The Gold Sheet
COLLEGE ANALYSIS
KEY: Home team in CAPS. *—indicates night game. Statistics after game writeups
are listed in the following order: Score of game, first downs, rushing attempts/rushing
yards, passes completed/passes attempted/passes intercepted/passing yards, and
fumbles lost. In each statistical category the leader is listed first. SR—Series Record.
All score predictions are made with Las Vegas pointspreads and over-under lines in
mind. Please note: All selections indicating a preference for the underdog do not
necessarily forecast the underdog as the straight-up winner of the game. A predicted
victory by the favorite of less than the pointspread on the game indicates the underdog
is the preferred side in the game.
KEY RELEASES
NORTHWESTERN by 30 over Eastern Michigan
SOUTH CAROLINA by 3 over Georgia
BUFFALO by 2 over Pittsburgh
HAWAII by 14 over Washington State
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
North Carolina 26 - CONNECTICUT 17—Huskies self-destructed at
Chapel Hill last season, and more of same likely in rematch. LB Carter (3 punt
blocks in LY’s meeting!) just one of many athletic playmakers who are back for
Tar Heel defense (20 ints. in 2008, 3 more last week). And shaky Husky QB
Frazer, who threw 3 ints. in LY’s loss, was picked off 3 more times in narrow
opening win at Ohio. CABLE TV—ESPNU
(08-N. CAR. 38-Conn. 12...C.23-13 C.40/168 N.33/146 C.24/44/3/210 N.9/16/1/117 N.0 C.0)
(08-NORTH CAROLINA -7' 38-12...SR: North Carolina 2-0)
East Carolina 28 - WEST VIRGINIA 27 —Revenge on mind of
Mountaineers, but no guarantee they’ll get it vs. pesky Pirate squad that’s 20-
7 as dog since Skip Holtz took helm in ’05. WV needed 4 Qs to pull away from
visiting Liberty in opener, as offense frequently stalled sans departed star QB
Pat White. Meanwhile, ECU ground attack bolstered by return of sr. RB Lindsay
(105 YR last week; injured LY) and addition of Kentucky transfer B. Jackson,
who had 39-yard TD burst in opener.
(08-E. CAR. 24-W. Va. 3...E.20-12 W.36/179 E.42/143 E.23/29/0/243 W.11/18/0/72 E.0 W.2)
(08-ECU +7' 24-3 07-WVU -24' 48-7 06-Wvu -21 27-10...SR: West Virginia 17-3)
PENN STATE 42 - Syracuse 6—Arrival of QB Paulus gives Syracuse a little
passing punch, but Orange OL is still a mess (3 sacks allowed; 2.6 ypc vs.
Minny). Penn State led 31-0 at halftime before losing interest in 2nd half vs.
Akron. Tall, rangy Nittany Lion WRs (6-5 Moye had 138 yds. rec. vs. Zips) will
cause problems for smallish Syracuse 2ndary (none taller than 6 feet). Despite
Akron miss, Paterno still a solid play laying double digits (15-7 last 22).
(08-Penn St. 55-SYR. 13...P.26-8 P.43/216 S.25/49 P.20/39/0/344 S.13/35/1/110 P.2 S.1)
(08-Penn State -27' 55-13...SR: Penn State 41-23-5)
VIRGINIA TECH 30 - Marshall 14—Any Marshall recommendation
tempered by fact that Herd has thundered away backers’ money in 21 of their
last 28 away from Huntington. Still, with Hokies off draining opening loss to
Alabama and visit from Nebraska up next, we’d rather not count on Tech (1-6
last 7 as chalk) to score easy KO.
(DNP...SR: Virginia Tech 7-2)
MICHIGAN STATE 30 - Central Michigan 22—MSU QB combo of Cousins
& Nichol was very effective against Montana State, and Spartans will move the
ball against CMU “D” that yielded 448 total yds. at Arizona. However, Chips
exhibited “bend but don’t break” characteristics in holding Wildcats to just 1 TD,
and they might not have to defend WR Dell (top vertical threat in Big Ten; sat out
last week with a shoulder injury). Look for CMU QB LeFavour to bounce back
from aberrational performance, and must note Chippewas 6-1-1 last 8 as an
underdog. Will Spartans be looking ahead to revitalized ND? CABLE TV—
ESPN2 (DNP...SR: Michigan State 4-2)
NORTHWESTERN 43 - Eastern Michigan 13—Smallish EMU
yielded more than 6 ypc and gained just 40 YR in upset home loss vs. Army in
HC Ron English’s debut last week. Eagle QB Schmitt was sacked 6 times, and
pressure will be on him again facing active NU DL that ranked 18th in sacks a
year ago and is easing star DE Wootton back into action. Wildcats were very
charitable in 47-14 decision over Towson St., as QB Kafka played just the 1st
and 3rd Qs. Vet, talented NU OL will handle Eagle front 7, and Wildcat RBs
Simmons, Fields & Concannon will roll again.
(07-Nwu -10 26-14 at Detroit 06-NWU -17' 14-6...SR: Northwestern 2-0)
IOWA STATE 20 - Iowa 18—ISU somewhow finds special intensity vs. instate,
upper-crust rival Iowa, with Cylcones 9-1 vs. the spread the last 10
meetings (5-0 last 5). Expect nothing less under new HC Paul Rhoads,
especially with dual-threat sr. QB Austen Arnaud backed by a veteran
supporting cast (a 50-yard FG by soph PK Mahoney in 34-17 victory last week
vs. respected North Dakota State). Loss of starting RB Jewel Hampton
hampers Hawkeyes’ power ground game.
(08-IOWA 17-Iowa St. 5...S.18-11 U.31/122 S.27/73 S.24/40/3/252 U.9/19/2/122 U.0 S.0)
(08-IOWA -13' 17-5 07-ISU +17' 15-13 06-IOWA -13' 27-17...SR: Iowa 37-19)
*AUBURN 34 - Mississippi State 13—While MSU’s new spread attack
(only 172 YP) was hit and miss in 45-7 romp over FCS squad Jackson State, it’ll
mostly miss vs. swarming, re-energized Auburn defense that limited capable La
Tech attack to one TD & 245 yds. in 37-13 opener. Meanwhile, Tigers’ nowhealthy,
accurate QB Todd (17 of 26 for 255 vs. Bulldogs) burns rebuilt State
2ndary (3 new starters), while dynamic RB duo of RS frosh McCalebb (148 YR;
first AU frosh RB to surpass 100 YR since Bo Jackson in ‘82!) & Tate (117 YR)
do the ground work in innovative o.c. Malzahn’s fast-paced attack.
(08-Auburn 3-MISS. ST. 2...A.14-6 A.45/161 M.30/38 A.14/26/0/154 M.10/25/1/78 A.3 M.0)
(08-Auburn -10 3-2 07-Msu +12' 19-14 06-Auburn -21 34-0...SR: Auburn 57-23-2)
ARMY 32 - Duke 26—No shame in Duke’s opening home loss to Richmond,
which is regarded as one of top FCS teams in nation. However, must
acknowledge that baby-faced Blue Devils had fifteen true & RS frosh in their
two-deep last week. And gung-ho new Army HC Ellerson quickly putting some
spring back in Black Knights’ step.
(DNP...SR: Duke 10-9-1)
WISCONSIN 34 - Fresno State 19—Wisconsin appears to have upgraded
QB position, as sr. Tolzien & RS frosh Philips completed 18 of 25 against
Northern Illinois, although Tolzien threw 2 interceptions. Badgers’ run game
was hampered by nagging OL injuries, but still got 2 TDs from 247-lb. soph
bruiser Clay. Fresno stepping way up in class after pummeling UC Davis last
week, and jr. QB Colburn will be appearing in just his 4th college game and at the
most hostile environment yet. Depth at skill positions gives Badgers edge, and
HC Bielema will demand sharp effort from Wisconsin after NIU rallied to make
a game out of a rout last week. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-Wis. 13-FRESNO ST. 10...W.16-15 W.39/154 F.33/118 F.15/27/1/225 W.13/26/0/150 W.0 F.1)
(08-Wisconsin -1' 13-10...SR: Wisconsin 2-1)
Stanford 24 - WAKE FOREST 20—Not sure that was a Stanford “buy”
signal against woeful Wazzu last week at Pullman. But Cardinal does have a
functional infantry these days now that slamming sr. RB Gerhart (121 YR vs.
Cougs) has delayed his eventual baseball career for a few months, and
mistake-free performance by QB Luck vs. WSU is early evidence that Jim
Harbaugh’s faith in his RS frosh is being rewarded. Hosting non-ACC foes not
historically profitable for Wake (1-11 vs. line last 12 in role), and low-variance
Deacs lack big-play ability to stretch vet Stanford stop unit. (FIRST MEETING)
*South Carolina 16 - GEORGIA 13—Yes, number reduced following
disparate results. But not dissuaded from supporting defensively-fierce USC
(limited NC State to 133 yds., with 6 sacks in 7-3 win) vs. identity-seeking UGA
attack held to a mere 177 yds. following its opening-drive TD in 24-10 setback
at Oklahoma State. ‘Cocks maturing soph QB Garcia is blessed with a more
athletic WR corps TY (6-5 RS frosh Gurley is special), and Dawg defense still
unable to force mistakes (only 15 takeways LY; none vs. Cowboys). UGA
backfield has nooobody like departed superstar RB Moreno. Visitor 6-1-1 last
8 in series. CABLE TV—ESPN2
(08-Georgia 14-S. CAR. 7...S.20-17 G.35/106 S.16/18 S.23/40/1/271 G.15/25/0/146 G.0 S.1)
(08-Georgia -7' 14-7 07-Usc +3' 16-12 06-Georgia -3 18-0...SR: Georgia 45-14-2)
*TENNESSEE 31 - Ucla 13—UCLA has excelled in road underdog role, but
won’t follow that historical tech trend vs. rejuvenated UT, which hardly broke a
sweat in 63-7 debacle vs. outmanned WKU. Without a formidable ground
attack (only 4 ypc vs. SDS) and a solidified OL, Bruins’ over-burdened RS frosh
QB Prince might come up a pauper in his 1st road start vs. Vols rough & Monte
Kiffin’s tough Tampa Two defense. Good chance Bruin defense (thin in 2ndary)
eventually wears down vs. UT’s punishing ground assault in the southern heat
and humidity. And with Vols sr. triggerman Crompton (21 of 28 vs. Toppers)
quickly grasping new QB-friendly attack, SEC rep avenges LY’s painful OT loss
in Rose Bowl. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-UCLA 27-Tenn. 24 (OT)...20-20 T.34/177 U.31/29 U.25/43/4/259 T.19/42/1/189 U.0 T.1)
(08-UCLA +7' 27-24 (OT)...SR: Tennessee 7-5-2)
Byu 42 - TULANE 16—Now that BCS-buster BYU suddenly has higher
national goals following stunning 14-13 upset vs. Oklahoma, doubt Cougars get
caught in “sandwich” situation with Florida State clash on horizon. BYU’s
sharp-passing sr. QB Hall (26 of 38 for 328 yds. vs. Oklahoma)—who finally
shined vs. a high level defense—dissects shorthanded Tulane 2ndary (top
tackler FS Sonnier serving 2-game suspension) in ideal dome environs. Green
Wave’s competent QB Joe Kemp is no Jack Kemp vs. speedier BYU defense
that impressively limited Sooners to 265 yds. (albeit Heisman winner Bradford
missed 2nd H). CABLE TV—ESPN2 (DNP...SR: EVEN 1-1)
*OREGON 30 - Purdue 24—Even before LeGarrette Blount went “Ron
Artest” at Boise last week, evidence was mostly damning against new HC Kelly
and new Oregon regime that appeared uncharacteristically disorganized
(certainly not a trait of Mike Bellotti’s past Duck teams) on blue carpet.
Meanwhile, no such distractions at Purdue, where first-year HC Hope saw RB
Bolden (234 YR vs. Toledo) & QB Elliott (3 TDP) prove pleasant surprises in 52-
point explosion vs. Rockets. Underrated Boilermakers not intimidated after
taking a higher-flying Oregon bunch into OT last September.
(08-Oregon 32-PURD. 26 (OT)...O.26-25 O.43/306 P.45/201 P.26/50/2/207 O.20/48/2/197 O.2 P.1)
(08-Oregon -7' 32-26 (OT)...SR: EVEN 1-1)
Texas 45 - WYOMING 6—Wyoming (4-8 SU LY; 4-18-1 vs. the spread the
L2Ys) appears improved under former Missouri offensive coordinator Dave
Christensen, who has imported his no-huddle spread from Columbia. However,
Texas defense quite familiar with that scheme in the rugged Big XII. And this
seems to be a QB mismatch, with Colt McCoy opposing Christensen’s combo
of juco Robert Benjamin & true frosh Austyn Carta-Samuels (the pair was 16 of
31 for 188 yards and no TDs in last week’s 29-22 win over Weber State).
(DNP...SR: Texas 2-0)
NAVY 26 - Louisiana Tech 24—Not terribly surprised by Navy’s
performance at Columbus, confirming reports from mid-Atlantic scouts that
new QB Dobbs might be most explosive in long line of recent Mid option pilots.
But functional La Tech was able to sustain some offense vs. Auburn’s big and fast
defense, and QB Jenkins and friends ought to find the going a bit easier vs. smaller
Navy stop unit. And remember that Mids usually don’t offer the same value at
Annapolis (4-10 vs. line last 14) as they do on road. (FIRST MEETING)
Notre Dame 24 - MICHIGAN 17—Pair of under-fire coaches meet here,
after both notched pressure-relieving victories last week. ND QB Clausen was
near-perfect against Nevada, while Michigan frosh QBs Forcier (13 for 20 for
179 YP vs. Western Michigan) and D. Robinson (11 carries for 74 YR) are
fighting for the position. “Big House” hasn’t been a pointspread edge for the
Wolverines recently, and Irish looked improved in every phase in opener, with
ND defense off its first shutout in nearly 7 years. But most of the 259 YP
Michigan yielded to Bronco QB Hiller came in garbage time last week, and not
sure ND spread inflation warranted. TV—ABC
(08-N. DAME 35-Mich. 17...M.21-14 M.42/159 N.34/113 M.19/28/2/229 N.10/21/2/147 N.0 M.4)
(08-UND +1' 35-17 07-MICH. -8' 38-0 06-Mich. +5 47-21...SR: Michigan 20-15-1)
WASHINGTON 38 - Idaho 12—Normally we wouldn’t be talking about
“sandwich” spots for teams on 15-game losing streaks. And new Husky HC
Sarkisian could be excused for look-ahead to next week vs. former employer
USC. But since U-Dub hasn’t notched a SU win since Hillary Clinton was the
favorite to win the White House, improved Huskies won’t miss opportunity to put
15-game losing skid to the sword. Idaho perhaps more competent these days
now that it’s balancing attack (171 YR & 179 YP in win over N.M. State), but need
more evidence that recently-suspect Vandal “D” is up to task of slowing nowhealthy
Jake Locker (372 total yards vs. LSU). (DNP...SR: Washington 34-2-2)
UAB 42 - Smu 24—Pointspread a little puffy after Blazers’ impressive
victory over visiting Rice last week. And many C-USA scouts predicting big
bounceback for SMU in respected HC June Jones’ second season, especially
with new RB McNeal (Miami transfer; 158 YR in opener) giving moribund
Mustang ground game some bite. Still, it seems unwise to buck resurgent UAB
(7-2 vs. spread last 9) & peaking sr. QB Webb (415 total yards, 2TDP, 2 TDR
vs. Owls) right now. (06-SMU -5 22-9...SR: SMU 2-0)
BUFFALO 23 - Pittsburgh 21—Touted true frosh Pitt RB Lewis (129
YR & 3 TDs in opener) looks like able replacement for former star McCoy, but
limited sr. QB Stull (only 44 YP in 1st half vs. Youngstown State!) still struggling.
Panthers just 2-7 last 9 as chalk, so eager to grab points with bright Buffalo HC
Gill & his burgeoning Bulls, who have now covered 10 of previous 11 as dog
after last week’s road victory at UTEP.
(08-PITT 27-Buffalo 16...22-22 B.32/125 P.31/111 P.22/34/1/241 B.21/34/1/223 P.0 B.0)
(08-PITTSBURGH -13' 27-16...SR: Pittsburgh 1-0)
Tcu 27 - VIRGINIA 10—Not sure embattled HC Groh & his Cavaliers
wouldn’t be better off hitting the road in Week Two, as opening double-digit
home loss to William & Mary finds Charlottesville faithful ready to vent on host.
Horned Frogs chomping at the bit for their belated lidlifter after being idle last
week. And gnarly TCU defense figures to overwhelm Cavs’ nascent spread
attack (only 268 total yards vs. Tribe). CABLE TV—ESPNU
(DNP...SR: Virginia 1-0)
BOSTON COLLEGE 29 - Kent State 13—Easy romp over outmanned
Northeastern in opener good for Eagles’ ego, but probably not much else. Well
coached Kent has enough defense to provide much stiffer resistance, although
Flashes’ extended pointspread downturn (just 8-19 last 27 on board) doesn’t
inspire much confidence in dog.
(08-Bos. Col. 21-KENT ST. 0...B.17-12 B.47/230 K.36/126 K.13/21/2/134 B.12/18/0/106 B.0 K.1)
(08-Boston College -10 21-0 at Cleveland...SR: Boston College 1-0)
*TEXAS TECH 48 - Rice 16—Both teams lost their top offensive players
from 2008. But Tech simply reloading around new QB jr. Potts (405 YP in
opener), while Rice attack appears much more in flux. Plus, decisive edge to
Red Raiders’ stop unit over poor-tackling Rice defense that allowed more than
500 yards last week at UAB.
(07-Texas Tech -27' 59-24...SR: Texas Tech 26-20-1)
*Air Force 23 - MINNESOTA 20—Opening of new TCF Bank Stadium could
be a distraction for Minnesota, and the Gopher defense might have trouble
adjusting to Air Force option attack. Jury still out on Gopher “D” that figures to
miss d.c. Roof (to Auburn). Falcons had a virtual walk-through against Nicholls
State, as seven different players scored in 72-0 whitewash. Gopher QB Weber
wasn’t exactly sharp at Syracuse (18 for 42 passing). (FIRST MEETING)
*Hawaii 34 - WASHINGTON STATE 20—We suppose those Wazzu
supporters who prefer the “glass is half full” argument found some positives in
last week’s 39-13 loss vs. Stanford. But Cougs still woefully deficient in size
and speed departments, and beleaguered WSU “D” didn’t look appreciably
better than LY’s stop (go?) unit that allowed more points than any team in
college history. Rebuilt Hawaii “D” probably faced stiffer challenge last week vs.
ranked FCS entry Central Arkansas, although Warriors well-advised to
eradicate sloppiness (4 TOs) that almost cost them vs. Bears. (at Seattle, WA)
(08-HAWAII 24-Wash. St. 10...H.20-14 W.37/120 H.34/63 H.19/34/1/315 W.8/17/0/76 H.0 W.2)
(08-HAWAII -28' 24-10...SR: EVEN 2-2)
Western Michigan 26 - INDIANA 23—Although Indiana fans raving about
the work of QB Chappell, Hoosiers have a matchup problem against WMU QB
Hiller. Indiana 2ndary allowed 8.2 ypp last season and looked like this season
will be no different in allowing E. Ky. QB Watts to complete 75% in opener.
Bronco QB Hiller capable of putting up similar numbers. Hoosiers were shut out
in the second half of their game and had to hang on for the win (EKU fumbled
at the Hoosier 5 in 4th Q).
(07-Indiana P 37-27 06-INDIANA -6' 39-20...SR: Indiana 4-0)
*MISSOURI 38 - Bowling Green 13—Could it be true that Missouri has
more big-play ability on offense this season despite the departure of QB Chase
Daniel & WR Jeremy Maclin? There is that possibility, as 6-5 soph QB Blaine
Gabbert has a better over-the-top arm, and 6-5 sr. WR Danario Alexander (10
for 132 receiving) ripped Illinois last week. Bowling Green is 6-1 last 7 as a dog
and scored 31 straight points to beat Troy 31-14 last Thursday, but Falcon
spread generated only 50 YR. (DNP...SR: Bowling Green 3-1)
*Kansas 34 - UTEP 16—We suppose it’s possible that the well-fed Mark
Mangino could get so distracted by the tantalizing Mexican food options in El
Paso that he might lose focus on matters at the Sun Bowl. But if UTEP fell short
in much-hyped payback role vs. Turner Gill’s rebuilding Buffalo, we’re reluctant
to get excited vs. more-explosive Kansas. After all, Jayhawks boast some
established weaponry, and RB Sharp’s 123 YR last week vs. N. Colorado
indicates foes can’t simply concentrate on slowing sr. QB Reesing’s aerial
show. Note Mangino’s KU has covered 8 of last 9 outside of Big XII, and 20 of
last 25 overall as chalk. (FIRST MEETING)
*SOUTHERN MISS 35 - Ucf 17—Knights should be more potent in 2009
after last year’s bumbling attack produced just 17 ppg and a nation’s-worst 230
ypg. UCF has little chance of keeping pace with balanced Eagle “O,” however,
especially if dominant soph WR D. Brown (sat out opener; 1117 YR & 12 TDs
LY) ready to rejoin rapidly-maturing soph QB A. Davis (15 TDP, only 2 ints. in
last 7 games) & star sr. RB Fletcher.
