colt McCoy and the offense simply outscore the opponent. Eventually they will need their defense to win a game for them (although you could argue that they did so last week despite giving up 31 points to Missouri). Probably the biggest surprise of the season has been the Oklahoma State Cowboys. They score a ton of points. Unlike Oklahoma and Missouri, they have a very very good rushing attack. In addition to that, their QB Zac Robinson has grown into a man this year. This game is going to be a nail biter and look for Colt McCoy to lead the Longhorns on a game winning drive late in the 4th quarter.

Texas 41 Oklahoma State 35

#7 Georgia @ #13 LSU 1:30PM MT CBS

Georgia is looking better after the slaughter that Alabama laid on them. LSU is still trying to recover from Florida exposing them two weeks ago. There won't be any officials tackling Georgia this weekend for the Tigers.

Georgia 28 LSU 17

Most defenses in the SEC are monsters, while most offenses are below average. Georgia is one of the few teams with a very good offense. LSU is still struggling to find their identity with a redshirt freshman at the QB position. I expect Georgia’s defense to limit what LSU can do on the other side of the ball. Is it possible that the Bulldogs are looking past the defending national champions to next week’s showdown against Tim Tebow and the Florida Gators? This game is much closer than it should be.

Georgia 17 LSU 14

#3 Penn State @ #9 Ohio State 6PM MT ABC

Ohio State is starting to look like the team that was suppose to compete with USC on the road instead of getting destroyed like the Trojans. This game could go a long ways in determining who will win the Big 10. Penn State after a slow start put away Michigan at home. Yet, so far this season Penn State has played all of their big games at home. Ohio State on the road is going to be when Penn State will trip up.

Ohio State 31 Penn State 24

This is the biggest game of the year in the Big Ten. This is not the same OSU team that lost to OSU at the beginning of the season. Terrelle Pryor has proven that he can lead this Buckeye team to victory. He is still a raw passer, but can get it done with his feet. Having Beanie Wells back is a huge plus for OSU. Penn State looks legit. They have a very proficient offense along with a strong defense. They are the only team in college with both a top ten offense and defense. I don’t know how Paterno does it, I don’t even think Joe remembers how, but they have a great football team in Happy Valley.

Penn State 24 Ohio State 17

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Week 8 Mountain West Conference Predictions

After a bye week Scott and I take over the predictions from Ashley...

Ashley took over the predictions from Scott and I last week and ended up with a 6-3(.667) record. Not a bad week of picks from Ashley. The overall standings still remain the same between Scott and I from last week:

Mark[Overall 44-22(.667) Head-to-Head 3-1-2]
Scott[Overall 42-24(.6360 Head-to-Head 1-3-2]

This weekend is filled with a lot of top games. Be sure to have the popcorn ready, because it looks to be good. Here are the week 8 predictions starting with the game of the week:

The Big Podcast GAME OF THE WEEK
#9 BYU @ #24 TCU (Thursday) 6PM MT Versus

This is a match up between BYU's offense against the Horned Frogs' defense. The Horned Frogs' defense has been strong the entire season, except when they faced Oklahoma's high powered offense. BYU's offense has struggled in the last seven quarters, and BYU will need a quick start if they hope to beat TCU in Fort Worth. What no one is talking about is the match up between the Offense of TCU and BYU's defense. TCU is not a passing team, and runs a similar option style offense to New Mexico. BYU's defense will be able to keep TCU's offense off the field, and that will be the key to BYU's victory.

BYU 35 TCU 17

TCU has a monster D and is going up against a very good BYU offense. BYU has struggled offensively the past two games, and is looking to rebound. They definitely have the potential to be very explosive. The key match up in this game is TCU’s defensive line against BYU’s offensive line…it could be an epic battle of the big uglies. TCU’s offense is very good at controlling the game on the ground. They hold on to the ball about 13 minutes more than their opponents. BYU’s bend but don’t break defense has been good enough to keep teams from scoring. TCU already has a hard time scoring.

BYU 24 TCU 13

Colorado State @ #14 Utah 12PM MT The Mtn

Utah continues to struggle to put together complete football games. On paper Utah should have no problems with Colorado State at home. Yet, historically Colorado State plays Utah tough every season. Colorado State is improved from last season, but won't have the fire power to hand with Utah. Even if Utah plays a C level game they win big.