(08-S. Miss 17-UCF 6...S.22-10 S.54/150 U.16/64 S.21/34/0/188 U.13/33/2/144 S.0 U.0)
(08-Usm -3 17-6 07-Ucf +3 34-17 06-Usm -6 19-14...SR: Southern Miss 3-1)
OKLAHOMA STATE 41 - Houston 31—After arguably the biggest openingweek
win in school history that even made Boone Pickens temporarily forget
about his recent losses in the market, we could excuse OSU for a mild letdown
following rousing Georgia win. But if that’s the case, potent Houston capable of
making things a bit interesting vs. Cowboys. Prolific Cougar spread returns all
key skill-position weaponry from LY’s explosive attack. And with QB Keenum
(4 TDP last week vs. Northwestern State; 387 YP LY vs. OSU) already in
midseason form, UH can trade points for a while.
(08-OKLA. ST. 56-Hou. 37...28-28 O.51/379 H.22/96 H.35/62/0/387 O.14/21/2/320 O.1 H.1)
(08-OKLA. ST. -15' 56-37 06-HOUSTON -2 34-25...SR: EVEN 9-9-1)
*BOISE STATE 48 - Miami-Ohio 6—The gravity of the rebuilding job
confronting Mike Haywood at Miami was underlined in lopsided rout inflicted by
Kentucky in opener. And things certainly won’t get any easier for RedHawks on
the blue carpet, where Chris Petersen saw enough mistakes by his Boise crew
in otherwise uplifting Oregon opener that it’s unlikely Broncos will be similarly
profligate as they seek to remind pollsters of their prowess. Haywood’s offense
very limited, with no viable options at QB other than limited sr. Raudabaugh,
and Miami pointspread malaise (4-12 last 16) now acute.
(FIRST MEETING)
*LSU 23 - Vanderbilt 16—Since we firmly believe Vandy is no one hitwonder,
buoyed by upgraded recruiting under savvy 8th-year HC Bobby
Johnson, will take fair price vs. LSU contingent, a bankroll-bustin’ 5-19 vs.
spread last 24 on board (1-9 last 10 in Baton Rouge!). With ‘Dores possessing
their best ground game in recent memory (touted frosh RBs Stacy & Norman are
real deal), either capable QB L. Smith (see Special Ticker) or Adams able to
move sticks vs. still-adjusting Tiger defense (under new d.c. Chavis) that
permitted 478 yds. in 31-23 win at Washington. Vandy 14-4 last 18 as visiting
dog. CABLE TV—ESPNU (DNP...SR: LSU 20-7-1)
*Tulsa 37 - NEW MEXICO 16—Early reports from Mountain West sources
who expected new HC Locksley’s adjustment phase at New Mexico to be an
awkward one were temporarily confirmed by Lobos’ miserable showing at Texas
A&M in opener. And with “D” having a hard time adapting to more-traditional 4-
3 looks after years of Rocky Long’s unorthodox (but effective) blitz packages,
plus QB Porterie laboring to absorb nuances of Locksley’s spread, UNM will
have a hard time keeping pace with smooth-functioning Tulsa outfit that didn’t
miss a beat with new QB Kinne at controls in Friday night rout at Tulane.
(08-TULSA 56-N. Mex. 14...T.28-16 T.37/137 N.37/126 T.24/39/2/469 N.18/25/4/190 T.1 N.0)
(08-TULSA -10' 56-14...SR: Tulsa 3-2)
*Southern Cal 27 - OHIO STATE 16—Ohio State should not have been in a
life-and-death struggle with Navy last week, and that effort doesn’t bode well for
facing “reloading” USC bunch that seems to have an almost inexhaustible
source of quality replacements for its long list of NFL draftees. However, Trojans
are hampered by a number of injuries, and true frosh QB Barkley will be making his
first road start, so it’s a bit sticky laying significant points at the Horseshoe.
Pete Carroll holds technical edges (27-7 vs. the number last 34; 7 straight winsand-
covers vs. Big Ten), so would lay single digits. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-S. CAL 35-Ohio St. 3...S.21-15 S.32/164 O.34/71 S.18/30/1/184 O.21/30/2/136 S.0 O.1)
(08-SOUTHERN CAL -11 35-3...SR: Southern Cal 12-9-1)
*Utah 25 - SAN JOSE STATE 17—Based upon shellacking absorbed at
Southern Cal in opener, would be hard-pressed to justify San Jose
recommendation vs. another recent BCS bowl winner. But Utah “O” something
of a work in progress with juco QB Cain making first road start and still seeking
to gain rapport with new-look WR corps. And now that he’s not facing SC’s
bunch of future NFL defenders, Spartan sr. QB Reed should have more success
executing new ball-control attack that WAC sources say should be more adept
at moving clock and chains than a year ago. CABLE TV—ESPNU
(DNP...SR: Utah 4-1)
*UNLV 27 - Oregon State 26—We didn’t learn much about either of these
two in tuneups vs. lightweight opposition last week. But recent history indicates
Mike Sanford’s UNLV has been most dangerous in these early-season
intersectionals, especially at Sam Boyd Stadium, where Rebs have provided
good value as home dog (11-5 in role since Sanford arrived in ‘05). OSU’s rebuilt
front 7 will have its hands full chasing elusive UNLV QB Clayton, and Mike Riley
might not have the luxury of opting for the hotter hand at QB with sr. Moevao still
recovering from shoulder woes (slow-footed sr. Canfield the primary option until
further notice). (DNP...SR: UNLV 3-1)
ADDED GAMES
NEBRASKA 41 - Arkansas State 10—Arkansas State enjoyed ripping
hapless SWAC foe Mississippi Valley State (3-8 LY) by a score of 61-0 last week
(40-0 at the H). However, NU’s 49-3 domination of Florida Atlantic likely a more
telling score, as jr. QB Zac Lee (15 of 22, 2 TDs, 1 int.) and RB Roy Helu (16 for
152 rushing) were as good as advertised. So was the improving Cornhusker
defense (3 takeaways). No 358 YR for the Red Wolves this week vs. sr. DT
Ndamukong Suh & Co. ASU 1-6 vs. spread on the road LY. (FIRST MEETING)
*ALABAMA 45 - Florida Intl. 3—Even with Bama suffering some sort of
letdown following emotionally/physically draining 34-24 victory vs. Virginia Tech, no
interest in supporting overmatched FIU, which has suffered an avg. 46-pt. loss in
last 5 on road vs. so-called “Big Six” conferences (outside Sunshine State).
Tide’s new, super-smooth QB McElroy (230 YP vs. Hokies) passed early litmus
test with flying colors, and Bama’s ferocious, deep, stop unit displayed in Atlanta
it might even be better than ‘08 platoon.(06-ALABAMA -34’ 38-3...SR: Alabama 1-0)
*South Florida 45 - WESTERN KENTUCKY 13—Overmatched WKU
finished with just 83 total yards (vs. Tennessee’s 657!) in last week’s vicious
beatdown at Knoxville. Visiting Bulls have plenty of firepower, although can’t
see why USF (just 4-8 last 12 as road chalk) would go out of its way to heap more
abuse on hapless Hilltoppers. (DNP...SR: EVEN 2-2)
FLORIDA 53 - Troy 10—Realize athletic, well-schooled Troy has often been
a “tough out” in these “play for pay” games, but must lay the lumber with flawless
Florida team that has covered 17 of last 21 on board. Offensive package
expanded for Gators’ unstoppable QB Tebow, who excitedly ran some nohuddle
(“Bonsai package”) in “warm-up game” vs. Charleston Southern. And
Gators eager backup QB Brantley keeps up the beat vs. rebuilding Trojan
defense that allowed 339 YP in unexpected setback at Bowling Green.
(07-FLORIDA -25' 59-31...SR: Florida 1-0)
*NORTH TEXAS 24 - Ohio 19—We admit not having given much thought
about jumping aboard a North Texas bandwagon. But evidence from opener
against another MAC entry (Ball State) indicates this is a
different Mean Green bunch, especially with HC Dodge’s son Riley doing a
pretty good imitation of another of his dad’s proteges, Chase Daniel, while
managing UNT spread like a seasoned vet in opening win at Muncie. Frank
Solich’s Ohio “O” still juggling QBs Jackson & Scott, and Bobcats couldn’t
relocate infantry diversion in opener vs. UConn. (FIRST MEETING)
*MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 27 - Memphis 24—Even though Blue
Raiders were burned for big plays in disappointing opening loss at Clemson,
plucky Middle Tennessee defense mostly held its own vs. Tigers. And
resourceful Blue Raider jr. QB Dasher (3 ints. last week), who’s still learning
new o.c. Franklin’s pass-oriented spread, should be much sharper back at
Murfreesboro. (07-Middle Tennessee St. +3' 21-7...SR: Middle Tennessee St. 13-7-1)
*Kansas State 31 - LA.-LAFAYETTE 16—Although Bill Snyder’s return to
the K-State sidelines wasn’t as comfy as Wildcat supporters envisioned (and
we’re sure the STs are going to hear about that blocked punt KSU allowed for
a TD last week vs. UMass), there were enough positives vs. Minutemen (such
as new QB Coffman’s 3 TDP) to suggest better things on horizon for Cats.
Meanwhile, early evidence indicates most Sun Belt entries still have a way to go
vs. “real” BCS-level opposition, and new ULL QB Masson will have a lot more
to worry about vs. a Big XII “D” than he did in Southern U opener.
(08-KSU 45-La.-Laf. 37...K.30-27 L.51/335 K.45/198 K.21/28/0/272 L.16/29/0/174 K.1 L.0)
(08-KANSAS STATE -20' 45-37...SR: Kansas State 3-0)
LOOKING FOR AN ANGLE
By Gary Olshan, Chief Analyst
different Mean Green bunch, especially with HC Dodge’s son Riley doing a
pretty good imitation of another of his dad’s proteges, Chase Daniel, while
managing UNT spread like a seasoned vet in opening win at Muncie. Frank
Solich’s Ohio “O” still juggling QBs Jackson & Scott, and Bobcats couldn’t
relocate infantry diversion in opener vs. UConn. (FIRST MEETING)
*MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 27 - Memphis 24—Even though Blue
Raiders were burned for big plays in disappointing opening loss at Clemson,
plucky Middle Tennessee defense mostly held its own vs. Tigers. And
resourceful Blue Raider jr. QB Dasher (3 ints. last week), who’s still learning
new o.c. Franklin’s pass-oriented spread, should be much sharper back at
Murfreesboro. (07-Middle Tennessee St. +3' 21-7...SR: Middle Tennessee St. 13-7-1)
*Kansas State 31 - LA.-LAFAYETTE 16—Although Bill Snyder’s return to
the K-State sidelines wasn’t as comfy as Wildcat supporters envisioned (and
we’re sure the STs are going to hear about that blocked punt KSU allowed for
a TD last week vs. UMass), there were enough positives vs. Minutemen (such
as new QB Coffman’s 3 TDP) to suggest better things on horizon for Cats.
Meanwhile, early evidence indicates most Sun Belt entries still have a way to go
vs. “real” BCS-level opposition, and new ULL QB Masson will have a lot more
to worry about vs. a Big XII “D” than he did in Southern U opener.
(08-KSU 45-La.-Laf. 37...K.30-27 L.51/335 K.45/198 K.21/28/0/272 L.16/29/0/174 K.1 L.0)
(08-KANSAS STATE -20' 45-37...SR: Kansas State 3-0)
Mississippi State at AUBURN...Though Auburn eked out ugly 3-2 victory in
Starkville LY, Tigers haven’t forgotten shocking 19-14 upset loss on The Plains
in ‘07. Tigers moved ball between ‘20s (315 yds.), but were plagued by
penalties (12) and mistakes (3 lost fumbles) in ‘08 clash.
South Carolina at GEORGIA...Defenses have totally dominated, with these
two teams combining for an avg. 27 ppg over last 11 meetings (never exceeding
38!), which explains why last 11 have gone “under” total. USC blew a golden
opportunity when it had 1st-and-goal on 2-yd. line but fumbled ball in end zone
for touchback in 2nd H of LY’s 14-7 setback at Columbia.
Notre Dame at MICHIGAN...Traditional power Michigan eager for rematch
after sloppy (season-high 6 TOs) in rain-soaked 35-17 setback at South Bend
LY. Wolverines had 2 early miscues inside their own 20 in first 4 minutes of
game to set up short TD drives for ND.
Central Michigan at MICHIGAN STATE...MSU has had trouble avoiding
lookahead to ND clash, judging from 1-7 spread mark last 8 in games preceding
the Irish tilt. CMU has covered 4 of its last 5 vs. Big Ten, including 2-0 mark LY.
Southern Cal at OHIO STATE...OSU on a vendetta after absorbing an
embarrassing 35-3 crushing at Coliseum early LY (its worst loss since 63-14
blowout at Penn State in ‘94). Fast-starting USC 11-1 vs. spread last 12 road
openers. Buckeyes—who were missing top weapon RB Beanie Wells LY—
managed a meager 30 yds. in 2nd H.
Ucf at SOUTHERN MISS...After UCF scored opening TD in 1st Q, USM
defense put on the clamps in eventual 17-6 victory in Orlando LY, allowing a
season-low 208 yds. Golden Eagles then-frosh QB A. Davis completed 21 of 34
for 188 yds. while rushing for 73 yds. and a TD. And that was accomplished
sans prolific RB Fletcher (1313 YR LY), who missed game with injury.
Ucla at TENNESSEE...UT in payback mode following stinging, come-fromahead
27-24 OT loss at Rose Bowl LY. After picking off 4 passes in 1st H (one
returned for a TD), the Vol defense was dissected by UCLA QB Craft (259 YP)
following intermission, despite no Bruin ground support (only 29 YR).
Rice at TEXAS TECH...Concerned about TT peeking ahead to Texas
showdown? Don’t be. Red Raider HC Mike Leach has managed to keep squad
totally-focused for games prior to Longhorn battle, covering 10 straight in
games preceding UT past 10Ys!
East Carolina at WEST VIRGINIA...Big East juggernaut WV sky high for this
one after 7-game series win streak was snapped in depressing, nationallytelevised
24-3 setback in Greenville LY. Mounties were held without TD for 1st
time since 2001! Pirate QB Pinkney outperformed WV’s graduated A-A QB P.
White, completing 22 of 28 for 236 yds. and a TD. ECU is solid 15-4 as a road
dog since 2005, when Skip Holtz took over.
Fresno State at WISCONSIN...FSU’s fiery HC Pat Hill (his mantra is “anyone,
anytime, anywhere”) will have troops pumped-up, painfully recalling 13-10
setback at Fresno early last season. Bulldogs outgained Badgers 353-301 but
missed 3 critical FGs in LY’s defensive war that doused early BCS talk in
Fresno.
SEE GOLDSHEET.COM FOR MORE “LOOKING FOR AN ANGLE”
SPECIAL TICKER
by Bill Blackburn, Associate Editor
EDITOR’S NOTE: An expanded version of the Special Ticker
containing more than twice the information presented here is available at
www.goldsheet.com. And remember, THE GOLD SHEET goes to press
late Sunday night. The FRIDAY UPDATE is our premium Friday bulletin
covering personnel information such as injuries, as well as late-breaking
information from our nationwide network of scouts. It's available only by
fax or at our website. Check http://www.goldsheet.com for more and later
information!
ALABAMA...Soph RB Mark Ingram hurt his knee late in Virginia Tech game
after scorching Hokies for 150 YR & 2 TDs in Tide’s opening win. Ingram was
considered likely to be available for this week’s visit from Florida International
at TGS press time, however. BYU...Star RB jr. Harvey Unga (1132 YR, 42
catches, 15 TDs in 2008) did not play vs. Oklahoma due to lingering hamstring
injury. And Cougars lost sr. MLB Matt Bauman (team-best 108 tackles LY) to
a concussion in 1st Q of upset over Sooners. CLEMSON...Speedy sr. RB &
Heisman hopeful C.J. Spiller, who had 96-yard kick return TD (as well as 50-
yard punt return) in opening win over Middle Tennessee, was held out of 2nd half
vs. Blue Raiders after tweaking his hamstring, although Tiger insiders say
Spiller should be good to go this week at Georgia Tech. CONNECTICUT...Jr.
LB & co-captain Scott Lutrus (team-high 106 tackles LY) suffered shoulder/
neck stinger in Huskies’ opening victory at Ohio, and RS frosh LB Sio Moore
(hamstring) is also questionable for North Carolina. GEORGIA...Starting LT
soph Trinton Sturdivant suffered major knee injury in 3rd Q of opener and will
miss rest of season. Sturdivant also sat out LY’s campaign with injury to same
knee. IOWA...Soph RB Jewel Hampton (knee), who was expected to move into
starting role after running for 463 yards & 7 TDs as backup to departed star
Shonn Greene LY, did not play in opener and is out for season. RS frosh Adam
Robinson & jr. Paki O’Meara combined for only 79 YR on 24 carries in 17-16
home win over Northern Iowa. KANSAS...Star jr. WR Dezmon Briscoe (92
catches for 1407 yards & 15 TDs in 2008) is expected back in action this week
at UTEP after serving one-game suspension in opening victory over N.
Colorado. MICHIGAN STATE...Jr. WR Mark Dell (shoulder; 36 catches for 679
yards LY) sat out opener vs. Montana State, and starting sr. C Joel Nitchman
hurt his knee late in 1st half of Spartans’ easy win over Bobcats. MISSISSIPPI
STATE...Top RB sr. Anthony Dixon (869 YR & 9 TDs LY) will be back in action
this week at Auburn after serving one-game suspension in opener.
OREGON...Top RB sr. LaGarrette Blount, who ran for 1002 yards & 17 TDs in
2008 while sharing carries with departed Jeremiah Johnson, has been
suspended for rest of season after he punched a Boise State player in 19-8
opening loss at BSU. OREGON STATE...Top QB sr. Lyle Moevao (2534 YP &
19 TDP LY; offseason shoulder surgery) sat out opener vs. Portland State and
might not play this week at UNLV. PENN STATE...All-Big 10 jr. LB Navorro
Bowman (team-high 106 tackles, 12½ for loss, in 2008) left in 1st Q vs. Akron
and did not return after re-aggravating lingering groin injury. Lions lost highlyregarded
soph LB Michael Mauti to season-ending knee injury a few weeks ago.
SOUTH CAROLINA...Jr. LB Rodney Paulk, a starter in 2006 & 2007 who
missed LY with an injury, suffered season-ending knee injury in 2nd Q of opening
win at N.C. State. SOUTH FLORIDA...Top RB jr. Mike Ford did not play in
opener and will finish serving 2-game suspension this week at Western
Kentucky. And jr. RB Jamar Taylor (knee) also missed win over Wofford and
won’t be available for several weeks. SOUTHERN MISS...Star soph WR
DeAndre Brown (1117 YR & 12 TDC in 2008), was held out of opener vs. Alcorn
State, although Eagle insiders believe Brown will be available for at least limited
action in this week’s C-USA opener against visiting UCF. TOLEDO...Top RB
soph Morgan Williams (1010 YR & 6 TDs on 6 ypc LY) missed opener and will
finish serving two-game suspension this week against Colorado. However, sr.
LB Daris Quinn, who started every game LY, is expected back in action vs.
Buffs after serving his own suspension during loss at Purdue. TROY...Three
Trojan CBs—sr. Jorrick Calvin, the only returning starter in secondary, soph
KeJuan Phillips, and jr. Demarcus Robertson—have been declared ineligible
since spring practice. Also, all-conf. sr. LB Bear Woods (108 tackles LY) will
finish serving two-game suspension this week at Florida. Troy allowed 339 YP
in opening loss at Bowling Green. TULANE...Starting sr. S Cory Sonnier (LY’s
leading tackler) & starting sr. DT Reggie Scott did not play vs. Tulsa and will
finish serve their two-game suspensions this week vs. BYU, starting jr. DT
Oscar Ponce de Leon (hamstring) also missed opener, and starting sr. LB
Travis Burks was shaken up late in loss to Golden Hurricane. UCLA...Starting
RS frosh CB Aaron Hester is expected to miss at least a few weeks after
fracturing his leg early in 1st Q of opener. UTAH...DE Koa Misi (back), Utes’ top
pass rusher, sat out last week’s win over Utah State. VANDERBILT...Sr. RB
Jared Hawkins (sore foot; team-leading 593 YR LY) was held out of easy
opening win over Western Carolina.