Utah 38 Colorado State 13

What has happened to Brian Johnson? Utah’s offense has not looked very good for a while now and CSU has a very good defense. Utah has won on the strength of their defense and special teams. The most surprising team this year in the MWC has been Colorado State. They have competed very well. They shot themselves in the foot last week against TCU and had opportunities to win the game. This is going to be tougher game for Utah than most people think…but they pull it off in the end like they have all year.

Utah 21 Colorado State 17

San Diego State @ New Mexico 4PM MT The Mtn

New Mexico was able to control the ball on the ground, on the road, against a good BYU team. They weren't able to put the ball into the end zone against BYU. (Technically they did, but a poor call reversed the Lobo touchdown) The Lobos shouldn't have that problem against San Diego State at home.

New Mexico 24 San Diego State 7

Although New Mexico only scored 3 points against BYU, they showed some signs of life. Their defense looks capable of keeping them in the game. If they can get any big plays from the QBs through the air, they can compete in most games. SDSU has really struggled in most facets of the game.

New Mexico 28 San Diego State 20

Air Force @ UNLV 8PM MT The Mtn

UNLV has scored points early in their last two games against Colorado State and Nevada; however, they have played terrible second quarters and given the leads back. Air Force got off to a slow start against San Diego State last week before taking care of the Aztecs. The extra week that UNLV had to prepare for Air Force will make the difference in the game.

UNLV 28 Air Force 21

UNLV is in a brutal 5 game stretch right now with games against AFA, BYU and TCU after already losing to Nevada and CSU. The question is whether or not this team is going to give up and throw in the towel. They desperately need a win this week to avoid a potential 5 game losing streak. AFA is going to run the ball and control the clock like they do each week. Not sure if UNLV has any answers on defense.

Air Force 35 UNLV 21

Utah State @ Nevada 2PM MT ESPN360

San Jose State humiliated the Aggies last week, and any momentum the Aggies had from their performance against BYU is gone. Playing on the road again this week will be difficult for the Aggies.

Nevada 42 Utah State 13

You would hope that 6 games into the season that Utah State would have found some answers both offensively and defensively. They still don’t have a QB who is ready to lead this team. The USU defense has to hold team under 20 points if they want to give their offense a chance to win. Nevada has the ability to score a lot of points. They are averaging almost 50 points over their last 3 games. If USU can just somehow find that emotion that they played with against BYU, they have a chance to be a decent team.

Nevada 38 Utah State 14

#16 Kansas @ #4 Oklahoma 1:30PM MT ABC

Yes, Oklahoma lost to Texas, but they didn't look bad doing it. Oklahoma is a very good football team, and Kansas has been skating by so far this season. Oklahoma will win big at home.

Oklahoma 52 Kansas 17

Of all the weeks that you want Oklahoma on your schedule, this is definitely not that week. Yes Oklahoma lost last week to Texas, but they played pretty well. I expect them to come out firing on all cylinders. Kansas has been a little inconsistent through their first 6 games. They need a mistake free game from their QB Reesing is they want to keep it close. Reesing is no Colt McCoy, but he is a very good QB. If there is one way to expose Oklahoma, it is through the air. In the end, Oklahoma just has too much firepower.

Oklahoma 42 Kansas 21

#12 Ohio State @ #20 Michigan State 1:30 PM MT ABC

I smell a Ringer! Javon Ringer already has 1,112 yards rushing and 14 touchdowns this season for the Spartans. Ohio State will have problems containing Ringer on the road.

Michigan State 31 Ohio State 17

Can Michigan State avoid their mid season collapse that has plagued them the past 10 years? If there is ever a time to beat OSU, this is the year. OSU is starting a true freshman at QB and their star RB has been hobbled by a bum ankle. Injuries have also started taking a toll on the defense. Yet the Buckeyes somehow find a way to win, while the Spartans always find a way to lose this game. I don’t think Javon Ringer can carry the load much longer for MSU. They need Hoyer to make some plays down field, which he hasn’t been able to do all season. OSU’s defense is their strength and they will be able to do enough to come away with a victory.

Ohio State 21 Michigan State 20

#11 Missouri @ #1 Texas 6PM MT ABC

Chase Daniels and the Tigers' offense looked confused at home against Oklahoma State. Daniels who only had one interception going into last Saturday threw three interceptions against the Cowboys. The problem for Chase Daniels and the Tigers is Texas' defense looks to be better than Oklahoma State. It is also more difficult to play on the road.

Texas 35 Missouri 31

There are no weeks off in the Big 12. After beating the #1 team in the nation last week, Texas plays their second toughest game of the season. Missouri is coming of a disappointing loss last week, proving to the world that Mike Gundy is a man. Someone other than Colt McCoy is going to have to have a big game on the ground to keep Missouri honest. Chase Daniel is about as good as they get at QB. He is completing about 75% of his passes and picks defenses apart. Jeremy Maclin is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Last week, Texas got the breaks they needed, this week the ball bounces Missouri’s way.

Missouri 31 Texas 24

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Week 6 Mountain West Football Predictions

Utah has a chance to make some national noise that will help their BCS hopes this week...

In a week of upsets I was able to squeak out a close win over Scott. Here are the standings and results from last week:

Mark [Last Week 8-3 (.727) Overall 37-19 (.660) Head-to-Head 2-1-2]
Scott [Last Week 7-4 (.636) Overall 36-20 (.642) Head-to-Head 1-2-2]

This week Utah will try and make a statement against Oregon State. The Beavers will have national attention after beating USC, and that works well for the Utes who have played second fiddle to BYU this team as the "other" Mountain West BCS contender. The Aggies and Cougars continue their rivalry this week, and Utah State looks to pull a monumental upset over #8 BYU. Both teams are coming off a bye, and it will be interesting to see if there will be rust showing from either team. Here are this week's predictions:

Oregon State @ # 15 Utah 7PM MT Versus

The Beavers shocked the Trojan's last week. Why? They are a young team at key positions, and those young players are very talented. The problem though with young players is consistency. Playing on a Thursday, on the road, and against a very good Utah team will be more than the Beavers can handle.

Utah 31 Oregon State 13

Oregon State played out of their heads last week against USC. OSU wasn’t a very good team before the USC game (losing to Stanford and getting blown out at Penn State), and I don’t think they will be a very good team after the USC game. Utah on the other hand has a chance to make some noise, and with a little help, move into the top 10 along with BYU (not this week, but sometime in the future). Once again, Utah only plays one half and allows OSU to hang around.

Utah 31 Oregon State 27

#8 BYU @ Utah State 6PM MT KJZZ

This game looks to be lopsided. Yet, it won't be as lopsided as BYU fans are expecting. Especially considering most BYU fans are thinking that the defense will continue the streak of shut outs. Borel is a very mobile quarterback, and that is going to cause some problems for the Cougars. Enough problems for the Cougars that the Aggies will win? No, but it will be enough for the Aggies to put score some points against BYU defense.

BYU 56 Utah State 20

Three shutouts in a row?? Ok, Ok, I really don’t think that this is going to happen, but if it does, you heard it first here. This is an emotional game for the Aggies and they will be pumped up. Unfortunately BYU is better on both sides of the ball and special teams aren’t enough to get USU a win against a top 10 BYU team.

BYU 42 Utah State 0

UNLV @ Colorado State 12PM MT The Mtn

UNLV dropped a game against in-state rival Nevada last weekend. The Revels weren't able to stay in the shoot-out style game with Nevada's high powered offense. Colorado State though doesn't have enough offense to exploit the Rebel's defense.

UNLV 28 Colorado State 10

Let see how UNLV responds to last week’s loss to Nevada. UNLV gave up 400+ yards rushing last week, and CSU is going to try to exploit that. I have been really impressed with how CSU has competed this year and I expect them to grind out a victory at home. CSU’s defense only gave up 21 points to Cal on the road, which is impressive.

Colorado State 21 UNLV 17

Navy @ Air Force 2PM MT Versus

This looks to be a good football game, with two run happy offense. Playing at home give the Falcons the advantage this weekend.

Air Force 24 Navy 17

I love the “armed forces” football games because it really puts thing in perspective. Thanks to all these young men for serving our country! Now back to football…If you love option football, look no further than AFA against Navy. Navy shocked Wake Forrest last week and appears to be better than most people thought they would be. AFA is a very good football team and should easily control this game. The real question is how long the game will last. My guess is 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Air Force 28 Navy 14

San Diego State @ TCU 4 PM MT The Mtn

I would not want to be the Aztecs this weekend. The Horned Frogs didn't put up a fight against the #1 Sooners. TCU should take out their frustrations on San Diego State.