COLLEGE ANALYSIS
KEY: Home team in CAPS. *—indicates night game. Statistics after game writeups
are listed in the following order: Score of game, first downs, rushing attempts/rushing
yards, passes completed/passes attempted/passes intercepted/passing yards, and
fumbles lost. In each statistical category the leader is listed first. SR—Series Record.
All score predictions are made with Las Vegas pointspreads and over-under lines in
mind. Please note: All selections indicating a preference for the underdog do not
necessarily forecast the underdog as the straight-up winner of the game. A predicted
victory by the favorite of less than the pointspread on the game indicates the underdog
is the preferred side in the game.
KEY RELEASES
NORTHWESTERN by 30 over Eastern Michigan
SOUTH CAROLINA by 3 over Georgia
BUFFALO by 2 over Pittsburgh
HAWAII by 14 over Washington State
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
North Carolina 26 - CONNECTICUT 17—Huskies self-destructed at
Chapel Hill last season, and more of same likely in rematch. LB Carter (3 punt
blocks in LY’s meeting!) just one of many athletic playmakers who are back for
Tar Heel defense (20 ints. in 2008, 3 more last week). And shaky Husky QB
Frazer, who threw 3 ints. in LY’s loss, was picked off 3 more times in narrow
opening win at Ohio. CABLE TV—ESPNU
(08-N. CAR. 38-Conn. 12...C.23-13 C.40/168 N.33/146 C.24/44/3/210 N.9/16/1/117 N.0 C.0)
(08-NORTH CAROLINA -7' 38-12...SR: North Carolina 2-0)
East Carolina 28 - WEST VIRGINIA 27 —Revenge on mind of
Mountaineers, but no guarantee they’ll get it vs. pesky Pirate squad that’s 20-
7 as dog since Skip Holtz took helm in ’05. WV needed 4 Qs to pull away from
visiting Liberty in opener, as offense frequently stalled sans departed star QB
Pat White. Meanwhile, ECU ground attack bolstered by return of sr. RB Lindsay
(105 YR last week; injured LY) and addition of Kentucky transfer B. Jackson,
who had 39-yard TD burst in opener.
(08-E. CAR. 24-W. Va. 3...E.20-12 W.36/179 E.42/143 E.23/29/0/243 W.11/18/0/72 E.0 W.2)
(08-ECU +7' 24-3 07-WVU -24' 48-7 06-Wvu -21 27-10...SR: West Virginia 17-3)
PENN STATE 42 - Syracuse 6—Arrival of QB Paulus gives Syracuse a little
passing punch, but Orange OL is still a mess (3 sacks allowed; 2.6 ypc vs.
Minny). Penn State led 31-0 at halftime before losing interest in 2nd half vs.
Akron. Tall, rangy Nittany Lion WRs (6-5 Moye had 138 yds. rec. vs. Zips) will
cause problems for smallish Syracuse 2ndary (none taller than 6 feet). Despite
Akron miss, Paterno still a solid play laying double digits (15-7 last 22).
(08-Penn St. 55-SYR. 13...P.26-8 P.43/216 S.25/49 P.20/39/0/344 S.13/35/1/110 P.2 S.1)
(08-Penn State -27' 55-13...SR: Penn State 41-23-5)
VIRGINIA TECH 30 - Marshall 14—Any Marshall recommendation
tempered by fact that Herd has thundered away backers’ money in 21 of their
last 28 away from Huntington. Still, with Hokies off draining opening loss to
Alabama and visit from Nebraska up next, we’d rather not count on Tech (1-6
last 7 as chalk) to score easy KO.
(DNP...SR: Virginia Tech 7-2)
MICHIGAN STATE 30 - Central Michigan 22—MSU QB combo of Cousins
& Nichol was very effective against Montana State, and Spartans will move the
ball against CMU “D” that yielded 448 total yds. at Arizona. However, Chips
exhibited “bend but don’t break” characteristics in holding Wildcats to just 1 TD,
and they might not have to defend WR Dell (top vertical threat in Big Ten; sat out
last week with a shoulder injury). Look for CMU QB LeFavour to bounce back
from aberrational performance, and must note Chippewas 6-1-1 last 8 as an
underdog. Will Spartans be looking ahead to revitalized ND? CABLE TV—
ESPN2 (DNP...SR: Michigan State 4-2)
NORTHWESTERN 43 - Eastern Michigan 13—Smallish EMU
yielded more than 6 ypc and gained just 40 YR in upset home loss vs. Army in
HC Ron English’s debut last week. Eagle QB Schmitt was sacked 6 times, and
pressure will be on him again facing active NU DL that ranked 18th in sacks a
year ago and is easing star DE Wootton back into action. Wildcats were very
charitable in 47-14 decision over Towson St., as QB Kafka played just the 1st
and 3rd Qs. Vet, talented NU OL will handle Eagle front 7, and Wildcat RBs
Simmons, Fields & Concannon will roll again.
(07-Nwu -10 26-14 at Detroit 06-NWU -17' 14-6...SR: Northwestern 2-0)
IOWA STATE 20 - Iowa 18—ISU somewhow finds special intensity vs. instate,
upper-crust rival Iowa, with Cylcones 9-1 vs. the spread the last 10
meetings (5-0 last 5). Expect nothing less under new HC Paul Rhoads,
especially with dual-threat sr. QB Austen Arnaud backed by a veteran
supporting cast (a 50-yard FG by soph PK Mahoney in 34-17 victory last week
vs. respected North Dakota State). Loss of starting RB Jewel Hampton
hampers Hawkeyes’ power ground game.
(08-IOWA 17-Iowa St. 5...S.18-11 U.31/122 S.27/73 S.24/40/3/252 U.9/19/2/122 U.0 S.0)
(08-IOWA -13' 17-5 07-ISU +17' 15-13 06-IOWA -13' 27-17...SR: Iowa 37-19)
*AUBURN 34 - Mississippi State 13—While MSU’s new spread attack
(only 172 YP) was hit and miss in 45-7 romp over FCS squad Jackson State, it’ll
mostly miss vs. swarming, re-energized Auburn defense that limited capable La
Tech attack to one TD & 245 yds. in 37-13 opener. Meanwhile, Tigers’ nowhealthy,
accurate QB Todd (17 of 26 for 255 vs. Bulldogs) burns rebuilt State
2ndary (3 new starters), while dynamic RB duo of RS frosh McCalebb (148 YR;
first AU frosh RB to surpass 100 YR since Bo Jackson in ‘82!) & Tate (117 YR)
do the ground work in innovative o.c. Malzahn’s fast-paced attack.
(08-Auburn 3-MISS. ST. 2...A.14-6 A.45/161 M.30/38 A.14/26/0/154 M.10/25/1/78 A.3 M.0)
(08-Auburn -10 3-2 07-Msu +12' 19-14 06-Auburn -21 34-0...SR: Auburn 57-23-2)
ARMY 32 - Duke 26—No shame in Duke’s opening home loss to Richmond,
which is regarded as one of top FCS teams in nation. However, must
acknowledge that baby-faced Blue Devils had fifteen true & RS frosh in their
two-deep last week. And gung-ho new Army HC Ellerson quickly putting some
spring back in Black Knights’ step.
(DNP...SR: Duke 10-9-1)
WISCONSIN 34 - Fresno State 19—Wisconsin appears to have upgraded
QB position, as sr. Tolzien & RS frosh Philips completed 18 of 25 against
Northern Illinois, although Tolzien threw 2 interceptions. Badgers’ run game
was hampered by nagging OL injuries, but still got 2 TDs from 247-lb. soph
bruiser Clay. Fresno stepping way up in class after pummeling UC Davis last
week, and jr. QB Colburn will be appearing in just his 4th college game and at the
most hostile environment yet. Depth at skill positions gives Badgers edge, and
HC Bielema will demand sharp effort from Wisconsin after NIU rallied to make
a game out of a rout last week. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-Wis. 13-FRESNO ST. 10...W.16-15 W.39/154 F.33/118 F.15/27/1/225 W.13/26/0/150 W.0 F.1)
(08-Wisconsin -1' 13-10...SR: Wisconsin 2-1)
Stanford 24 - WAKE FOREST 20—Not sure that was a Stanford “buy”
signal against woeful Wazzu last week at Pullman. But Cardinal does have a
functional infantry these days now that slamming sr. RB Gerhart (121 YR vs.
Cougs) has delayed his eventual baseball career for a few months, and
mistake-free performance by QB Luck vs. WSU is early evidence that Jim
Harbaugh’s faith in his RS frosh is being rewarded. Hosting non-ACC foes not
historically profitable for Wake (1-11 vs. line last 12 in role), and low-variance
Deacs lack big-play ability to stretch vet Stanford stop unit. (FIRST MEETING)
*South Carolina 16 - GEORGIA 13—Yes, number reduced following
disparate results. But not dissuaded from supporting defensively-fierce USC
(limited NC State to 133 yds., with 6 sacks in 7-3 win) vs. identity-seeking UGA
attack held to a mere 177 yds. following its opening-drive TD in 24-10 setback
at Oklahoma State. ‘Cocks maturing soph QB Garcia is blessed with a more
athletic WR corps TY (6-5 RS frosh Gurley is special), and Dawg defense still
unable to force mistakes (only 15 takeways LY; none vs. Cowboys). UGA
backfield has nooobody like departed superstar RB Moreno. Visitor 6-1-1 last
8 in series. CABLE TV—ESPN2
(08-Georgia 14-S. CAR. 7...S.20-17 G.35/106 S.16/18 S.23/40/1/271 G.15/25/0/146 G.0 S.1)
(08-Georgia -7' 14-7 07-Usc +3' 16-12 06-Georgia -3 18-0...SR: Georgia 45-14-2)
*TENNESSEE 31 - Ucla 13—UCLA has excelled in road underdog role, but
won’t follow that historical tech trend vs. rejuvenated UT, which hardly broke a
sweat in 63-7 debacle vs. outmanned WKU. Without a formidable ground
attack (only 4 ypc vs. SDS) and a solidified OL, Bruins’ over-burdened RS frosh
QB Prince might come up a pauper in his 1st road start vs. Vols rough & Monte
Kiffin’s tough Tampa Two defense. Good chance Bruin defense (thin in 2ndary)
eventually wears down vs. UT’s punishing ground assault in the southern heat
and humidity. And with Vols sr. triggerman Crompton (21 of 28 vs. Toppers)
quickly grasping new QB-friendly attack, SEC rep avenges LY’s painful OT loss
in Rose Bowl. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-UCLA 27-Tenn. 24 (OT)...20-20 T.34/177 U.31/29 U.25/43/4/259 T.19/42/1/189 U.0 T.1)
(08-UCLA +7' 27-24 (OT)...SR: Tennessee 7-5-2)
Byu 42 - TULANE 16—Now that BCS-buster BYU suddenly has higher
national goals following stunning 14-13 upset vs. Oklahoma, doubt Cougars get
caught in “sandwich” situation with Florida State clash on horizon. BYU’s
sharp-passing sr. QB Hall (26 of 38 for 328 yds. vs. Oklahoma)—who finally
shined vs. a high level defense—dissects shorthanded Tulane 2ndary (top
tackler FS Sonnier serving 2-game suspension) in ideal dome environs. Green
Wave’s competent QB Joe Kemp is no Jack Kemp vs. speedier BYU defense
that impressively limited Sooners to 265 yds. (albeit Heisman winner Bradford
missed 2nd H). CABLE TV—ESPN2 (DNP...SR: EVEN 1-1)
*OREGON 30 - Purdue 24—Even before LeGarrette Blount went “Ron
Artest” at Boise last week, evidence was mostly damning against new HC Kelly
and new Oregon regime that appeared uncharacteristically disorganized
(certainly not a trait of Mike Bellotti’s past Duck teams) on blue carpet.
Meanwhile, no such distractions at Purdue, where first-year HC Hope saw RB
Bolden (234 YR vs. Toledo) & QB Elliott (3 TDP) prove pleasant surprises in 52-
point explosion vs. Rockets. Underrated Boilermakers not intimidated after
taking a higher-flying Oregon bunch into OT last September.
(08-Oregon 32-PURD. 26 (OT)...O.26-25 O.43/306 P.45/201 P.26/50/2/207 O.20/48/2/197 O.2 P.1)
(08-Oregon -7' 32-26 (OT)...SR: EVEN 1-1)
Texas 45 - WYOMING 6—Wyoming (4-8 SU LY; 4-18-1 vs. the spread the
L2Ys) appears improved under former Missouri offensive coordinator Dave
Christensen, who has imported his no-huddle spread from Columbia. However,
Texas defense quite familiar with that scheme in the rugged Big XII. And this
seems to be a QB mismatch, with Colt McCoy opposing Christensen’s combo
of juco Robert Benjamin & true frosh Austyn Carta-Samuels (the pair was 16 of
31 for 188 yards and no TDs in last week’s 29-22 win over Weber State).
(DNP...SR: Texas 2-0)
NAVY 26 - Louisiana Tech 24—Not terribly surprised by Navy’s
performance at Columbus, confirming reports from mid-Atlantic scouts that
new QB Dobbs might be most explosive in long line of recent Mid option pilots.
But functional La Tech was able to sustain some offense vs. Auburn’s big and fast
defense, and QB Jenkins and friends ought to find the going a bit easier vs. smaller
Navy stop unit. And remember that Mids usually don’t offer the same value at
Annapolis (4-10 vs. line last 14) as they do on road. (FIRST MEETING)
Notre Dame 24 - MICHIGAN 17—Pair of under-fire coaches meet here,
after both notched pressure-relieving victories last week. ND QB Clausen was
near-perfect against Nevada, while Michigan frosh QBs Forcier (13 for 20 for
179 YP vs. Western Michigan) and D. Robinson (11 carries for 74 YR) are
fighting for the position. “Big House” hasn’t been a pointspread edge for the
Wolverines recently, and Irish looked improved in every phase in opener, with
ND defense off its first shutout in nearly 7 years. But most of the 259 YP
Michigan yielded to Bronco QB Hiller came in garbage time last week, and not
sure ND spread inflation warranted. TV—ABC
(08-N. DAME 35-Mich. 17...M.21-14 M.42/159 N.34/113 M.19/28/2/229 N.10/21/2/147 N.0 M.4)
(08-UND +1' 35-17 07-MICH. -8' 38-0 06-Mich. +5 47-21...SR: Michigan 20-15-1)
WASHINGTON 38 - Idaho 12—Normally we wouldn’t be talking about
“sandwich” spots for teams on 15-game losing streaks. And new Husky HC
Sarkisian could be excused for look-ahead to next week vs. former employer
USC. But since U-Dub hasn’t notched a SU win since Hillary Clinton was the
favorite to win the White House, improved Huskies won’t miss opportunity to put
15-game losing skid to the sword. Idaho perhaps more competent these days
now that it’s balancing attack (171 YR & 179 YP in win over N.M. State), but need
more evidence that recently-suspect Vandal “D” is up to task of slowing nowhealthy
Jake Locker (372 total yards vs. LSU). (DNP...SR: Washington 34-2-2)
UAB 42 - Smu 24—Pointspread a little puffy after Blazers’ impressive
victory over visiting Rice last week. And many C-USA scouts predicting big
bounceback for SMU in respected HC June Jones’ second season, especially
with new RB McNeal (Miami transfer; 158 YR in opener) giving moribund
Mustang ground game some bite. Still, it seems unwise to buck resurgent UAB
(7-2 vs. spread last 9) & peaking sr. QB Webb (415 total yards, 2TDP, 2 TDR
vs. Owls) right now. (06-SMU -5 22-9...SR: SMU 2-0)
BUFFALO 23 - Pittsburgh 21—Touted true frosh Pitt RB Lewis (129
YR & 3 TDs in opener) looks like able replacement for former star McCoy, but
limited sr. QB Stull (only 44 YP in 1st half vs. Youngstown State!) still struggling.
Panthers just 2-7 last 9 as chalk, so eager to grab points with bright Buffalo HC
Gill & his burgeoning Bulls, who have now covered 10 of previous 11 as dog
after last week’s road victory at UTEP.
(08-PITT 27-Buffalo 16...22-22 B.32/125 P.31/111 P.22/34/1/241 B.21/34/1/223 P.0 B.0)
(08-PITTSBURGH -13' 27-16...SR: Pittsburgh 1-0)
Tcu 27 - VIRGINIA 10—Not sure embattled HC Groh & his Cavaliers
wouldn’t be better off hitting the road in Week Two, as opening double-digit
home loss to William & Mary finds Charlottesville faithful ready to vent on host.
Horned Frogs chomping at the bit for their belated lidlifter after being idle last
week. And gnarly TCU defense figures to overwhelm Cavs’ nascent spread
attack (only 268 total yards vs. Tribe). CABLE TV—ESPNU
(DNP...SR: Virginia 1-0)
BOSTON COLLEGE 29 - Kent State 13—Easy romp over outmanned
Northeastern in opener good for Eagles’ ego, but probably not much else. Well
coached Kent has enough defense to provide much stiffer resistance, although
Flashes’ extended pointspread downturn (just 8-19 last 27 on board) doesn’t
inspire much confidence in dog.
(08-Bos. Col. 21-KENT ST. 0...B.17-12 B.47/230 K.36/126 K.13/21/2/134 B.12/18/0/106 B.0 K.1)
(08-Boston College -10 21-0 at Cleveland...SR: Boston College 1-0)
*TEXAS TECH 48 - Rice 16—Both teams lost their top offensive players
from 2008. But Tech simply reloading around new QB jr. Potts (405 YP in
opener), while Rice attack appears much more in flux. Plus, decisive edge to
Red Raiders’ stop unit over poor-tackling Rice defense that allowed more than
500 yards last week at UAB.
(07-Texas Tech -27' 59-24...SR: Texas Tech 26-20-1)
*Air Force 23 - MINNESOTA 20—Opening of new TCF Bank Stadium could
be a distraction for Minnesota, and the Gopher defense might have trouble
adjusting to Air Force option attack. Jury still out on Gopher “D” that figures to
miss d.c. Roof (to Auburn). Falcons had a virtual walk-through against Nicholls
State, as seven different players scored in 72-0 whitewash. Gopher QB Weber
wasn’t exactly sharp at Syracuse (18 for 42 passing). (FIRST MEETING)
*Hawaii 34 - WASHINGTON STATE 20—We suppose those Wazzu
supporters who prefer the “glass is half full” argument found some positives in
last week’s 39-13 loss vs. Stanford. But Cougs still woefully deficient in size
and speed departments, and beleaguered WSU “D” didn’t look appreciably
better than LY’s stop (go?) unit that allowed more points than any team in
college history. Rebuilt Hawaii “D” probably faced stiffer challenge last week vs.
ranked FCS entry Central Arkansas, although Warriors well-advised to
eradicate sloppiness (4 TOs) that almost cost them vs. Bears. (at Seattle, WA)
(08-HAWAII 24-Wash. St. 10...H.20-14 W.37/120 H.34/63 H.19/34/1/315 W.8/17/0/76 H.0 W.2)
(08-HAWAII -28' 24-10...SR: EVEN 2-2)
Western Michigan 26 - INDIANA 23—Although Indiana fans raving about
the work of QB Chappell, Hoosiers have a matchup problem against WMU QB
Hiller. Indiana 2ndary allowed 8.2 ypp last season and looked like this season
will be no different in allowing E. Ky. QB Watts to complete 75% in opener.
Bronco QB Hiller capable of putting up similar numbers. Hoosiers were shut out
in the second half of their game and had to hang on for the win (EKU fumbled
at the Hoosier 5 in 4th Q).
(07-Indiana P 37-27 06-INDIANA -6' 39-20...SR: Indiana 4-0)
*MISSOURI 38 - Bowling Green 13—Could it be true that Missouri has
more big-play ability on offense this season despite the departure of QB Chase
Daniel & WR Jeremy Maclin? There is that possibility, as 6-5 soph QB Blaine
Gabbert has a better over-the-top arm, and 6-5 sr. WR Danario Alexander (10
for 132 receiving) ripped Illinois last week. Bowling Green is 6-1 last 7 as a dog
and scored 31 straight points to beat Troy 31-14 last Thursday, but Falcon
spread generated only 50 YR. (DNP...SR: Bowling Green 3-1)
*Kansas 34 - UTEP 16—We suppose it’s possible that the well-fed Mark
Mangino could get so distracted by the tantalizing Mexican food options in El
Paso that he might lose focus on matters at the Sun Bowl. But if UTEP fell short
in much-hyped payback role vs. Turner Gill’s rebuilding Buffalo, we’re reluctant
to get excited vs. more-explosive Kansas. After all, Jayhawks boast some
established weaponry, and RB Sharp’s 123 YR last week vs. N. Colorado
indicates foes can’t simply concentrate on slowing sr. QB Reesing’s aerial
show. Note Mangino’s KU has covered 8 of last 9 outside of Big XII, and 20 of
last 25 overall as chalk. (FIRST MEETING)
*SOUTHERN MISS 35 - Ucf 17—Knights should be more potent in 2009
after last year’s bumbling attack produced just 17 ppg and a nation’s-worst 230
ypg. UCF has little chance of keeping pace with balanced Eagle “O,” however,
especially if dominant soph WR D. Brown (sat out opener; 1117 YR & 12 TDs
LY) ready to rejoin rapidly-maturing soph QB A. Davis (15 TDP, only 2 ints. in
last 7 games) & star sr. RB Fletcher.