TCU 38 San Diego State 3

TCU got exposed last week against #1 Oklahoma. They will come out wanting to prove the conference that they are still a contender for the conference championship. That doesn’t change the fact that TCU doesn’t have an offense. TCU’s defense scores a touchdown and wins this game for them. SDSU is not a good football team and that is going easy on them.

TCU 27 San Diego State 14

Wyoming @ New Mexico 7:30 PM MT The Mtn

Wyoming is really bad, and they don't have a quarterback. The problem for the Lobos is they don't have a quarterback either. The Lobos were only able to get 55 yards through the air against New Mexico State last weekend. New Mexico's rushing game and defense will carry the Lobos at home this weekend against a bad Wyoming team.

New Mexico 28 Wyoming 13

Losing at home by 29 points to Bowling Green is bad. Wyoming = bad. Can New Mexico’s running attack carry them long enough for their new starting QB to settle in? This week, yes…not sure about the rest of the season.

New Mexico 35 Wyoming 7

#14 Ohio State @ #18 Wisconsin 6 PM MT ABC

Wisconsin was exposed against a down Michigan team, and Ohio State is looking better now that Beanie Wells is back from injury. Both teams are ranked far too high in the polls, but Ohio State will come out on top this weekend.

Ohio State 31 Wisconsin 13

Ohio State is starting a true freshman at QB and Beanie Wells doesn’t look like he is running at 100%. Wisconsin lost a tough one last week in Ann Arbor without their two best receivers/TEs. Wisconsin is better than they showed last week. If they can utilize their power running game to set up the pass to their All-American tight end then it could be a long game for the Buckeyes.

Wisconsin 24 Ohio State 21

#23 Oregon @ #9 USC 6PM MT ABC

USC played with no passion against the Beavers last Thursday. Look for the Trojans to want to make a statement this weekend against the Ducks.

USC 42 Oregon 13

USC is much better than they played last week against Oregon State. They have been humiliated two straight years against mediocre unranked Pac 10 teams. They definitely have something to prove this week. They also have the revenge factor after losing at Oregon last year by 7. Oregon looked good last week but they will need a huge game from their QB to get by USC.

USC 27 Oregon 10

#13 Auburn @ #19 Vanderbilt 4PM MT ESPN

This is Vanderbilt's opportunity to prove they belong in the top 25. It will be a tough task to move the ball against Auburn's defense. Auburn will be too much for Vanderbelt to handle.

Auburn 27 Vanderbilt 10

Auburn’s offense is bad and their defense is awesome. If it wasn’t for a fumble recovery in the end zone, Auburn would have lost to Tennessee last week. Vanderbilt has come out of nowhere and is ranked in the top 25. If Vanderbilt can score more than 21 points, then I think they can win. But I think Auburn’s defense is going to dominate this game.

Auburn 17 Vanderbilt 10

GAME OF THE WEEK
Florida State @ Miami 1:30 PM MT ABC

The battle of the Florida thug schools. The real question is will the teams score more points than police officers on the field. Police officers are nothing new to either of these football teams. Miami is still in the process of rebuilding, and Florida State looks to have the advantage in this game.

Florida State 17 Miami 10

This game used to be one of the best games of the year. Who could forget the classic “wide right” and “wide left” games! Fortunately both of these teams have been improving. Both teams are still very talented and play tough physical defense. They are both looking for consistency from their QB. Sometimes things don’t change…Miami wins by “wide right”.

Miami 17 Florida State 14

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Week 5 Mountain West Football Predictions

TCU has a chance to make a statement this weekend, and establish themselves as the best non-BCS team...

The Mountain West Conference could make a huge statement this weekend if TCU could find a way to beat Oklahoma, and if Colorado State could get a win at California. The chances of that happening don't look good. With BYU having a bye week, and Utah playing Weber State at home this might be the week that the Mountain West takes a step back. This will be due to teams outside of the state of Utah, from the Mountain West Conference, playing tough competition and in-state rivals. Although, a good showing this weekend from the Mountain West teams would cement their place as a top conference in college football this season. Here are the prediction standing from last week/to this point/head-to-head in the season:

Mark [Last Week 8-3(.727) 29-16(.644) Head-to-Head 1-1-2]
Scott[Last Week 8-3(.727) 29-16(.644) Head-to-Head 1-1-2]

After talking, Scott and I decided to come up with a tie-breaker instead of allowing ourselves to tie in the head-to-head competition some weeks. We will declare a game of the week, and the score from that game will be the tie-breaker that week. Here are the predictions for week five:

Bowling Green @ Wyoming 2PM MT The Mtn

Bowling Green is better than their 1-2 record.  After beating Pittsburgh on the road, they gave the ball up five times dropping a game to a good Minnesota team.  Then they had to go on the road and play Boise State and lost.  Boise is a tough place to play; however, Bowling Green was able to move the ball against the Broncos.  Neither Wyoming or Bowling Green has proven that they can hold onto the football, but Bowling Green has proven to be more successful.

Bowling Green 21 Wyoming 13

I pass on this one…ok, I guess I get paid to write something so here we go…Wyoming is not very good…lucky for them neither is Bowling Green. Wyoming actually moved the ball ok against BYU, if they could just hang onto it. I would imagine that Wyoming will try to run the ball more. Their backs have looked pretty good. Their defense has looked decent as well.

Wyoming 17 Bowling Green 16

Colorado State @ California 4:15 PM MT

Colorado State has taken a step forward beating Houston at home; however, Colorado State is going to have a lot of trouble against Cal this weekend.

Cal 38 Colorado State 10

Does another MWC team use a Pac 10 team as their personal punching bag again this week? I don’t think so. Sure the Pack 10 is down, and sure Cal lost to Maryland, who lost to Middle Tennessee State (by 10!!!), but I think Cal wins this game. CSU had a great win last week against Houston. They are young, but they are improving each week. Steve Fairchild has this team going in the right direction; they just need a little more time in order to compete on the road.

California 35 Colorado State 17

#24 TCU @ #2 Oklahoma 5PM MT

TCU's defense is really really good.  TCU has only given up 200 total yards once against SMU, and only allow a team one offense score a game.  Yet, they haven't taken on an offense like Oklahoma.  The Sooners lowest scoring game this season was 52 points.  They have also had a bye week to prepare for the Horned Frogs.  They also remember that the last time that TCU was playing at OU they won 17-10. If this game was play in Fort Worth I think the Horned Frogs would win, but the Sooners at home is hard to pick against.

Oklahoma 21 TCU 10

Do you think Oklahoma has forgotten about being embarrassed 3 years ago at home by TCU…well, probably. Not sure that is going to be real motivation for either team, except that TCU knows it can go into Norman and come away with a victory. Oklahoma has looked deadly this year. This is the first real test that TCU will face this year, and will tell a lot about how good they really are. One thing we know is that TCU’s defense is solid. I’m not sure they can stop Oklahoma’s high-powered offense.

Oklahoma 27 TCU 13

Weber State @ Utah 6PM MT

It will be close...maybe for the first minute of the game.

Utah 42 Weber State 3

I smell another blowout, although I do like Weber State’s running back.

Utah 52 Weber State 10

Idaho @ San Diego State 6PM MT

Wow, talk about the great pillow fight!  This could the first game were there are more players on the field than fans in the stadium watching them.  In fact, Scott and I might be the only people in the world thinking about this game this Saturday.  The coaches and players for each team don't start caring until halftime.  Idaho is no Cal Poly, the Aztecs get the first win of the year.

San Diego State 17 Idaho 14

This is almost too painful to think about. Chuck Long better win this game or else he might not be coaching much longer at SDSU. Makes you wonder what would have happened with this team if they could have held on and beat Notre Dame…actually, no, not really.

San Diego State 24 Idaho 13

New Mexico @ New Mexico State 6PM MT ESPN360

New starting QB for the Lobos might be a blessing in disguise.  Porterie hasn't been able to lead the Lobos to where they want to be this season.  The injury will force the Lobos to play control football on the ground, and rely more on their defense.  Look for New Mexico to handle the Aggies of New Mexico State.