(08-S. Miss 17-UCF 6...S.22-10 S.54/150 U.16/64 S.21/34/0/188 U.13/33/2/144 S.0 U.0)
(08-Usm -3 17-6 07-Ucf +3 34-17 06-Usm -6 19-14...SR: Southern Miss 3-1)
OKLAHOMA STATE 41 - Houston 31—After arguably the biggest openingweek
win in school history that even made Boone Pickens temporarily forget
about his recent losses in the market, we could excuse OSU for a mild letdown
following rousing Georgia win. But if that’s the case, potent Houston capable of
making things a bit interesting vs. Cowboys. Prolific Cougar spread returns all
key skill-position weaponry from LY’s explosive attack. And with QB Keenum
(4 TDP last week vs. Northwestern State; 387 YP LY vs. OSU) already in
midseason form, UH can trade points for a while.
(08-OKLA. ST. 56-Hou. 37...28-28 O.51/379 H.22/96 H.35/62/0/387 O.14/21/2/320 O.1 H.1)
(08-OKLA. ST. -15' 56-37 06-HOUSTON -2 34-25...SR: EVEN 9-9-1)
*BOISE STATE 48 - Miami-Ohio 6—The gravity of the rebuilding job
confronting Mike Haywood at Miami was underlined in lopsided rout inflicted by
Kentucky in opener. And things certainly won’t get any easier for RedHawks on
the blue carpet, where Chris Petersen saw enough mistakes by his Boise crew
in otherwise uplifting Oregon opener that it’s unlikely Broncos will be similarly
profligate as they seek to remind pollsters of their prowess. Haywood’s offense
very limited, with no viable options at QB other than limited sr. Raudabaugh,
and Miami pointspread malaise (4-12 last 16) now acute.
(FIRST MEETING)
*LSU 23 - Vanderbilt 16—Since we firmly believe Vandy is no one hitwonder,
buoyed by upgraded recruiting under savvy 8th-year HC Bobby
Johnson, will take fair price vs. LSU contingent, a bankroll-bustin’ 5-19 vs.
spread last 24 on board (1-9 last 10 in Baton Rouge!). With ‘Dores possessing
their best ground game in recent memory (touted frosh RBs Stacy & Norman are
real deal), either capable QB L. Smith (see Special Ticker) or Adams able to
move sticks vs. still-adjusting Tiger defense (under new d.c. Chavis) that
permitted 478 yds. in 31-23 win at Washington. Vandy 14-4 last 18 as visiting
dog. CABLE TV—ESPNU (DNP...SR: LSU 20-7-1)
*Tulsa 37 - NEW MEXICO 16—Early reports from Mountain West sources
who expected new HC Locksley’s adjustment phase at New Mexico to be an
awkward one were temporarily confirmed by Lobos’ miserable showing at Texas
A&M in opener. And with “D” having a hard time adapting to more-traditional 4-
3 looks after years of Rocky Long’s unorthodox (but effective) blitz packages,
plus QB Porterie laboring to absorb nuances of Locksley’s spread, UNM will
have a hard time keeping pace with smooth-functioning Tulsa outfit that didn’t
miss a beat with new QB Kinne at controls in Friday night rout at Tulane.
(08-TULSA 56-N. Mex. 14...T.28-16 T.37/137 N.37/126 T.24/39/2/469 N.18/25/4/190 T.1 N.0)
(08-TULSA -10' 56-14...SR: Tulsa 3-2)
*Southern Cal 27 - OHIO STATE 16—Ohio State should not have been in a
life-and-death struggle with Navy last week, and that effort doesn’t bode well for
facing “reloading” USC bunch that seems to have an almost inexhaustible
source of quality replacements for its long list of NFL draftees. However, Trojans
are hampered by a number of injuries, and true frosh QB Barkley will be making his
first road start, so it’s a bit sticky laying significant points at the Horseshoe.
Pete Carroll holds technical edges (27-7 vs. the number last 34; 7 straight winsand-
covers vs. Big Ten), so would lay single digits. CABLE TV—ESPN
(08-S. CAL 35-Ohio St. 3...S.21-15 S.32/164 O.34/71 S.18/30/1/184 O.21/30/2/136 S.0 O.1)
(08-SOUTHERN CAL -11 35-3...SR: Southern Cal 12-9-1)
*Utah 25 - SAN JOSE STATE 17—Based upon shellacking absorbed at
Southern Cal in opener, would be hard-pressed to justify San Jose
recommendation vs. another recent BCS bowl winner. But Utah “O” something
of a work in progress with juco QB Cain making first road start and still seeking
to gain rapport with new-look WR corps. And now that he’s not facing SC’s
bunch of future NFL defenders, Spartan sr. QB Reed should have more success
executing new ball-control attack that WAC sources say should be more adept
at moving clock and chains than a year ago. CABLE TV—ESPNU
(DNP...SR: Utah 4-1)
*UNLV 27 - Oregon State 26—We didn’t learn much about either of these
two in tuneups vs. lightweight opposition last week. But recent history indicates
Mike Sanford’s UNLV has been most dangerous in these early-season
intersectionals, especially at Sam Boyd Stadium, where Rebs have provided
good value as home dog (11-5 in role since Sanford arrived in ‘05). OSU’s rebuilt
front 7 will have its hands full chasing elusive UNLV QB Clayton, and Mike Riley
might not have the luxury of opting for the hotter hand at QB with sr. Moevao still
recovering from shoulder woes (slow-footed sr. Canfield the primary option until
further notice). (DNP...SR: UNLV 3-1)
ADDED GAMES
NEBRASKA 41 - Arkansas State 10—Arkansas State enjoyed ripping
hapless SWAC foe Mississippi Valley State (3-8 LY) by a score of 61-0 last week
(40-0 at the H). However, NU’s 49-3 domination of Florida Atlantic likely a more
telling score, as jr. QB Zac Lee (15 of 22, 2 TDs, 1 int.) and RB Roy Helu (16 for
152 rushing) were as good as advertised. So was the improving Cornhusker
defense (3 takeaways). No 358 YR for the Red Wolves this week vs. sr. DT
Ndamukong Suh & Co. ASU 1-6 vs. spread on the road LY. (FIRST MEETING)
*ALABAMA 45 - Florida Intl. 3—Even with Bama suffering some sort of
letdown following emotionally/physically draining 34-24 victory vs. Virginia Tech, no
interest in supporting overmatched FIU, which has suffered an avg. 46-pt. loss in
last 5 on road vs. so-called “Big Six” conferences (outside Sunshine State).
Tide’s new, super-smooth QB McElroy (230 YP vs. Hokies) passed early litmus
test with flying colors, and Bama’s ferocious, deep, stop unit displayed in Atlanta
it might even be better than ‘08 platoon.(06-ALABAMA -34’ 38-3...SR: Alabama 1-0)
*South Florida 45 - WESTERN KENTUCKY 13—Overmatched WKU
finished with just 83 total yards (vs. Tennessee’s 657!) in last week’s vicious
beatdown at Knoxville. Visiting Bulls have plenty of firepower, although can’t
see why USF (just 4-8 last 12 as road chalk) would go out of its way to heap more
abuse on hapless Hilltoppers. (DNP...SR: EVEN 2-2)
FLORIDA 53 - Troy 10—Realize athletic, well-schooled Troy has often been
a “tough out” in these “play for pay” games, but must lay the lumber with flawless
Florida team that has covered 17 of last 21 on board. Offensive package
expanded for Gators’ unstoppable QB Tebow, who excitedly ran some nohuddle
(“Bonsai package”) in “warm-up game” vs. Charleston Southern. And
Gators eager backup QB Brantley keeps up the beat vs. rebuilding Trojan
defense that allowed 339 YP in unexpected setback at Bowling Green.
(07-FLORIDA -25' 59-31...SR: Florida 1-0)
*NORTH TEXAS 24 - Ohio 19—We admit not having given much thought
about jumping aboard a North Texas bandwagon. But evidence from opener
against another MAC entry (Ball State) indicates this is a
different Mean Green bunch, especially with HC Dodge’s son Riley doing a
pretty good imitation of another of his dad’s proteges, Chase Daniel, while
managing UNT spread like a seasoned vet in opening win at Muncie. Frank
Solich’s Ohio “O” still juggling QBs Jackson & Scott, and Bobcats couldn’t
relocate infantry diversion in opener vs. UConn. (FIRST MEETING)
*MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 27 - Memphis 24—Even though Blue
Raiders were burned for big plays in disappointing opening loss at Clemson,
plucky Middle Tennessee defense mostly held its own vs. Tigers. And
resourceful Blue Raider jr. QB Dasher (3 ints. last week), who’s still learning
new o.c. Franklin’s pass-oriented spread, should be much sharper back at
Murfreesboro. (07-Middle Tennessee St. +3' 21-7...SR: Middle Tennessee St. 13-7-1)
*Kansas State 31 - LA.-LAFAYETTE 16—Although Bill Snyder’s return to
the K-State sidelines wasn’t as comfy as Wildcat supporters envisioned (and
we’re sure the STs are going to hear about that blocked punt KSU allowed for
a TD last week vs. UMass), there were enough positives vs. Minutemen (such
as new QB Coffman’s 3 TDP) to suggest better things on horizon for Cats.
Meanwhile, early evidence indicates most Sun Belt entries still have a way to go
vs. “real” BCS-level opposition, and new ULL QB Masson will have a lot more
to worry about vs. a Big XII “D” than he did in Southern U opener.
(08-KSU 45-La.-Laf. 37...K.30-27 L.51/335 K.45/198 K.21/28/0/272 L.16/29/0/174 K.1 L.0)
(08-KANSAS STATE -20' 45-37...SR: Kansas State 3-0)
LOOKING FOR AN ANGLE
By Gary Olshan, Chief Analyst
different Mean Green bunch, especially with HC Dodge’s son Riley doing a
pretty good imitation of another of his dad’s proteges, Chase Daniel, while
managing UNT spread like a seasoned vet in opening win at Muncie. Frank
Solich’s Ohio “O” still juggling QBs Jackson & Scott, and Bobcats couldn’t
relocate infantry diversion in opener vs. UConn. (FIRST MEETING)
*MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 27 - Memphis 24—Even though Blue
Raiders were burned for big plays in disappointing opening loss at Clemson,
plucky Middle Tennessee defense mostly held its own vs. Tigers. And
resourceful Blue Raider jr. QB Dasher (3 ints. last week), who’s still learning
new o.c. Franklin’s pass-oriented spread, should be much sharper back at
Murfreesboro. (07-Middle Tennessee St. +3' 21-7...SR: Middle Tennessee St. 13-7-1)
*Kansas State 31 - LA.-LAFAYETTE 16—Although Bill Snyder’s return to
the K-State sidelines wasn’t as comfy as Wildcat supporters envisioned (and
we’re sure the STs are going to hear about that blocked punt KSU allowed for
a TD last week vs. UMass), there were enough positives vs. Minutemen (such
as new QB Coffman’s 3 TDP) to suggest better things on horizon for Cats.
Meanwhile, early evidence indicates most Sun Belt entries still have a way to go
vs. “real” BCS-level opposition, and new ULL QB Masson will have a lot more
to worry about vs. a Big XII “D” than he did in Southern U opener.
(08-KSU 45-La.-Laf. 37...K.30-27 L.51/335 K.45/198 K.21/28/0/272 L.16/29/0/174 K.1 L.0)
(08-KANSAS STATE -20' 45-37...SR: Kansas State 3-0)
Mississippi State at AUBURN...Though Auburn eked out ugly 3-2 victory in
Starkville LY, Tigers haven’t forgotten shocking 19-14 upset loss on The Plains
in ‘07. Tigers moved ball between ‘20s (315 yds.), but were plagued by
penalties (12) and mistakes (3 lost fumbles) in ‘08 clash.
South Carolina at GEORGIA...Defenses have totally dominated, with these
two teams combining for an avg. 27 ppg over last 11 meetings (never exceeding
38!), which explains why last 11 have gone “under” total. USC blew a golden
opportunity when it had 1st-and-goal on 2-yd. line but fumbled ball in end zone
for touchback in 2nd H of LY’s 14-7 setback at Columbia.
Notre Dame at MICHIGAN...Traditional power Michigan eager for rematch
after sloppy (season-high 6 TOs) in rain-soaked 35-17 setback at South Bend
LY. Wolverines had 2 early miscues inside their own 20 in first 4 minutes of
game to set up short TD drives for ND.
Central Michigan at MICHIGAN STATE...MSU has had trouble avoiding
lookahead to ND clash, judging from 1-7 spread mark last 8 in games preceding
the Irish tilt. CMU has covered 4 of its last 5 vs. Big Ten, including 2-0 mark LY.
Southern Cal at OHIO STATE...OSU on a vendetta after absorbing an
embarrassing 35-3 crushing at Coliseum early LY (its worst loss since 63-14
blowout at Penn State in ‘94). Fast-starting USC 11-1 vs. spread last 12 road
openers. Buckeyes—who were missing top weapon RB Beanie Wells LY—
managed a meager 30 yds. in 2nd H.
Ucf at SOUTHERN MISS...After UCF scored opening TD in 1st Q, USM
defense put on the clamps in eventual 17-6 victory in Orlando LY, allowing a
season-low 208 yds. Golden Eagles then-frosh QB A. Davis completed 21 of 34
for 188 yds. while rushing for 73 yds. and a TD. And that was accomplished
sans prolific RB Fletcher (1313 YR LY), who missed game with injury.
Ucla at TENNESSEE...UT in payback mode following stinging, come-fromahead
27-24 OT loss at Rose Bowl LY. After picking off 4 passes in 1st H (one
returned for a TD), the Vol defense was dissected by UCLA QB Craft (259 YP)
following intermission, despite no Bruin ground support (only 29 YR).
Rice at TEXAS TECH...Concerned about TT peeking ahead to Texas
showdown? Don’t be. Red Raider HC Mike Leach has managed to keep squad
totally-focused for games prior to Longhorn battle, covering 10 straight in
games preceding UT past 10Ys!
East Carolina at WEST VIRGINIA...Big East juggernaut WV sky high for this
one after 7-game series win streak was snapped in depressing, nationallytelevised
24-3 setback in Greenville LY. Mounties were held without TD for 1st
time since 2001! Pirate QB Pinkney outperformed WV’s graduated A-A QB P.
White, completing 22 of 28 for 236 yds. and a TD. ECU is solid 15-4 as a road
dog since 2005, when Skip Holtz took over.
Fresno State at WISCONSIN...FSU’s fiery HC Pat Hill (his mantra is “anyone,
anytime, anywhere”) will have troops pumped-up, painfully recalling 13-10
setback at Fresno early last season. Bulldogs outgained Badgers 353-301 but
missed 3 critical FGs in LY’s defensive war that doused early BCS talk in
Fresno.
SEE GOLDSHEET.COM FOR MORE “LOOKING FOR AN ANGLE”
SPECIAL TICKER
by Bill Blackburn, Associate Editor
EDITOR’S NOTE: An expanded version of the Special Ticker
containing more than twice the information presented here is available at
www.goldsheet.com. And remember, THE GOLD SHEET goes to press
late Sunday night. The FRIDAY UPDATE is our premium Friday bulletin
covering personnel information such as injuries, as well as late-breaking
information from our nationwide network of scouts. It's available only by
fax or at our website. Check http://www.goldsheet.com for more and later
information!
ALABAMA...Soph RB Mark Ingram hurt his knee late in Virginia Tech game
after scorching Hokies for 150 YR & 2 TDs in Tide’s opening win. Ingram was
considered likely to be available for this week’s visit from Florida International
at TGS press time, however. BYU...Star RB jr. Harvey Unga (1132 YR, 42
catches, 15 TDs in 2008) did not play vs. Oklahoma due to lingering hamstring
injury. And Cougars lost sr. MLB Matt Bauman (team-best 108 tackles LY) to
a concussion in 1st Q of upset over Sooners. CLEMSON...Speedy sr. RB &
Heisman hopeful C.J. Spiller, who had 96-yard kick return TD (as well as 50-
yard punt return) in opening win over Middle Tennessee, was held out of 2nd half
vs. Blue Raiders after tweaking his hamstring, although Tiger insiders say
Spiller should be good to go this week at Georgia Tech. CONNECTICUT...Jr.
LB & co-captain Scott Lutrus (team-high 106 tackles LY) suffered shoulder/
neck stinger in Huskies’ opening victory at Ohio, and RS frosh LB Sio Moore
(hamstring) is also questionable for North Carolina. GEORGIA...Starting LT
soph Trinton Sturdivant suffered major knee injury in 3rd Q of opener and will
miss rest of season. Sturdivant also sat out LY’s campaign with injury to same
knee. IOWA...Soph RB Jewel Hampton (knee), who was expected to move into
starting role after running for 463 yards & 7 TDs as backup to departed star
Shonn Greene LY, did not play in opener and is out for season. RS frosh Adam
Robinson & jr. Paki O’Meara combined for only 79 YR on 24 carries in 17-16
home win over Northern Iowa. KANSAS...Star jr. WR Dezmon Briscoe (92
catches for 1407 yards & 15 TDs in 2008) is expected back in action this week
at UTEP after serving one-game suspension in opening victory over N.
Colorado. MICHIGAN STATE...Jr. WR Mark Dell (shoulder; 36 catches for 679
yards LY) sat out opener vs. Montana State, and starting sr. C Joel Nitchman
hurt his knee late in 1st half of Spartans’ easy win over Bobcats. MISSISSIPPI
STATE...Top RB sr. Anthony Dixon (869 YR & 9 TDs LY) will be back in action
this week at Auburn after serving one-game suspension in opener.
OREGON...Top RB sr. LaGarrette Blount, who ran for 1002 yards & 17 TDs in
2008 while sharing carries with departed Jeremiah Johnson, has been
suspended for rest of season after he punched a Boise State player in 19-8
opening loss at BSU. OREGON STATE...Top QB sr. Lyle Moevao (2534 YP &
19 TDP LY; offseason shoulder surgery) sat out opener vs. Portland State and
might not play this week at UNLV. PENN STATE...All-Big 10 jr. LB Navorro
Bowman (team-high 106 tackles, 12½ for loss, in 2008) left in 1st Q vs. Akron
and did not return after re-aggravating lingering groin injury. Lions lost highlyregarded
soph LB Michael Mauti to season-ending knee injury a few weeks ago.
SOUTH CAROLINA...Jr. LB Rodney Paulk, a starter in 2006 & 2007 who
missed LY with an injury, suffered season-ending knee injury in 2nd Q of opening
win at N.C. State. SOUTH FLORIDA...Top RB jr. Mike Ford did not play in
opener and will finish serving 2-game suspension this week at Western
Kentucky. And jr. RB Jamar Taylor (knee) also missed win over Wofford and
won’t be available for several weeks. SOUTHERN MISS...Star soph WR
DeAndre Brown (1117 YR & 12 TDC in 2008), was held out of opener vs. Alcorn
State, although Eagle insiders believe Brown will be available for at least limited
action in this week’s C-USA opener against visiting UCF. TOLEDO...Top RB
soph Morgan Williams (1010 YR & 6 TDs on 6 ypc LY) missed opener and will
finish serving two-game suspension this week against Colorado. However, sr.
LB Daris Quinn, who started every game LY, is expected back in action vs.
Buffs after serving his own suspension during loss at Purdue. TROY...Three
Trojan CBs—sr. Jorrick Calvin, the only returning starter in secondary, soph
KeJuan Phillips, and jr. Demarcus Robertson—have been declared ineligible
since spring practice. Also, all-conf. sr. LB Bear Woods (108 tackles LY) will
finish serving two-game suspension this week at Florida. Troy allowed 339 YP
in opening loss at Bowling Green. TULANE...Starting sr. S Cory Sonnier (LY’s
leading tackler) & starting sr. DT Reggie Scott did not play vs. Tulsa and will
finish serve their two-game suspensions this week vs. BYU, starting jr. DT
Oscar Ponce de Leon (hamstring) also missed opener, and starting sr. LB
Travis Burks was shaken up late in loss to Golden Hurricane. UCLA...Starting
RS frosh CB Aaron Hester is expected to miss at least a few weeks after
fracturing his leg early in 1st Q of opener. UTAH...DE Koa Misi (back), Utes’ top
pass rusher, sat out last week’s win over Utah State. VANDERBILT...Sr. RB
Jared Hawkins (sore foot; team-leading 593 YR LY) was held out of easy
opening win over Western Carolina.
Nelly's Greensheet
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2009
North Carolina (-4) CONNECTICUT 11:00 AM
Last season the Tar Heels crushed Connecticut 38-12 but in that game the Huskies actually
had the yardage edge as UNC blocked three punts to take control of all the momentum in the
game. Connecticut does not lose at home often including going 11-2 S/U the last two seasons
and the Huskies have been an excellent ATS team going 54-40-1 the past eight years. Many
saw last week’s road trip to Ohio as a prime upset opportunity going against Connecticut but
the Huskies displayed their typical dominance on the ground posting 259 rushing yards, not
missing a beat without Donald Brown, the 2,000 yard rusher from a year ago that was a 1st
round draft pick of the Colts. Junior QB Zach Frazer threw two touchdowns but also was
intercepted three times but Connecticut never trailed in the game and the game was not as
close as the final margin suggests. North Carolina is expected to have an excellent defense
this season and holding The Citadel to only 153 yards last week while producing four
turnovers gave little to dispute those expectations. UNC had four turnovers of its own however
and a less overmatched team might have been able to take advantage as the Heels still won
big, 40-6. The UNC defense should be very tough up front and Connecticut will need to have
some success in the air to win this game. Junior QB T.J. Yates was not asked to do a lot last
week but even so he did not look overly sharp, completing just nine passes as the Tar Heels
relied on the running game. Connecticut’s defense will be better than expected and this looks
like a tricky road spot for North Carolina even though they appear to be an experienced and
talented team that could be poised for a very strong season. CONNECTICUT BY 3
NELLY’S FREE PICK PHONE LINE (608) 283-3132
WEST VIRGINIA (-6½) East Carolina 2:30 PM
Beating FCS Liberty just 33-20 last week may scare some people off West Virginia but Liberty
went 10-2 last season to win the Big South Conference and by the yardage the Mountaineers
controlled the game. QB Jarrett Brown has played minimally in his career and he was efficient
last week while the West Virginia running game should remain effective. Looking ahead to a
game against Auburn next week might have normally been a problem, but East Carolina upset
West Virginia in brutal fashion last season winning 24-3. That game took place in Greenville
however and the Pirates were riding high entering that game following a huge upset of Virginia
Tech in the opening week. East Carolina acquitted itself well last week in holding off FCS
Appalachian State, largely considered the top FCS team in the nation and still notorious for
the upset of Michigan two years ago. East Carolina actually led 29-7 entering the 4th quarter
and though a late rally needed to be calmed, the game was not as close as the final score
indicated until a frantic finish. Senior QB Patrick Pinkney did not have a great game but the
Pirates were able to run the ball and the defense played extremely well early in the game.
East Carolina has been a great road team under Coach Holtz though the Pirates have had
very little success in Morgantown. The Pirates are 15-9 ATS on the road since ’05 and
although many will expect a revenge performance from West Virginia, East Carolina has
proven legit against several tough opponents in recent years. WEST VIRGINIA BY 3
PENN STATE (-28) Syracuse 11:00 AM
Although Penn State gave up the backdoor cover in a win over Akron last week the Lions
completely dominated the game, scoring 31 points in the first half before coasting in the
second half. Penn State only rushed for 136 yards but the passing attack was impressive as
QB Darryl Clark passed for 353 yards with great efficiency. Akron should be one of the better
teams in the MAC so it was an impressive showing and now the Lions host a Syracuse squad
they beat 55-13 last season at the Carrier Dome. Syracuse held its own versus favored
Minnesota last week, eventually losing in overtime and QB Greg Paulus played well enough to
provide some hope for the Orange in Coach Marrone’s first season. Minnesota has one of the
best pass and catch tandems in the Big Ten and the Gophers labored to move the ball last
week as the Syracuse defense appears to be greatly improved. The Orange will not be able to
shut down Penn State but this could be a much more competitive team that will be hungry
after a tough opening loss. Even if Penn State has some early success they are not likely to
continue piling it on as much bigger games will be ahead. One solid performance does not
mean Syracuse has turned things around but it was an encouraging enough effort that justifies
backing the Orange this week as an inflated underdog. PENN STATE BY 24
VIRGINIA TECH (-19½) Marshall 12:30 PM
The Hokies have played in the Orange Bowl each of the last two seasons but like both of the
past two years, Virginia Tech will play out the year after an early season loss. Virginia Tech
produced just 155 yards against Alabama last week, though the game was close throughout
and the Hokies led entering the 4th quarter. They did appear to be the inferior squad in most
areas and caught several breaks to stay in the game however. Virginia Tech has a lot of
promise this season but a letdown could occur after a tough loss in huge game and facing
another key non-conference game with Nebraska next week. Marshall faced a Southern
Illinois squad that rates as one of the better teams in the FCS division and it was a battle but
the Herd showed great resolve to get the win. Marshall trailed at halftime but pulled away in
the third quarter as junior QB Brian Anderson tossed for 316 yards. The Herd failed to cover
last season against all three BCS conference opponents but this year’s version rates as a
much stronger team with 16 starters returning in a critical fifth season for Coach Mark Snyder.
Virginia Tech has not been a strong home favorite in recent years including going just 1-4 a
year ago and it would be a surprise to see the Hokies pour it on offensively after averaging
just 22 points per game last season and playing with a thin backfield. VIRGINIA TECH BY 13
MICHIGAN STATE (-14) Central Michigan 11:00 AM
The Spartans had five passing touchdowns last week in a lopsided win over FCS Montana
State while this will the second consecutive tough road game for Central Michigan. The
Chippewas lost 19-6 at Arizona last week but that was a much tougher travel situation and the
game was also delayed due to lightning making an even more difficult situation for the road
team. Central Michigan had very little success moving the ball even behind veteran QB Dan
LeFevour. The CMU defense also did not play as well as the score might lead one to believe
as Arizona had 448 yards, moving the ball effectively on the ground and in the air. The
Chippewas have covered in four of the last five games against Big Ten teams and facing an
in-state team will garner more attention. After being held to a career low in passing yards,
LeFevour should have more opportunities this week against a Spartans team that often
struggled against the pass last year. Michigan State will also be facing a much bigger game
against Notre Dame next week and this could play out as a bit of a flat spot against an
experienced Central squad. Michigan State is actually just 7-15-2 ATS in the last 24 home
games and this line is low for good reason. MICHIGAN STATE BY 10
NORTHWESTERN (-17) Eastern Michigan 11:00 AM
It was a very disappointing opening game for Eastern Michigan, falling 27-14 at home in one
of the few winnable games on the schedule. After facing a tough triple-option attack,
defending Northwestern could actually be an easier task. The Eagles had very little production
on the ground last w eek but with 17 starters back in action some stronger efforts could be in
order for future games. Northwestern put up big numbers last week against an overmatched
FCS Towson squad but the Wildcats have some questions with very little experience returning
on the offense. QB Mike Kafka delivered a strong performance and the defense made several
big plays. Towson won just three games last season and is going through a coaching
transition so very little should be taken from this game from Northwestern’s standpoint.
Overlooking Eastern Michigan would be a big mistake as the Eagles should be capable of
being much more productive than was shown last week. The Wildcats are a very difficult team
to trust in a favored role, going just 2-6 as home favorites under Coach Fitzgerald. After a
rocky start to the season Eastern Michigan should be in position to deliver a much more
competitive effort and the Wildcats are overvalued after scoring 47. NORTHWESTERN BY 14
Iowa (-7) IOWA STATE 11:30 AM
The Hawkeyes were nearly the big story of the opening weekend after needing two blocked
field goal attempts to hang on for a one-point victory last week. The opponent was a FCS
team Northern Iowa, but the Panthers are a much better team than most realize. UNI was
ranked 4th in the preseason FCS poll behind Appalachian State, a team that has won three of
the last four championships and famously beat Michigan two years ago, as well as Richmond
and Villanova, teams that just beat FBS teams last weekend. It certainly would have been a
big upset, but not nearly of the magnitude that it was made out to be on highlight reels as the
projected spread likely would have been 14 or so. That said, Iowa’s limited running game and
suspect pass defense should be concerns entering tougher games ahead. Iowa State took
care of business in an opening win Thursday and the Cyclones will have a little extra-prep
time and a significantly less pressure in this game. Iowa State has also covered in ten of the
last eleven meetings, having amazing recent success in this series. IOWA BY 3
AUBURN (-14½) Mississippi State 6:00 PM
Auburn was in for a very tough battle in the first half last week but things fell together in the
second half and the final margins were lopsided on the scoreboard and in the yardage
department. Coach Gene Chizik has been under intense scrutiny as a questionable hire but a
rousing debut should quiet the critics for now. This game has the potential to be much more
difficult however as both teams open SEC play. Last season these teams incredibly played to
a final score of 3-2 in Starkville with the Tigers taking the victory. Auburn held the Bulldogs to
just 116 yards in that game. Mississippi State is featuring a new coaching staff this season as
well with Dan Mullen coming in as a longtime Urban Meyer assistant. The Bulldogs won big
last week, capitalizing on turnovers en route to a 45-7 win over Jackson State. Mississippi
State won in Auburn in ’07 and these teams look very comparable talent-wise. AUBURN BY 7
ARMY (-1½) Duke 11:00 AM
Duke had 350 yards passing last week but lost to FCS Richmond. Though it looks bad at first
glance, Richmond was the FCS champion last year and actually might have been favored in
the game had a line been set. A blocked punt for a score was a key play in the game and
Duke had a significant yardage edge in the match-up. Duke QB Thaddeus Lewis had a huge
game and this next match-up will be a great contrast of styles versus the triple-option attack of
Army. The Black Knights won with relative ease last week and Coac h Ellerson enters the
academy very highly regarded after great success at Cal-Poly. Although Duke should be a
reasonably competitive team after showing solid promise last season in winning four games, it
is difficult to back a team that has just two road wins in the past five seasons. ARMY BY 7
WISCONSIN (-8½) Fresno State 11:00 AM
Fresno State’s reputation as a giant-killer is wearing a bit thin as there have not been many
examples of big upsets in recent years. Last season a make-or-break game was lost by the
Bulldogs against the Badgers 13-10 though Wisconsin likely should have won the game by
more, missing a few opportunities and facing some tough calls. The Badgers won with ease
last week as both QBs made some plays and the final score was quite misleading as the
Badgers led 28-6 before two late scores tightened the final. Fresno State delivered a blowout
win over FCS UC-Davis 51-0 last week but the Bulldogs will not be able to run the ball so
easily this week and QB Ryan Colburn will make his first ever road start in a hostile
environment. Fresno State faces long travel and will also play this game at 9:00 AM California
time making for a very tough situation against what should be a better team anyhow. To make
matters worse the biggest conference game of the season against Boise State is next on the
schedule while the Badgers face Wofford next week and should have no lack of focus,
particularly after making some mistakes last week. WISCONSIN BY 21
WAKE FOREST (-2) Stanford 11:00 AM
With a loss to once-lowly Baylor last week the Demon Deacons will again play as a very slight
home favorite. It is not a role Wake Forest has had great success in but several advantages
will work in its favor this week. Stanford will be playing a second-straight road game after an
opening win at Washington State and this trip will mean complete cross country travel in
addition to the early morning time slot for the west coast team. Stanford scored twice in the 4th
quarter to pad the final margin last week and the Cardinal allowed 351 yards last week.
Veteran QB Riley Skinner threw three interceptions last week for Wake Forest but Stanford is
starting a freshmen QB that will face just his second ever collegiate game. Baylor was also in
a huge revenge spot against Wake and the Bears are much better team than most likely
realize. Stanford has already matched its season total for road wins from last year and
excellent coach Jim Grobe is not likely to lose consecutive games. WAKE FOREST BY 17
GEORGIA (-8) South Carolina 6:00 PM
The South Carolina defense was impressive in the opening game, holding NC State to 133
yards, on the road no less. Last season the Gamecocks held a then ranked #2 Georgia team
to only 252 yards but came up just short in a 14-7 loss. This will be a tough second straight
road game for the Gamecocks but neither trip has required significant travel and opening the
college football season has afforded a little extra time before this second game. Georgia
returns home after a huge opening game, and the Bulldogs looked like the much better team
in the hyped match-up with Oklahoma State until a few tough breaks set-up a couple of easy
scoring opportunities for the Cowboys. Georgia was just 1-4 as a home favorite last season
and the opening loss has to be devastating emotionally for Georgia. Neither team has given
enough reason to back their offense but SC may have the defense. GEORGIA BY 4
TENNESSEE (-7½) Ucla 3:00 PM
Lane Kiffin had a strong debut at Tennessee as the Volunteers pounded Western Kentucky
but little weight should be given to that win and the Volunteers may be a bit overvalued based
on that lopsided outcome. UCLA did not prove it has overcome the turnover problems that
plagued the team last season with three last week and freshmen QB Kevin Prince was not
sharp enough to exude confidence going into his first ever road game in a very hostile venue.
Even though the coaching staff and many players have changed this is still a revenge spot for
Tennessee after a very fortunate UCLA win last season. Both of these teams expect to be
significantly improved this year but Tennessee was the greater underachiever last season and
Coach Kiffin seems like one willing to run up the score if the opportunity is there. UCLA’s
defense should be very sound but this will be a tough revenge road trip. TENNESSEE BY 10
Byu (-17) TULANE 9:15 PM
This is a bit of a sneaky line as Tulane was just a slightly smaller home underdog against
Tulsa last week while BYU comes into this game as a highly ranked team fresh off a huge
upset of Oklahoma. The emotional toll will be serious for the Cougars and another road trip of
great length could be a problematic situation especially with a big game against Florida State
waiting next week. By last year’s standards Tulane did a great job containing Tulsa last week
and the yardage in that game was quite even despite a 24-point loss for the Green Wave.
BYU played an incredible game last week and was particularly impressive defensively but the
Cougars did catch some breaks and the letdown potential is huge even if Tulane is a team
with some issues. The Wave are expected to be an improved team and the opener was
encouraging with Joe Kemp playing well and creating opportunities for the offense. BYU’s
offense is likely to find many more opportunities this week but the Cougars have not
performed well in the road favorite role and now the national pressure is building. BYU BY 10
OREGON (-11½) Purdue 2:30 PM
In a twisted sense, castigated Oregon RB LaGarrette Blount may have done the Ducks a
service with his post-game punch as little attention focused on the truly pathetic offensive
performance from Oregon. The Ducks averaged 485 yards of offense per game last season
and posted only 152 yards last week including collecting a grand total of six first downs in
Boise, with none until the middle of the third quarter. The Broncos had several mistakes to
give the Ducks a chance but the offense could not advance until it was too late. Last season
Purdue lost to Oregon in overtime and after a shootout win last week the Boilermakers have
some confidence despite limited experience. Purdue also allowed nearly 500 yards last week
against Toledo at home so Oregon should be much more productive this week and the Ducks
hold a very tough home field edge. Much of Toledo’s production came after the game was out
of hand however and in a battle of first year coaches that should be making smooth transitions
Purdue and Coach Danny Hope has fewer headaches at this point making a competitive effort
in a tough venue very possible. OREGON BY 7
Texas (-33) WYOMING 2:30 PM
Five turnovers helped Wyoming earn an opening victory over Weber State last week but the
Cowboys were in control and the final score was much closer than the game ever was.
Wyoming has switched to a no-huddle spread offense under new coach Dave Christensen
and he has some familiarity with Texas having worked as an assistant at Missouri in recent
years. The Longhorns failed to cover a monster spread last week and will now face a stiff road
test as Laramie can be a very tough place to play and Wyoming is 11-5 the last 16 chances as
home underdogs. Texas has not faced a line this steep on the road since its championship
season in 2005 and with a much bigger game against Texas Tech up next there will be some
potential to look-ahead as well as rest key players as soon as a comfortable lead is
developed. Wyoming’s new offense could create some difficulties as the Cowboys rushed for
246 yards last week and with the quick score potential of Texas the Longhorns defense could
wear out a bit with the up-tempo style. Texas should certainly win this game with ease but the
Longhorns did allow 20 points last week and there were many mistakes. TEXAS BY 24
NAVY (-7½) Louisiana Tech 2:30 PM
The Midshipmen captured some of the spotlight last week with a promising effort against Ohio
State. This could be a tougher follow -up however as Navy played as a favorite just twice all of
last season and the motivation can not be quite as strong following the attention the opener
received. Louisiana Tech had a very disappointing opening game as they expected to play
with Auburn last season after beating a SEC team last year. Tech returns a ton of experience
and they held up strong in the first half last week before a couple of big plays completely
changed the tide. While Nicholls State is on deck for the Bulldogs, Navy could get caught in
the past attention from last week while also spying another big-time opponent with Pitt on the
schedule next. Navy is sure to post strong rushing numbers in this match-up but Louisiana
Tech can also run the ball and a veteran offensive line should be in a much more favorable
match-up this week after wearing down against the strength and athleticism of Auburn. Navy
is a tough team to go-against but this looks like a tough spot and great value on a Louisiana
Tech team that won eight games last year and returns nearly everyone. LA TECH BY 3
Notre Dame (-4½) MICHIGAN 2:30 PM
No two coaches are facing more pressure this season as these once mighty programs have
taken serious falls. This is still a huge series however and both teams passed with flying
colors in tricky opening games last week. Michigan has covered in just two of the last ten
home games but playing as a home underdog is a different situation and that has happened
just three times in the last eight years. Both teams moved the ball with ease last week with
success on the ground and through the air. Defensively Michigan looks capable of making
Notre Dame one-dimensional which could be the key to this game. Notre Dame allowed 300
yards despite the shutout and Michigan could have had a shutout if they wanted to,
completely laying off in the second half. The Wolverines did not score at all and allowed
Western Michigan’s lone touchdown in the 4th quarter. Last season Notre Dame won 35-17 at
home but Irish caught a ton of breaks in that game with turnovers and actually only had 260
yards of offense compared to nearly 400 from Michigan. MICHIGAN BY 7
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WASHINGTON (-20½) Idaho 2:30 PM
When you think about it, a team that has lost 15 consecutive games probably shouldn’t be
favored by over 20 points against anyone but the Huskies proved a lot last week against LSU.
The non-conference games for Washington have been so brutally tough in recent years that
this is a huge drop in competition and Idaho will face a second straight road game coming off
a rare win last week. Washington out-gained LSU last week 478-321 and Jake Locker
reminded everyone how talented he is and his loss was a huge part of last season’s slide.
Idaho came up with a few big plays and faced a New Mexico State squad in transition and the
Vandals had incredible success on third downs in that game. Washington is on a long losing
streak that should be snapped this week and the Huskies will not pull back on the way to
getting that first win. Idaho allowed over 470 yards per game last season and this will be a far
tougher match-up than faced last week. WASHINGTON BY 28
UAB (-11) Smu 3:00 PM
Both of these teams will be more offensive oriented and UAB had a terrific opening effort with
a 44-24 win and over 500 yards of offense. SMU also picked up a win last week but it was
against a much lesser opponent and in much less impressive fashion. SMU trailed 23-14
entering the 4th quarter against Stephen F. Austin but found away to put together a few late
drives while also catching a break with a missed field goal from SFA. SMU allowed 460 yards
in that game which could be problematic going on the road to face a Blazers team that returns
all eleven offensive starters from last season. Rice was a bowl team last year and UAB won
with ease last week despite two turnovers and 111 yards in penalties. SMU won just once last
season and not against a FBS team but the Mustangs will be improved this season and could
make some noise late in C-USA play but the experience edge and past success for UAB on
offense should factor prominently in this early season game. UAB BY 14
Pittsburgh (-11) BUFFALO 6:00 PM
Coming off a MAC championship season where Buffalo was extremely fortunate, the Bulls
faced about as tough of a conventional situation as could be had last week and still won. As
happened a few times last season, Buffalo was out-gained and won. The Bulls caught a few
breaks with a fumble that turned into a safety as well as som e key penalties but what has
been accomplished by Coach Turner Gill has been remarkable with a program that was
historically bad just a few years ago. Last season Buffalo lost by just eleven at Pittsburgh in a
game that was incredibly even statistically. Last week Pittsburgh won 38-3 over Youngstown
State and the Panthers displayed a dominant defense in that game. Youngstown State was
not a quality FCS team last year so not much should be taken from the opener. Buffalo is
playing a new QB and will face a second straight road contest but this is a team to avoid going
against until further notice as they continue to find ways to win. PITTSBURGH BY 10
Tcu (-12) VIRGINIA 2:30 PM
The Cavaliers committed seven turnovers last week in a 26-14 loss to FCS William & Mary.