New Mexico 21 New Mexico State 10

New Mexico lost their starting QB for the year, which means that they will rely heavily on Rodney Ferguson to carry the load. Last year New Mexico State’s QB threw for almost 500 yards. If he can get close to those numbers again this year, New Mexico State comes away with the W. I’m not sure if Gruner can make enough plays for New Mexico to win.

New Mexico State 31 New Mexico 28

Nevada @ UNLV 6PM MT The Mtn

UNLV has a soild core of young players.  The passing duo of Clayton and Wolfe complement Summers.  The Rebels defense has proven they are good enough to provide enough stops to get a win.  Nevada has faced tough competition  the past two weeks, and will have a tough time getting a win at UNLV.

UNLV 28 Nevada 24

I’m sorry, but I am still not sold on UNLV. They have definitely exceeded expectations this year, but I think their luck runs out on Saturday. Once again it is going to come down to the last minute of the game. Nevada has a decent run defense and if they can stop Summers from running over them and force Omar Clayton into beating them, I think they win.

Nevada 24 UNLV 21

#25 Fresno State @ UCLA 1:30 PM MT ABC

Was UCLA's win over Tennessee a fluke?  Were the Bruins still shell shocked after suffering a beat down in Provo when they lost to Arizona?  This game will go a long way to show just how good the PAC-10 is this season.  Fresno State hasn't been impressive this season. Losing a winnable game to an overrated Wisconsin team, and needing overtime to beat Toledo.  Yet, the strength of the Bulldogs is on the defensive side of the ball.  That will cause problems for UCLA.

Fresno State 13 UCLA 10

What happened to UCLA?! Neuheisel and Chow were supposed to come in and awake a sleeping giant. I guess this is what happens when you are on your third string QB. I don’t care who you are, if you are playing your third string QB and your two best running backs are injured you are going to struggle. The most shocking thing about UCLA is how poor their defense has looked. Fresno State looks to be a decent football team, almost beating Wisconsin but then almost blowing it against Toledo (55-54 in OT). Not sure which Fresno team is going to show up. I know I am going to regret this pick, but I think UCLA plays more like they did against Tennessee and they come away with the victory.

UCLA 21 Fresno St 17

#22 Illinois @ #12 Penn St. 6PM MT ABC

This is the first real test for Penn State. Illinois runs a very athletic spread offense that will cause problems for Penn State's defense. Illinois also has experience playing tough games on the road this season with a visit to Missouri under their belts. Illinois plays for redemption this weekend.

Illinois 35 Penn State 24

You just don’t come into Beaver Stadium at night and leave with a victory. This is Penn State’s first test this year after breezing through their first 4 games. Illinois’ offense has looked solid, and Juice Williams is showing that he is more of a QB than most people expected. The problem for Illinois lies on the defensive side of the ball, where they are struggling to gain their identity. Penn State controls the game on the ground and comes away with the victory. *side note…if you want to see one of the best football crowds in the nation, look no further than Penn State…it is an awesome sight to see.

Penn State 27 Illinois 20

GAME OF THE WEEK
#8 Alabama @ #3 Georgia 5:45 PM MT ESPN

It is tough to win on the road in the SEC. Alabama has really turned around the program, and is ready to take the next step to regain their elite status in college football. What they need to prove is their ability to win on the road. It isn't going to happen this week for Alabama.

Georgia 17 Alabama 10

Has Nick Saban already turned the Crimson Tide around? I’m not sold on the idea yet. Georgia has arguably the best team in the country and can beat you on the ground and through the air. John Parker Wilson must have a career day if Alabama is going to beat Georgia.

Georgia 35 Alabama 21

#9 Wisconsin @ Michigan 1:30 PM MT ABC

Michigan is coming off a bye week, and a very disappointing loss to Notre Dame. That bye week gave Michigan a chance to correct their problem with holding onto the football. They moved the ball well in every game this season, but have committed too many drive killing mistakes. They get an over rated Wisconsin team at home, and a chance to be the team to expose them. Big win for the Wolverines.

Michigan 28 Wisconsin 10

Whenever you play Wisconsin, you are always in the game. Wisconsin loves to play “Big 10 football” (power running game and tough defense). As a result they don’t score a lot of points. Michigan finally has a starting QB and if they can hold on to the football, have the potential for a big play or two. Wisconsin hasn’t beaten Michigan in Ann Arbor since 1994. Rodriguez finds a way to win.

Michigan 24 Wisconsin 17

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