The loss may be a low point for embattled coach Al Groh in his ninth year at Virginia. The new
spread offense will obviously take some time to develop and three QBs played last week with
no real success. TCU was one of the few teams to not play las t week so there has been
immense attention place on this game. After seeing BYU earn some national attention last
week the Frogs are ready to prove they are on that same level even though few starters are
back in action from last year’s 11-2 team. Virginia is 15-4 in the last 19 games as home
underdogs but the Cavaliers offense can not be trusted and there will be no looking past this
game for TCU. Virginia has bounced back from opening losses to deliver a win the following
week each of the last three years but one of those wins was against a FCS team and in the
other two the Cavaliers did not come close to covering and this will obviously be a much more
difficult match-up facing a team that needs to make a statement. TCU BY 17
BOSTON COLLEGE (-21) Kent State 1:00 PM
Per usual not much is expected of Boston College this season but this team has won at least
eight games in each of the last seven years as one of the most consistent performers that is
almost always underrated. As a result BC is 62-47-2 ATS since ’00 including 32-19-2 at home.
BC and Kent both delivered shutout wins over FCS teams last week but the Eagles did it a bit
more impressively with 54 points in the head coaching debut of Frank Spaziani. Last season
the Eagles beat Kent 21-0 in Cleveland with turnovers playing a big role. Both teams feature
unproven QBs but there is decent experience throughout the rosters. Kent features a solid
running game with Eugene Jarvis who can be a terror on special teams as well as a receiving
threat. QB Giorgio Morgan threw two interceptions last week and Kent led just 9-0 heading
into the 4th quarter and the offense may have a tough time keeping up in this game. BC BY 24
TEXAS TECH (-26) Rice 6:00 PM
The Red Raiders went 11-2 last year but were a losing ATS team as all spreads are inflated
based on the scoring potential of Texas Tech. Very few players are back with the offense this
season although this is a program that has transitioned the QB and WR positions smoothly in
recent years. Last week the offense passed for 405 yards but just 38 points as QB Taylor
Potts had more interceptions than touchdowns. Rice won ten games last season but struggled
defensively and little appears to have changed in a lopsided loss last week. The Owls figure to
have a much less productive offense this season this is a potentially disastrous match-up for
Rice. Two years ago Tech covered in Houston as a 28-point favorite, winning 59-24 so this is
actually not a bad price on the Red Raiders relatively speaking. Tech averaged 43 points per
game last year and if they get to that mark they will have a good chance of covering as the
defense was better than most realize last season and there are seven returning starters this
year. Rice will have a tough time keeping up or getting any stops. TEXAS TECH BY 31
MINNESOTA (-4½) Air Force 6:00 PM
The Gophers had a fast start before stalling last week but managed to rally to tie the game
late and win in overtime. It was not an impressive showing comparing Syracuse teams of the
past few seasons but there is a legitimate chance that the Orange are improved on defense.
This is a highly anticipated game as Minnesota opens a new outdoor on-campus stadium after
years in the Metrodome. Air Force has brought this line down with a 72-0 win last week but
little weight should be given to the big win over Nicholls State, a team that rates very low at
the FCS level. Minnesota has a veteran offense that should have plenty of scoring
opportunities but stopping the Air Force option attack could be a problem. Minnesota was
more vulnerable against the pass last season and the Gophers could ride some momentum
and an excited fan base into some solid defensive stands. Air Force has often been a very
dangerous underdog but Minnesota has shown the potential to be an explosive offense team
even though it did not have great consistency last week. MINNESOTA BY 6
Hawaii (-3) Washington State @Seattle, WA 6:00 PM
Washington State used two QBs last week but Kevin Lopina appeared to be the more
effective player despite his horrendous numbers last season. The bigger problems for the
Cougars are on defense as Stanford moved the ball with ease on the ground last week in
another lopsided loss for WSU. The Pullman campus has also been hit hard by the flu so it is
likely that some players will see the impact. Hawaii needed a late score to knock off Central
Arkansas last week as turnovers were a big issue even though the Warriors posted big
numbers on offense and senior QB Greg Alexander delivered a strong game. Last season
Hawaii won 24-10 on the islands in game where both QBs hit the ground often with five sacks
each but Hawaii was able to move the ball in the air downfield. Playing in Seattle will not help
the cause for the Cougars and though this is a winnable game it will take a lot of courage to
back Washington State in its current format. HAWAII BY 7
INDIANA (-1½) Western Michigan 11:00 AM
Western Michigan did not put up a strong fight against Michigan last week but this should be a
Big Ten match-up that the Broncos can handle. Indiana barely squeaked by Eastern Kentucky
last week as the running game was ineffective and there were several key mistakes in all
areas of the team. The Hoosiers look drastically like the worst team in the Big Ten and Indiana
lost to two MAC teams last season. Although he did not have a good game last week against
Michigan, Western QB Tim Hiller has 31 starts under his belt and should be one of the top
passers in the MAC. Indiana returns an experienced defense but it was a fairly awful unit last
season, allowing 35 points and 432 yards per game. Junior QB Ben Chappell does not have
much experience and he had two interceptions last week for the Hoosiers. Western Michigan
played Indiana close in ’06 and ’07 and this could be the breakthrough as long as cos tly
turnovers can be avoided. WESTERN MICHIGAN BY 4
MISSOURI (-17) Bowling Green 6:00 PM
Both of these teams put on offensive shows last week and won outright as underdogs.
Missouri crushed Illinois as QB Blaine Gabbert made an extremely impressive debut. The
Missouri defense also made several big plays despite surrendering some yardage. With an
FCS opponent up next there will be no overlooking this game and the Tigers may be better
than many projected this season. Bowling Green underachieved last season and it led to a
coaching change and the new staff delivered a strong start with an impressive win over a
highly regarded Troy squad. The Falcons have a veteran offense but the performance by the
defense was the big story as few players returned from a unit that struggled last season.
Bowling Green did convert three 4th down plays and also caught some breaks with turnovers
so a repeat performance is unlikely. Playing on the road could also be a much different story
and the Tigers should deliver a win in this match-up. MISSOURI BY 21
Kansas (-11) UTEP 6:30 PM
The Jayhawks had nearly 550 yards of offense to wipe out Northern Colorado last week and
the early season schedule is favorable for Kansas with this being the lone road test. UTEP
returns a veteran team that appears poised for a division title run but the opener was ugly, as
a disastrous 2nd quarter led to a loss at home. UTEP did post significant yardage in the game
but could not convert in any big situations while being forced to abandon the running game too
soon. UTEP has not fared well at home ATS and Kansas averaged 33 points per game last
season and returns a great QB in senior Todd Reesing. Since Coach Price took over in El
Paso the Miners have not defeated a BCS conference team and this is a team that is just 9-9
S/U at home the last three years while being a losing team despite modest expectations.
Kansas has a lot to prove and can get the job done. KANSAS BY 14
SOUTHERN MISS (-14½) Central Florida 6:00 PM
The Golden Eagles were a surprise bowl team last year and almost the entire starting lineup
returns this season for Coach Fedora’s second year. Last week against Alcorn State,
Southern Miss posted over 600 yards of offense and this program could return to its status as
a C-USA power that could make noise nationally. Central Florida returns much of its offensive
talent from last year but that was one of the least productive units in the nation, averaging just
230 yards and 16 points per game. The Knights got a win last week but the numbers were not
much better and this year’s defense likely has taken a step back. UCF needed a 4th quarter
score to win last week and Southern Miss should cruise at home. SOUTHERN MISS BY 24
OKLAHOMA STATE (-15) Houston 2:30 PM
On a huge national stage Oklahoma State delivered a monumental win that justifies the high
rankings and expectations. In the early going it didn’t look good but a few big plays turned
things around. This will be a very difficult follow -up game as Houston played tough against the
Cowboys last seas on before losing 56-37 and the Cougars figure to be a high scoring team.
Last week Houston passed for nearly 450 yards and Oklahoma State will be in a very tough
emotional letdown situation. The Cowboys could post big numbers but OSU is going to be
overvalued this week and Houston returns most of the key offensive players from last year’s
team that averaged 40 points per game. OSU has not proven it is ready for the pressure of
elevated expectations and attention as a big favorite. OKLAHOMA STATE BY 10
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BOISE STATE (-35½) Miami, OH 7:00 PM
After hanging close early, Miami lost big last week in a terrible performance all around for the
debut of new coach Mike Haywood. Miami won just two games last season and it will be
another long season this year as the offense takes a different shape and there is little
experienced talent on defense. It would make sense to go against Boise State no matter what
this week based on how huge the game was last week and all the distractions that followed.
Boise clearly was focused on a great game plan against Oregon and there is more work to be
done with chief conference rival Fresno State waiting in line next Friday for what will be the
first road game for the Broncos. Boise State is 35-15 ATS at home the last eight years and
Coac h Chris Peterson has never lost S/U at home. This team continues to defy all doubters
and trying to catch points with a lousy Miami team is not worth the risk. BOISE STATE BY 41
LSU (-15½) Vanderbilt 6:00 PM
The Tigers picked up a win but there were many things to be concerned about after last
week’s win in Seattle. LSU will open the SEC season against Vanderbilt and these teams
have not met since ’05. The Commodores have much of last year’s bowl team back in action
and sophomore Larry Smith played well as the starting QB in a very convincing win last week
over Western Carolina though he eventually left the game. Smith is short on experience but
the running game provided lots of support last week, rushing for 433 yards. The Vandy
defense gave up just four first downs and although LSU has a lot of talent the offense has
limited experience in a few key spots. The Tigers are also just 1-7 ATS in the last eight games
as favorites of ten or more at home and Vanderbilt has become a team that can compete
respectably in the SEC. Coming back from a long road trip and a big win could take a toll on
the Tigers and this seems like a dangerous game. LSU BY 13
Tulsa (-17) NEW MEXICO 7:00 PM
It is an extreme transitional year for the Lobos and it showed last week in an ugly 41-6 loss to
Texas A&M. New Mexico had just six first downs and the defense surrendered over 600
yards. Tulsa won big last Friday but the level of production was below average for the Golden
Hurricanes after averaging 570 yards per game last season. There was talk of Tulsa using
three QBs last week but only G.J. Kinne played and he played well enough that there likely
won’t be talk of a multi-QB offense. Kinne rushed for 77 yards in addition to an efficient day in
the air. Tulsa took the lead early las t week and did not run up the score as often was the case
last season and this will be a second straight road game with a trip to Norman up next. This
could be a tougher spot for Tulsa but trusting New Mexico after an ugly effort last week is not
a viable option at this point in the season. TULSA BY 21
Usc (-6½) OHIO STATE 7:00 PM
Ohio State is now just 1-8 ATS in the last nine home games and the Buckeyes had some
serious concerns raised on defense last week as Navy moved the ball very effectively. The
Buckeyes offense showed a lot of potential but the task this week will obviously be much more
difficult. USC won easily in this match-up last season but RB Chris Wells was injured and QB
Terrelle Pryor had not been fully immersed as the starter yet. The final was also misleading as
an interception return broke the game open late. USC has played several challenging nonconference
games in past years but few that historically would qualify as this tough even
though the Buckeyes have lost some prestige with big bowl game blowout losses and the
narrow escape last week. The Trojans had no problems with a freshmen QB starting last week
but Matt Barkley certainly showed some youth and inexperience early in the game and playing
in a much tougher environment could lead to some mistakes. It didn’t show up in the box
score last week but the USC defense had a lot of mistakes in terms of missed assignments
and general disorder. The Trojans could get away with that type of sloppy play last week but
this is still a team in transition with new coordinators on both sides of the ball. Ohio State
never appeared thoroughly focused last week and perhaps the team is not as good as they
have been in past years but its best performance should be coming for this game. This line is
a bit shocking taken out of context and this is just the third time OSU will play as a home
underdog since Coach Tressel took over the team. OHIO STATE BY 3
Utah (-13½) SAN JOSE STATE 9:30 PM
This will be the first road game for a Utah offense replacing many parts from last year’s
undefeated team. Utah had three turnovers and was far from stout on defense last week in a
comfortable win over in-state rival Utah State but those mistakes led to a missed cover. Utah
has been a fantastic ATS team in recent years in every scenario except as a road favorite and
this could be trickier test than many would expect by glancing at the opening week scores.
San Jose State plays in the WAC as Utah State does and the Spartans whipped the Aggies
30-7 last season for comparisons sake. A veteran team is back for excellent coach Dick
Tomey and San Jose State should not be faulted too severely for losing badly to USC last
week in Los Angeles. The Spartans actually led the first quarter in that game and after a few
big plays took the game out of hand most of the key players rested. San Jose State is 5-2 the
last three years as home underdogs and last season the Spartans creamed MWC opponent
San Diego State at home. Look for Utah to have some setbacks in this road opener and
looking ahead to a big game with Oregon is a possibility. UTAH BY 10
Oregon State (-7½) UNLV 10:00 PM
Oregon State and UNLV both cruised to relatively easy wins last week against FCS foes and
UNLV was actually much more dominant in the box score. The Rebels have expectations of
taking a step forward this season and earning the first bowl trip since the ’00 season as there
is a lot of talent returning for a team that was competitive last year going 5-7 and suffering a
few narrow losses. Last year UNLV beat Arizona State in overtime in Tempe so facing a Pac -
10 opponent will not bring awe. The Beavers return very few players on defense and it
showed last week as Portland State had a lot of success passing the ball and connected for
17 first downs in the game. The Beav er offense has experience and talent that should allow
for another successful year for a program that has quietly won nine or more games each of
the last three years. UNLV is 12-5 the last 17 games as home underdogs and right now the
Rebels appear to be the more complete team. UNLV owns early season home covers versus
Iowa State, Wisconsin, Utah, and BYU the last two years. OREGON STATE BY 4
NEBRASKA (-23½) Arkansas State 1:00 PM
The Cornhuskers won 49-3 last week against another Sun Belt team but it was a tightly
contested first half and for the game both teams had 22 first downs and Nebraska allowed 358
yards despite surrendering just three points. Arkansas State was an even bigger winner last
week with a 61-0 win while allowing only 69 yards but Mississippi Valley State projects as one
of the absolute worst FCS teams. That said Arkansas State will bring confidence to Lincoln
and this Red Wolves team won at Texas A&M last season while also nearly beating Southern
Miss and hanging close for a near shocker two years ago by losing by just eight at Texas.
While Nebraska QB Zac Lee makes just his second ever start, Arkansas State features a
veteran offense from a team that won six games last season. Nebraska also will have a hard
time not looking ahead to a huge national game at Virginia Tech next week. Last season
Arkansas State soundly defeated Nebraska’s opponent last week , Florida Atlantic, and the
Huskers were not as impressive as the score indicated last week. NEBRASKA BY 13
ALABAMA (-33½) Florida International 6:00 PM
After last season’s huge opening win against Clemson the Crimson Tide nearly laid a big egg
with a horrendous effort and a narrow escape as a huge favorite against Tulane the following
week. It will be difficult to avoid a similar letdown again this season. This will be the first game
of the season for Florida International so the focus all summer has been on this match-up and
ten starters from a year ago are back on offense. After going 1-23 in ’06 & ’07, FIU was very
competitive last season w ith five wins and an 8-4 ATS record. The Panthers earned covers
against major conference foes Kansas and South Florida last season and Alabama is just 4-7
as a home favorite since Coach Saban took over. Alabama is historically just 6-15 the last 21
games as double-digit favorites and although the defense looked outstanding last week the
offense has issues and will have a hard time running up a huge score. ALABAMA BY 21
South Florida (-24) WESTERN KENTUCKY 5:30 PM
Western Kentucky was crushed at Tennessee last week and although this will be a rare
opportunity to host a major conference foe the Hilltoppers do not appear to have what it takes
to compete in this type of match-up. Only four starters return on defense and the offense
produced only 83 yards last week. South Florida won easily last week and the Bulls continue a
very light early season schedule. Last week’s opponent Wofford uses an interesting offense
that likely caused the slow start and made the USF defensive numbers look a bit suspect
against the run. South Florida is a talented team with veteran leaders on both sides of the ball,
but the Bulls have been plagued by wild inconsistency. Those lapses have typically come later
in the year however and this should be a decent opportunity for a convincing win as Western
Kentucky will have a very tough time making stops. SOUTH FLORIDA BY 31
FLORIDA (-36) Troy 11:20 PM
Looking ahead to this game may have been an issue last week for a Troy team that most
expected to be a 10-win team as the class of the Sun Belt and the one team from that
conference that could compete in non-conference games. Recall that last season Troy led
LSU 31-10 in the 4th quarter but surrendered an incredible comeback. Troy had serious
trouble running the ball last week and senior QB Levi Brown had a few costly mistakes.
Florida won easily last week but there were some problems as starting tackle Carl Johnson
was injured and the receiving corps had several drops. Florida did not mix things up on
defense at all and casually allowed 323 yards but the intensity will step up this week although
the Gators are likely to still leave things off the table with Tennessee on deck next week. Troy
is 22-13 ATS the last three years and the Trojans will be set for a redeeming effort this week
while Florida will not be interested in earning style points. FLORIDA BY 28
Ohio (-2½) NORTH TEXAS 6:00 PM
North Texas has already matched its 2008 win total delivering a major upset last week on the
road against Ball State. Another MAC team is up next and this time the game is at home in
Denton. The Mean Green projected as a greatly improved team and statistically the yardage
was far more lopsided than the final score was last week as QB Riley Dodge lived up to the
hype in his debut. Ohio could not move the ball on offense last week and some of the same
problems that plagued the Bobcats last year could again be at work as neither QB was
impressive. Ohio is 17-41 S/U on the road the past eight years and the comparisons to last
year’s North Texas team should halt immediately. The Mean Green is much better defensively
and the offense will be tough to keep pace with it, particularly in what may become a tougher
home environment. NORTH TEXAS BY 6
Memphis (NL) MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 6:00 PM
Turnovers killed the opportunities for MTSU last week against Clemson and this will be a
highly anticipated home game for the Blue Raiders facing an in-state team from a bigger
conference. Last season MTSU beat Maryland at home and in ’07 this team nearly beat
Virginia at home so this can be a very tough place to play. Clemson’s defense figures to be
one of the best in the ACC and possibly the nation so the output from the Blue Raiders last
week was commendable and it would have been a much closer game if not for three
interceptions by QB Dwight Dasher and a punt return TD for the Tigers. Memphis was
crushed last week in the annual rivalry game with Ole Miss although the game was far closer
than the final score indicated. This is a game MTSU has keyed in on and the upset is very
possible in what should be a very competitive game. MTSU BY 3
Kansas State (-7½) LOUISIANA 6:00 PM
The Ragin’ Cajuns are 0-4 as home underdogs the past three seasons and although
Louisiana allowed 380 yards last week they won 49-3. Bill Snyder’s return to the sidelines
featured a much tougher game as Kansas State needed to hold off a late rally against FCS
Massachusetts. The Minutemen project as one of the better teams at that level, rating very
comparably with the Northern Iowa team that nearly beat Iowa last week according to the
Sagarin numbers. Louisiana is likely to take a step back after winning six games last season.
For ULL there is a lot of inexperience in key spots on offense though the team made plenty of
plays last week. Expect a strong defensive effort from K-State and this is a cheap price on
what should be a bowl-bound Wildcats team. KANSAS STATE BY 14
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2009
North Carolina (-4) CONNECTICUT 11:00 AM
Last season the Tar Heels crushed Connecticut 38-12 but in that game the Huskies actually
had the yardage edge as UNC blocked three punts to take control of all the momentum in the
game. Connecticut does not lose at home often including going 11-2 S/U the last two seasons
and the Huskies have been an excellent ATS team going 54-40-1 the past eight years. Many
saw last week’s road trip to Ohio as a prime upset opportunity going against Connecticut but
the Huskies displayed their typical dominance on the ground posting 259 rushing yards, not
missing a beat without Donald Brown, the 2,000 yard rusher from a year ago that was a 1st
round draft pick of the Colts. Junior QB Zach Frazer threw two touchdowns but also was
intercepted three times but Connecticut never trailed in the game and the game was not as
close as the final margin suggests. North Carolina is expected to have an excellent defense
this season and holding The Citadel to only 153 yards last week while producing four
turnovers gave little to dispute those expectations. UNC had four turnovers of its own however
and a less overmatched team might have been able to take advantage as the Heels still won
big, 40-6. The UNC defense should be very tough up front and Connecticut will need to have
some success in the air to win this game. Junior QB T.J. Yates was not asked to do a lot last
week but even so he did not look overly sharp, completing just nine passes as the Tar Heels
relied on the running game. Connecticut’s defense will be better than expected and this looks
like a tricky road spot for North Carolina even though they appear to be an experienced and
talented team that could be poised for a very strong season. CONNECTICUT BY 3
NELLY’S FREE PICK PHONE LINE (608) 283-3132
WEST VIRGINIA (-6½) East Carolina 2:30 PM
Beating FCS Liberty just 33-20 last week may scare some people off West Virginia but Liberty
went 10-2 last season to win the Big South Conference and by the yardage the Mountaineers
controlled the game. QB Jarrett Brown has played minimally in his career and he was efficient
last week while the West Virginia running game should remain effective. Looking ahead to a
game against Auburn next week might have normally been a problem, but East Carolina upset
West Virginia in brutal fashion last season winning 24-3. That game took place in Greenville
however and the Pirates were riding high entering that game following a huge upset of Virginia
Tech in the opening week. East Carolina acquitted itself well last week in holding off FCS
Appalachian State, largely considered the top FCS team in the nation and still notorious for
the upset of Michigan two years ago. East Carolina actually led 29-7 entering the 4th quarter
and though a late rally needed to be calmed, the game was not as close as the final score
indicated until a frantic finish. Senior QB Patrick Pinkney did not have a great game but the
Pirates were able to run the ball and the defense played extremely well early in the game.
East Carolina has been a great road team under Coach Holtz though the Pirates have had
very little success in Morgantown. The Pirates are 15-9 ATS on the road since ’05 and
although many will expect a revenge performance from West Virginia, East Carolina has
proven legit against several tough opponents in recent years. WEST VIRGINIA BY 3
PENN STATE (-28) Syracuse 11:00 AM
Although Penn State gave up the backdoor cover in a win over Akron last week the Lions
completely dominated the game, scoring 31 points in the first half before coasting in the
second half. Penn State only rushed for 136 yards but the passing attack was impressive as
QB Darryl Clark passed for 353 yards with great efficiency. Akron should be one of the better
teams in the MAC so it was an impressive showing and now the Lions host a Syracuse squad
they beat 55-13 last season at the Carrier Dome. Syracuse held its own versus favored
Minnesota last week, eventually losing in overtime and QB Greg Paulus played well enough to
provide some hope for the Orange in Coach Marrone’s first season. Minnesota has one of the
best pass and catch tandems in the Big Ten and the Gophers labored to move the ball last
week as the Syracuse defense appears to be greatly improved. The Orange will not be able to
shut down Penn State but this could be a much more competitive team that will be hungry
after a tough opening loss. Even if Penn State has some early success they are not likely to
continue piling it on as much bigger games will be ahead. One solid performance does not
mean Syracuse has turned things around but it was an encouraging enough effort that justifies
backing the Orange this week as an inflated underdog. PENN STATE BY 24
VIRGINIA TECH (-19½) Marshall 12:30 PM
The Hokies have played in the Orange Bowl each of the last two seasons but like both of the
past two years, Virginia Tech will play out the year after an early season loss. Virginia Tech
produced just 155 yards against Alabama last week, though the game was close throughout
and the Hokies led entering the 4th quarter. They did appear to be the inferior squad in most
areas and caught several breaks to stay in the game however. Virginia Tech has a lot of
promise this season but a letdown could occur after a tough loss in huge game and facing
another key non-conference game with Nebraska next week. Marshall faced a Southern
Illinois squad that rates as one of the better teams in the FCS division and it was a battle but
the Herd showed great resolve to get the win. Marshall trailed at halftime but pulled away in
the third quarter as junior QB Brian Anderson tossed for 316 yards. The Herd failed to cover
last season against all three BCS conference opponents but this year’s version rates as a
much stronger team with 16 starters returning in a critical fifth season for Coach Mark Snyder.
Virginia Tech has not been a strong home favorite in recent years including going just 1-4 a
year ago and it would be a surprise to see the Hokies pour it on offensively after averaging
just 22 points per game last season and playing with a thin backfield. VIRGINIA TECH BY 13
MICHIGAN STATE (-14) Central Michigan 11:00 AM
The Spartans had five passing touchdowns last week in a lopsided win over FCS Montana
State while this will the second consecutive tough road game for Central Michigan. The
Chippewas lost 19-6 at Arizona last week but that was a much tougher travel situation and the
game was also delayed due to lightning making an even more difficult situation for the road
team. Central Michigan had very little success moving the ball even behind veteran QB Dan
LeFevour. The CMU defense also did not play as well as the score might lead one to believe
as Arizona had 448 yards, moving the ball effectively on the ground and in the air. The
Chippewas have covered in four of the last five games against Big Ten teams and facing an
in-state team will garner more attention. After being held to a career low in passing yards,
LeFevour should have more opportunities this week against a Spartans team that often
struggled against the pass last year. Michigan State will also be facing a much bigger game
against Notre Dame next week and this could play out as a bit of a flat spot against an
experienced Central squad. Michigan State is actually just 7-15-2 ATS in the last 24 home
games and this line is low for good reason. MICHIGAN STATE BY 10
NORTHWESTERN (-17) Eastern Michigan 11:00 AM
It was a very disappointing opening game for Eastern Michigan, falling 27-14 at home in one
of the few winnable games on the schedule. After facing a tough triple-option attack,
defending Northwestern could actually be an easier task. The Eagles had very little production
on the ground last w eek but with 17 starters back in action some stronger efforts could be in
order for future games. Northwestern put up big numbers last week against an overmatched
FCS Towson squad but the Wildcats have some questions with very little experience returning
on the offense. QB Mike Kafka delivered a strong performance and the defense made several
big plays. Towson won just three games last season and is going through a coaching
transition so very little should be taken from this game from Northwestern’s standpoint.
Overlooking Eastern Michigan would be a big mistake as the Eagles should be capable of
being much more productive than was shown last week. The Wildcats are a very difficult team
to trust in a favored role, going just 2-6 as home favorites under Coach Fitzgerald. After a
rocky start to the season Eastern Michigan should be in position to deliver a much more
competitive effort and the Wildcats are overvalued after scoring 47. NORTHWESTERN BY 14
Iowa (-7) IOWA STATE 11:30 AM
The Hawkeyes were nearly the big story of the opening weekend after needing two blocked
field goal attempts to hang on for a one-point victory last week. The opponent was a FCS
team Northern Iowa, but the Panthers are a much better team than most realize. UNI was
ranked 4th in the preseason FCS poll behind Appalachian State, a team that has won three of
the last four championships and famously beat Michigan two years ago, as well as Richmond
and Villanova, teams that just beat FBS teams last weekend. It certainly would have been a
big upset, but not nearly of the magnitude that it was made out to be on highlight reels as the
projected spread likely would have been 14 or so. That said, Iowa’s limited running game and
suspect pass defense should be concerns entering tougher games ahead. Iowa State took
care of business in an opening win Thursday and the Cyclones will have a little extra-prep
time and a significantly less pressure in this game. Iowa State has also covered in ten of the
last eleven meetings, having amazing recent success in this series. IOWA BY 3
AUBURN (-14½) Mississippi State 6:00 PM
Auburn was in for a very tough battle in the first half last week but things fell together in the
second half and the final margins were lopsided on the scoreboard and in the yardage
department. Coach Gene Chizik has been under intense scrutiny as a questionable hire but a
rousing debut should quiet the critics for now. This game has the potential to be much more
difficult however as both teams open SEC play. Last season these teams incredibly played to
a final score of 3-2 in Starkville with the Tigers taking the victory. Auburn held the Bulldogs to
just 116 yards in that game. Mississippi State is featuring a new coaching staff this season as
well with Dan Mullen coming in as a longtime Urban Meyer assistant. The Bulldogs won big
last week, capitalizing on turnovers en route to a 45-7 win over Jackson State. Mississippi
State won in Auburn in ’07 and these teams look very comparable talent-wise. AUBURN BY 7
ARMY (-1½) Duke 11:00 AM
Duke had 350 yards passing last week but lost to FCS Richmond. Though it looks bad at first
glance, Richmond was the FCS champion last year and actually might have been favored in
the game had a line been set. A blocked punt for a score was a key play in the game and
Duke had a significant yardage edge in the match-up. Duke QB Thaddeus Lewis had a huge
game and this next match-up will be a great contrast of styles versus the triple-option attack of
Army. The Black Knights won with relative ease last week and Coac h Ellerson enters the
academy very highly regarded after great success at Cal-Poly. Although Duke should be a
reasonably competitive team after showing solid promise last season in winning four games, it
is difficult to back a team that has just two road wins in the past five seasons. ARMY BY 7
WISCONSIN (-8½) Fresno State 11:00 AM
Fresno State’s reputation as a giant-killer is wearing a bit thin as there have not been many
examples of big upsets in recent years. Last season a make-or-break game was lost by the
Bulldogs against the Badgers 13-10 though Wisconsin likely should have won the game by
more, missing a few opportunities and facing some tough calls. The Badgers won with ease
last week as both QBs made some plays and the final score was quite misleading as the
Badgers led 28-6 before two late scores tightened the final. Fresno State delivered a blowout
win over FCS UC-Davis 51-0 last week but the Bulldogs will not be able to run the ball so
easily this week and QB Ryan Colburn will make his first ever road start in a hostile
environment. Fresno State faces long travel and will also play this game at 9:00 AM California
time making for a very tough situation against what should be a better team anyhow. To make
matters worse the biggest conference game of the season against Boise State is next on the
schedule while the Badgers face Wofford next week and should have no lack of focus,
particularly after making some mistakes last week. WISCONSIN BY 21
WAKE FOREST (-2) Stanford 11:00 AM
With a loss to once-lowly Baylor last week the Demon Deacons will again play as a very slight
home favorite. It is not a role Wake Forest has had great success in but several advantages
will work in its favor this week. Stanford will be playing a second-straight road game after an
opening win at Washington State and this trip will mean complete cross country travel in
addition to the early morning time slot for the west coast team. Stanford scored twice in the 4th
quarter to pad the final margin last week and the Cardinal allowed 351 yards last week.
Veteran QB Riley Skinner threw three interceptions last week for Wake Forest but Stanford is
starting a freshmen QB that will face just his second ever collegiate game. Baylor was also in
a huge revenge spot against Wake and the Bears are much better team than most likely
realize. Stanford has already matched its season total for road wins from last year and
excellent coach Jim Grobe is not likely to lose consecutive games. WAKE FOREST BY 17
GEORGIA (-8) South Carolina 6:00 PM
The South Carolina defense was impressive in the opening game, holding NC State to 133
yards, on the road no less. Last season the Gamecocks held a then ranked #2 Georgia team
to only 252 yards but came up just short in a 14-7 loss. This will be a tough second straight
road game for the Gamecocks but neither trip has required significant travel and opening the
college football season has afforded a little extra time before this second game. Georgia
returns home after a huge opening game, and the Bulldogs looked like the much better team
in the hyped match-up with Oklahoma State until a few tough breaks set-up a couple of easy
scoring opportunities for the Cowboys. Georgia was just 1-4 as a home favorite last season
and the opening loss has to be devastating emotionally for Georgia. Neither team has given
enough reason to back their offense but SC may have the defense. GEORGIA BY 4
TENNESSEE (-7½) Ucla 3:00 PM
Lane Kiffin had a strong debut at Tennessee as the Volunteers pounded Western Kentucky
but little weight should be given to that win and the Volunteers may be a bit overvalued based
on that lopsided outcome. UCLA did not prove it has overcome the turnover problems that
plagued the team last season with three last week and freshmen QB Kevin Prince was not
sharp enough to exude confidence going into his first ever road game in a very hostile venue.
Even though the coaching staff and many players have changed this is still a revenge spot for
Tennessee after a very fortunate UCLA win last season. Both of these teams expect to be
significantly improved this year but Tennessee was the greater underachiever last season and
Coach Kiffin seems like one willing to run up the score if the opportunity is there. UCLA’s
defense should be very sound but this will be a tough revenge road trip. TENNESSEE BY 10
Byu (-17) TULANE 9:15 PM
This is a bit of a sneaky line as Tulane was just a slightly smaller home underdog against
Tulsa last week while BYU comes into this game as a highly ranked team fresh off a huge
upset of Oklahoma. The emotional toll will be serious for the Cougars and another road trip of
great length could be a problematic situation especially with a big game against Florida State
waiting next week. By last year’s standards Tulane did a great job containing Tulsa last week
and the yardage in that game was quite even despite a 24-point loss for the Green Wave.
BYU played an incredible game last week and was particularly impressive defensively but the
Cougars did catch some breaks and the letdown potential is huge even if Tulane is a team
with some issues. The Wave are expected to be an improved team and the opener was
encouraging with Joe Kemp playing well and creating opportunities for the offense. BYU’s
offense is likely to find many more opportunities this week but the Cougars have not
performed well in the road favorite role and now the national pressure is building. BYU BY 10
OREGON (-11½) Purdue 2:30 PM
In a twisted sense, castigated Oregon RB LaGarrette Blount may have done the Ducks a
service with his post-game punch as little attention focused on the truly pathetic offensive
performance from Oregon. The Ducks averaged 485 yards of offense per game last season
and posted only 152 yards last week including collecting a grand total of six first downs in
Boise, with none until the middle of the third quarter. The Broncos had several mistakes to
give the Ducks a chance but the offense could not advance until it was too late. Last season
Purdue lost to Oregon in overtime and after a shootout win last week the Boilermakers have
some confidence despite limited experience. Purdue also allowed nearly 500 yards last week
against Toledo at home so Oregon should be much more productive this week and the Ducks
hold a very tough home field edge. Much of Toledo’s production came after the game was out
of hand however and in a battle of first year coaches that should be making smooth transitions
Purdue and Coach Danny Hope has fewer headaches at this point making a competitive effort
in a tough venue very possible. OREGON BY 7
Texas (-33) WYOMING 2:30 PM
Five turnovers helped Wyoming earn an opening victory over Weber State last week but the
Cowboys were in control and the final score was much closer than the game ever was.
Wyoming has switched to a no-huddle spread offense under new coach Dave Christensen
and he has some familiarity with Texas having worked as an assistant at Missouri in recent
years. The Longhorns failed to cover a monster spread last week and will now face a stiff road
test as Laramie can be a very tough place to play and Wyoming is 11-5 the last 16 chances as
home underdogs. Texas has not faced a line this steep on the road since its championship
season in 2005 and with a much bigger game against Texas Tech up next there will be some
potential to look-ahead as well as rest key players as soon as a comfortable lead is
developed. Wyoming’s new offense could create some difficulties as the Cowboys rushed for
246 yards last week and with the quick score potential of Texas the Longhorns defense could
wear out a bit with the up-tempo style. Texas should certainly win this game with ease but the
Longhorns did allow 20 points last week and there were many mistakes. TEXAS BY 24
NAVY (-7½) Louisiana Tech 2:30 PM
The Midshipmen captured some of the spotlight last week with a promising effort against Ohio
State. This could be a tougher follow -up however as Navy played as a favorite just twice all of
last season and the motivation can not be quite as strong following the attention the opener
received. Louisiana Tech had a very disappointing opening game as they expected to play
with Auburn last season after beating a SEC team last year. Tech returns a ton of experience
and they held up strong in the first half last week before a couple of big plays completely
changed the tide. While Nicholls State is on deck for the Bulldogs, Navy could get caught in
the past attention from last week while also spying another big-time opponent with Pitt on the
schedule next. Navy is sure to post strong rushing numbers in this match-up but Louisiana
Tech can also run the ball and a veteran offensive line should be in a much more favorable
match-up this week after wearing down against the strength and athleticism of Auburn. Navy
is a tough team to go-against but this looks like a tough spot and great value on a Louisiana
Tech team that won eight games last year and returns nearly everyone. LA TECH BY 3
Notre Dame (-4½) MICHIGAN 2:30 PM
No two coaches are facing more pressure this season as these once mighty programs have
taken serious falls. This is still a huge series however and both teams passed with flying
colors in tricky opening games last week. Michigan has covered in just two of the last ten
home games but playing as a home underdog is a different situation and that has happened
just three times in the last eight years. Both teams moved the ball with ease last week with
success on the ground and through the air. Defensively Michigan looks capable of making
Notre Dame one-dimensional which could be the key to this game. Notre Dame allowed 300
yards despite the shutout and Michigan could have had a shutout if they wanted to,
completely laying off in the second half. The Wolverines did not score at all and allowed
Western Michigan’s lone touchdown in the 4th quarter. Last season Notre Dame won 35-17 at
home but Irish caught a ton of breaks in that game with turnovers and actually only had 260
yards of offense compared to nearly 400 from Michigan. MICHIGAN BY 7
BOBBY DALTON COLLEGE FOOTBALL BEST BETS!
Opening Week 10* won with Nebraska 49-3
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WASHINGTON (-20½) Idaho 2:30 PM
When you think about it, a team that has lost 15 consecutive games probably shouldn’t be
favored by over 20 points against anyone but the Huskies proved a lot last week against LSU.
The non-conference games for Washington have been so brutally tough in recent years that
this is a huge drop in competition and Idaho will face a second straight road game coming off
a rare win last week. Washington out-gained LSU last week 478-321 and Jake Locker
reminded everyone how talented he is and his loss was a huge part of last season’s slide.
Idaho came up with a few big plays and faced a New Mexico State squad in transition and the
Vandals had incredible success on third downs in that game. Washington is on a long losing
streak that should be snapped this week and the Huskies will not pull back on the way to
getting that first win. Idaho allowed over 470 yards per game last season and this will be a far
tougher match-up than faced last week. WASHINGTON BY 28
UAB (-11) Smu 3:00 PM
Both of these teams will be more offensive oriented and UAB had a terrific opening effort with
a 44-24 win and over 500 yards of offense. SMU also picked up a win last week but it was
against a much lesser opponent and in much less impressive fashion. SMU trailed 23-14
entering the 4th quarter against Stephen F. Austin but found away to put together a few late
drives while also catching a break with a missed field goal from SFA. SMU allowed 460 yards
in that game which could be problematic going on the road to face a Blazers team that returns
all eleven offensive starters from last season. Rice was a bowl team last year and UAB won
with ease last week despite two turnovers and 111 yards in penalties. SMU won just once last
season and not against a FBS team but the Mustangs will be improved this season and could
make some noise late in C-USA play but the experience edge and past success for UAB on
offense should factor prominently in this early season game. UAB BY 14
Pittsburgh (-11) BUFFALO 6:00 PM
Coming off a MAC championship season where Buffalo was extremely fortunate, the Bulls
faced about as tough of a conventional situation as could be had last week and still won. As
happened a few times last season, Buffalo was out-gained and won. The Bulls caught a few
breaks with a fumble that turned into a safety as well as som e key penalties but what has
been accomplished by Coach Turner Gill has been remarkable with a program that was
historically bad just a few years ago. Last season Buffalo lost by just eleven at Pittsburgh in a
game that was incredibly even statistically. Last week Pittsburgh won 38-3 over Youngstown
State and the Panthers displayed a dominant defense in that game. Youngstown State was
not a quality FCS team last year so not much should be taken from the opener. Buffalo is
playing a new QB and will face a second straight road contest but this is a team to avoid going
against until further notice as they continue to find ways to win. PITTSBURGH BY 10
Tcu (-12) VIRGINIA 2:30 PM
The Cavaliers committed seven turnovers last week in a 26-14 loss to FCS William & Mary.
The loss may be a low point for embattled coach Al Groh in his ninth year at Virginia. The new
spread offense will obviously take some time to develop and three QBs played last week with
no real success. TCU was one of the few teams to not play las t week so there has been
immense attention place on this game. After seeing BYU earn some national attention last
week the Frogs are ready to prove they are on that same level even though few starters are
back in action from last year’s 11-2 team. Virginia is 15-4 in the last 19 games as home
underdogs but the Cavaliers offense can not be trusted and there will be no looking past this
game for TCU. Virginia has bounced back from opening losses to deliver a win the following
week each of the last three years but one of those wins was against a FCS team and in the
other two the Cavaliers did not come close to covering and this will obviously be a much more
difficult match-up facing a team that needs to make a statement. TCU BY 17
BOSTON COLLEGE (-21) Kent State 1:00 PM
Per usual not much is expected of Boston College this season but this team has won at least
eight games in each of the last seven years as one of the most consistent performers that is
almost always underrated. As a result BC is 62-47-2 ATS since ’00 including 32-19-2 at home.
BC and Kent both delivered shutout wins over FCS teams last week but the Eagles did it a bit
more impressively with 54 points in the head coaching debut of Frank Spaziani. Last season
the Eagles beat Kent 21-0 in Cleveland with turnovers playing a big role. Both teams feature
unproven QBs but there is decent experience throughout the rosters. Kent features a solid
running game with Eugene Jarvis who can be a terror on special teams as well as a receiving
threat. QB Giorgio Morgan threw two interceptions last week and Kent led just 9-0 heading
into the 4th quarter and the offense may have a tough time keeping up in this game. BC BY 24
TEXAS TECH (-26) Rice 6:00 PM
The Red Raiders went 11-2 last year but were a losing ATS team as all spreads are inflated
based on the scoring potential of Texas Tech. Very few players are back with the offense this
season although this is a program that has transitioned the QB and WR positions smoothly in
recent years. Last week the offense passed for 405 yards but just 38 points as QB Taylor
Potts had more interceptions than touchdowns. Rice won ten games last season but struggled
defensively and little appears to have changed in a lopsided loss last week. The Owls figure to
have a much less productive offense this season this is a potentially disastrous match-up for
Rice. Two years ago Tech covered in Houston as a 28-point favorite, winning 59-24 so this is
actually not a bad price on the Red Raiders relatively speaking. Tech averaged 43 points per
game last year and if they get to that mark they will have a good chance of covering as the
defense was better than most realize last season and there are seven returning starters this
year. Rice will have a tough time keeping up or getting any stops. TEXAS TECH BY 31
MINNESOTA (-4½) Air Force 6:00 PM
The Gophers had a fast start before stalling last week but managed to rally to tie the game
late and win in overtime. It was not an impressive showing comparing Syracuse teams of the
past few seasons but there is a legitimate chance that the Orange are improved on defense.
This is a highly anticipated game as Minnesota opens a new outdoor on-campus stadium after
years in the Metrodome. Air Force has brought this line down with a 72-0 win last week but
little weight should be given to the big win over Nicholls State, a team that rates very low at
the FCS level. Minnesota has a veteran offense that should have plenty of scoring
opportunities but stopping the Air Force option attack could be a problem. Minnesota was
more vulnerable against the pass last season and the Gophers could ride some momentum
and an excited fan base into some solid defensive stands. Air Force has often been a very
dangerous underdog but Minnesota has shown the potential to be an explosive offense team
even though it did not have great consistency last week. MINNESOTA BY 6
Hawaii (-3) Washington State @Seattle, WA 6:00 PM
Washington State used two QBs last week but Kevin Lopina appeared to be the more
effective player despite his horrendous numbers last season. The bigger problems for the
Cougars are on defense as Stanford moved the ball with ease on the ground last week in
another lopsided loss for WSU. The Pullman campus has also been hit hard by the flu so it is
likely that some players will see the impact. Hawaii needed a late score to knock off Central
Arkansas last week as turnovers were a big issue even though the Warriors posted big
numbers on offense and senior QB Greg Alexander delivered a strong game. Last season
Hawaii won 24-10 on the islands in game where both QBs hit the ground often with five sacks
each but Hawaii was able to move the ball in the air downfield. Playing in Seattle will not help
the cause for the Cougars and though this is a winnable game it will take a lot of courage to
back Washington State in its current format. HAWAII BY 7
INDIANA (-1½) Western Michigan 11:00 AM
Western Michigan did not put up a strong fight against Michigan last week but this should be a
Big Ten match-up that the Broncos can handle. Indiana barely squeaked by Eastern Kentucky
last week as the running game was ineffective and there were several key mistakes in all
areas of the team. The Hoosiers look drastically like the worst team in the Big Ten and Indiana
lost to two MAC teams last season. Although he did not have a good game last week against
Michigan, Western QB Tim Hiller has 31 starts under his belt and should be one of the top
passers in the MAC. Indiana returns an experienced defense but it was a fairly awful unit last
season, allowing 35 points and 432 yards per game. Junior QB Ben Chappell does not have
much experience and he had two interceptions last week for the Hoosiers. Western Michigan
played Indiana close in ’06 and ’07 and this could be the breakthrough as long as cos tly
turnovers can be avoided. WESTERN MICHIGAN BY 4
MISSOURI (-17) Bowling Green 6:00 PM
Both of these teams put on offensive shows last week and won outright as underdogs.
Missouri crushed Illinois as QB Blaine Gabbert made an extremely impressive debut. The
Missouri defense also made several big plays despite surrendering some yardage. With an
FCS opponent up next there will be no overlooking this game and the Tigers may be better
than many projected this season. Bowling Green underachieved last season and it led to a
coaching change and the new staff delivered a strong start with an impressive win over a
highly regarded Troy squad. The Falcons have a veteran offense but the performance by the
defense was the big story as few players returned from a unit that struggled last season.
Bowling Green did convert three 4th down plays and also caught some breaks with turnovers
so a repeat performance is unlikely. Playing on the road could also be a much different story
and the Tigers should deliver a win in this match-up. MISSOURI BY 21
Kansas (-11) UTEP 6:30 PM
The Jayhawks had nearly 550 yards of offense to wipe out Northern Colorado last week and
the early season schedule is favorable for Kansas with this being the lone road test. UTEP
returns a veteran team that appears poised for a division title run but the opener was ugly, as
a disastrous 2nd quarter led to a loss at home. UTEP did post significant yardage in the game
but could not convert in any big situations while being forced to abandon the running game too
soon. UTEP has not fared well at home ATS and Kansas averaged 33 points per game last
season and returns a great QB in senior Todd Reesing. Since Coach Price took over in El
Paso the Miners have not defeated a BCS conference team and this is a team that is just 9-9
S/U at home the last three years while being a losing team despite modest expectations.
Kansas has a lot to prove and can get the job done. KANSAS BY 14
SOUTHERN MISS (-14½) Central Florida 6:00 PM
The Golden Eagles were a surprise bowl team last year and almost the entire starting lineup
returns this season for Coach Fedora’s second year. Last week against Alcorn State,
Southern Miss posted over 600 yards of offense and this program could return to its status as
a C-USA power that could make noise nationally. Central Florida returns much of its offensive
talent from last year but that was one of the least productive units in the nation, averaging just
230 yards and 16 points per game. The Knights got a win last week but the numbers were not
much better and this year’s defense likely has taken a step back. UCF needed a 4th quarter
score to win last week and Southern Miss should cruise at home. SOUTHERN MISS BY 24
OKLAHOMA STATE (-15) Houston 2:30 PM
On a huge national stage Oklahoma State delivered a monumental win that justifies the high
rankings and expectations. In the early going it didn’t look good but a few big plays turned
things around. This will be a very difficult follow -up game as Houston played tough against the
Cowboys last seas on before losing 56-37 and the Cougars figure to be a high scoring team.
Last week Houston passed for nearly 450 yards and Oklahoma State will be in a very tough
emotional letdown situation. The Cowboys could post big numbers but OSU is going to be
overvalued this week and Houston returns most of the key offensive players from last year’s
team that averaged 40 points per game. OSU has not proven it is ready for the pressure of
elevated expectations and attention as a big favorite. OKLAHOMA STATE BY 10
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BOISE STATE (-35½) Miami, OH 7:00 PM
After hanging close early, Miami lost big last week in a terrible performance all around for the
debut of new coach Mike Haywood. Miami won just two games last season and it will be
another long season this year as the offense takes a different shape and there is little
experienced talent on defense. It would make sense to go against Boise State no matter what
this week based on how huge the game was last week and all the distractions that followed.
Boise clearly was focused on a great game plan against Oregon and there is more work to be
done with chief conference rival Fresno State waiting in line next Friday for what will be the
first road game for the Broncos. Boise State is 35-15 ATS at home the last eight years and
Coac h Chris Peterson has never lost S/U at home. This team continues to defy all doubters
and trying to catch points with a lousy Miami team is not worth the risk. BOISE STATE BY 41
LSU (-15½) Vanderbilt 6:00 PM
The Tigers picked up a win but there were many things to be concerned about after last
week’s win in Seattle. LSU will open the SEC season against Vanderbilt and these teams
have not met since ’05. The Commodores have much of last year’s bowl team back in action
and sophomore Larry Smith played well as the starting QB in a very convincing win last week
over Western Carolina though he eventually left the game. Smith is short on experience but
the running game provided lots of support last week, rushing for 433 yards. The Vandy
defense gave up just four first downs and although LSU has a lot of talent the offense has
limited experience in a few key spots. The Tigers are also just 1-7 ATS in the last eight games
as favorites of ten or more at home and Vanderbilt has become a team that can compete
respectably in the SEC. Coming back from a long road trip and a big win could take a toll on
the Tigers and this seems like a dangerous game. LSU BY 13
Tulsa (-17) NEW MEXICO 7:00 PM
It is an extreme transitional year for the Lobos and it showed last week in an ugly 41-6 loss to
Texas A&M. New Mexico had just six first downs and the defense surrendered over 600
yards. Tulsa won big last Friday but the level of production was below average for the Golden
Hurricanes after averaging 570 yards per game last season. There was talk of Tulsa using
three QBs last week but only G.J. Kinne played and he played well enough that there likely
won’t be talk of a multi-QB offense. Kinne rushed for 77 yards in addition to an efficient day in
the air. Tulsa took the lead early las t week and did not run up the score as often was the case
last season and this will be a second straight road game with a trip to Norman up next. This
could be a tougher spot for Tulsa but trusting New Mexico after an ugly effort last week is not
a viable option at this point in the season. TULSA BY 21
Usc (-6½) OHIO STATE 7:00 PM
Ohio State is now just 1-8 ATS in the last nine home games and the Buckeyes had some
serious concerns raised on defense last week as Navy moved the ball very effectively. The
Buckeyes offense showed a lot of potential but the task this week will obviously be much more
difficult. USC won easily in this match-up last season but RB Chris Wells was injured and QB
Terrelle Pryor had not been fully immersed as the starter yet. The final was also misleading as
an interception return broke the game open late. USC has played several challenging nonconference
games in past years but few that historically would qualify as this tough even
though the Buckeyes have lost some prestige with big bowl game blowout losses and the
narrow escape last week. The Trojans had no problems with a freshmen QB starting last week
but Matt Barkley certainly showed some youth and inexperience early in the game and playing
in a much tougher environment could lead to some mistakes. It didn’t show up in the box
score last week but the USC defense had a lot of mistakes in terms of missed assignments
and general disorder. The Trojans could get away with that type of sloppy play last week but
this is still a team in transition with new coordinators on both sides of the ball. Ohio State
never appeared thoroughly focused last week and perhaps the team is not as good as they
have been in past years but its best performance should be coming for this game. This line is
a bit shocking taken out of context and this is just the third time OSU will play as a home
underdog since Coach Tressel took over the team. OHIO STATE BY 3
Utah (-13½) SAN JOSE STATE 9:30 PM
This will be the first road game for a Utah offense replacing many parts from last year’s
undefeated team. Utah had three turnovers and was far from stout on defense last week in a
comfortable win over in-state rival Utah State but those mistakes led to a missed cover. Utah
has been a fantastic ATS team in recent years in every scenario except as a road favorite and
this could be trickier test than many would expect by glancing at the opening week scores.
San Jose State plays in the WAC as Utah State does and the Spartans whipped the Aggies
30-7 last season for comparisons sake. A veteran team is back for excellent coach Dick
Tomey and San Jose State should not be faulted too severely for losing badly to USC last
week in Los Angeles. The Spartans actually led the first quarter in that game and after a few
big plays took the game out of hand most of the key players rested. San Jose State is 5-2 the
last three years as home underdogs and last season the Spartans creamed MWC opponent
San Diego State at home. Look for Utah to have some setbacks in this road opener and
looking ahead to a big game with Oregon is a possibility. UTAH BY 10
Oregon State (-7½) UNLV 10:00 PM
Oregon State and UNLV both cruised to relatively easy wins last week against FCS foes and
UNLV was actually much more dominant in the box score. The Rebels have expectations of
taking a step forward this season and earning the first bowl trip since the ’00 season as there
is a lot of talent returning for a team that was competitive last year going 5-7 and suffering a
few narrow losses. Last year UNLV beat Arizona State in overtime in Tempe so facing a Pac -
10 opponent will not bring awe. The Beavers return very few players on defense and it
showed last week as Portland State had a lot of success passing the ball and connected for
17 first downs in the game. The Beav er offense has experience and talent that should allow
for another successful year for a program that has quietly won nine or more games each of
the last three years. UNLV is 12-5 the last 17 games as home underdogs and right now the
Rebels appear to be the more complete team. UNLV owns early season home covers versus
Iowa State, Wisconsin, Utah, and BYU the last two years. OREGON STATE BY 4
NEBRASKA (-23½) Arkansas State 1:00 PM
The Cornhuskers won 49-3 last week against another Sun Belt team but it was a tightly
contested first half and for the game both teams had 22 first downs and Nebraska allowed 358
yards despite surrendering just three points. Arkansas State was an even bigger winner last
week with a 61-0 win while allowing only 69 yards but Mississippi Valley State projects as one
of the absolute worst FCS teams. That said Arkansas State will bring confidence to Lincoln
and this Red Wolves team won at Texas A&M last season while also nearly beating Southern
Miss and hanging close for a near shocker two years ago by losing by just eight at Texas.
While Nebraska QB Zac Lee makes just his second ever start, Arkansas State features a
veteran offense from a team that won six games last season. Nebraska also will have a hard
time not looking ahead to a huge national game at Virginia Tech next week. Last season
Arkansas State soundly defeated Nebraska’s opponent last week , Florida Atlantic, and the
Huskers were not as impressive as the score indicated last week. NEBRASKA BY 13
ALABAMA (-33½) Florida International 6:00 PM
After last season’s huge opening win against Clemson the Crimson Tide nearly laid a big egg
with a horrendous effort and a narrow escape as a huge favorite against Tulane the following
week. It will be difficult to avoid a similar letdown again this season. This will be the first game
of the season for Florida International so the focus all summer has been on this match-up and
ten starters from a year ago are back on offense. After going 1-23 in ’06 & ’07, FIU was very
competitive last season w ith five wins and an 8-4 ATS record. The Panthers earned covers
against major conference foes Kansas and South Florida last season and Alabama is just 4-7
as a home favorite since Coach Saban took over. Alabama is historically just 6-15 the last 21
games as double-digit favorites and although the defense looked outstanding last week the
offense has issues and will have a hard time running up a huge score. ALABAMA BY 21
South Florida (-24) WESTERN KENTUCKY 5:30 PM
Western Kentucky was crushed at Tennessee last week and although this will be a rare
opportunity to host a major conference foe the Hilltoppers do not appear to have what it takes
to compete in this type of match-up. Only four starters return on defense and the offense
produced only 83 yards last week. South Florida won easily last week and the Bulls continue a
very light early season schedule. Last week’s opponent Wofford uses an interesting offense
that likely caused the slow start and made the USF defensive numbers look a bit suspect
against the run. South Florida is a talented team with veteran leaders on both sides of the ball,
but the Bulls have been plagued by wild inconsistency. Those lapses have typically come later
in the year however and this should be a decent opportunity for a convincing win as Western
Kentucky will have a very tough time making stops. SOUTH FLORIDA BY 31
FLORIDA (-36) Troy 11:20 PM
Looking ahead to this game may have been an issue last week for a Troy team that most
expected to be a 10-win team as the class of the Sun Belt and the one team from that
conference that could compete in non-conference games. Recall that last season Troy led
LSU 31-10 in the 4th quarter but surrendered an incredible comeback. Troy had serious
trouble running the ball last week and senior QB Levi Brown had a few costly mistakes.
Florida won easily last week but there were some problems as starting tackle Carl Johnson
was injured and the receiving corps had several drops. Florida did not mix things up on
defense at all and casually allowed 323 yards but the intensity will step up this week although
the Gators are likely to still leave things off the table with Tennessee on deck next week. Troy
is 22-13 ATS the last three years and the Trojans will be set for a redeeming effort this week
while Florida will not be interested in earning style points. FLORIDA BY 28
Ohio (-2½) NORTH TEXAS 6:00 PM
North Texas has already matched its 2008 win total delivering a major upset last week on the
road against Ball State. Another MAC team is up next and this time the game is at home in
Denton. The Mean Green projected as a greatly improved team and statistically the yardage
was far more lopsided than the final score was last week as QB Riley Dodge lived up to the
hype in his debut. Ohio could not move the ball on offense last week and some of the same
problems that plagued the Bobcats last year could again be at work as neither QB was
impressive. Ohio is 17-41 S/U on the road the past eight years and the comparisons to last
year’s North Texas team should halt immediately. The Mean Green is much better defensively
and the offense will be tough to keep pace with it, particularly in what may become a tougher
home environment. NORTH TEXAS BY 6
Memphis (NL) MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 6:00 PM
Turnovers killed the opportunities for MTSU last week against Clemson and this will be a
highly anticipated home game for the Blue Raiders facing an in-state team from a bigger
conference. Last season MTSU beat Maryland at home and in ’07 this team nearly beat
Virginia at home so this can be a very tough place to play. Clemson’s defense figures to be
one of the best in the ACC and possibly the nation so the output from the Blue Raiders last
week was commendable and it would have been a much closer game if not for three
interceptions by QB Dwight Dasher and a punt return TD for the Tigers. Memphis was
crushed last week in the annual rivalry game with Ole Miss although the game was far closer
than the final score indicated. This is a game MTSU has keyed in on and the upset is very
possible in what should be a very competitive game. MTSU BY 3
Kansas State (-7½) LOUISIANA 6:00 PM
The Ragin’ Cajuns are 0-4 as home underdogs the past three seasons and although
Louisiana allowed 380 yards last week they won 49-3. Bill Snyder’s return to the sidelines
featured a much tougher game as Kansas State needed to hold off a late rally against FCS
Massachusetts. The Minutemen project as one of the better teams at that level, rating very
comparably with the Northern Iowa team that nearly beat Iowa last week according to the
Sagarin numbers. Louisiana is likely to take a step back after winning six games last season.
For ULL there is a lot of inexperience in key spots on offense though the team made plenty of
plays last week. Expect a strong defensive effort from K-State and this is a cheap price on
what should be a bowl-bound Wildcats team. KANSAS STATE BY 14
Winning Points
****BEST BET
AUBURN* over MISSISSIPPI STATE by 35
It was almost an exact-score win from Auburn at the top of these pages last week,
and we saw exactly what we wanted to see in Gene Chizik’s debut – the offense relished
working in Gus Malzahn’s playbook, with Chris Todd hitting 17-26 for 255
and a pair of scores, while the one-two punch of Ben Tate inside, and Onterio
McCalebb on the perimeter, produced a pair of 100-yard rushers. They will only
get better as they grow in confidence and add more chapters from that playbook,
but in truth it is the defense that takes the lead here. That group only allowed one
touchdown to Louisiana Tech, coming on a drive in which three major penalties
ate up most of the yardage, and they have a chance to control matters completely
here in what has been one of the strongest defense vs. offense series dominations
in recent memory. The Mississippi State 5th year seniors have managed all of one
offensive touchdown and two field goals in four meetings vs. the Tigers, and the
matchup issues might be even worse this time. The personnel is just not there yet
to run Dan Mullen’s spread schemes with any degree of success vs. this class, especially
on the road, and their development in the spring was limited because of key
injuries at the WR spots. Without an ability to control the ball it forces the Bulldog
defense to be on the field far too long, and with only four returning starters that
group is actually a weak link for a change, after allowing 36.5 points per game in
going 1-4 ATS as road underdogs last season, AUBURN 41-6.
***BEST BET
SOUTHERN MISS* over CENTRAL FLORIDA by 31
The 2008 Southern Miss season did not raise a many eyebrows, with the Golden
Eagles barely scraping their way to a .500 regular season, and then rallying to beat
Troy in an uninspiring bowl win. But in truth the first season under Larry Fedora
was a huge success, with his playbook being absorbed much more quickly than we
thought possible given the drastic changes in schemes. The key is that the personnel
were ideal, with Austin Davis having an outstanding freshman season at QB
(3,128 passing yards, with 23 TD’s vs. only eight interceptions, and 508 more on
the ground), Damion Fletcher running for 1,313 yards at 6.0 per pop, and four
different receivers catching at least 33 passes. Now the major keys are back except
for TE Shawn Nelson, who can be replaced, and the OL returns every starter. That
means a chance to pick up right where they left off, and perhaps to even magnify
that in the second go-round of these systems, which means adding new layers. That
spells bad news for George O’Leary, who saw his Golden Knights humbled much
worse than the 17-6 final score at Orlando last year, with Southern running 88
plays to 49, and leading 22-10 in first downs. Now we see the gap as being even
wider, with UCF lacking playmakers anywhere on offense. It is not easy to average
16.6 points and 230 yards per game in this day and age, which they did last year,
and the 14 first downs and 282 yards vs. Samford in the opener confirms our suspicions
about the lack of talent at the skill positions. SOUTHERN MISS 41-10.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
**PREFERRED
North Carolina over Connecticut* by 14
There is a perception that these two programs are on an even footing, with Randy
Edsell and Butch Davis both doing a good job of getting their teams into bowls,
and in the huut for more of the same again. We see a difference, however, as Davis
has been able to recruit better personnel to Chapel Hill, particularly on defense,
where there is an outside chance that every member of the two-deep in the DL will
end up in an NFL training camp. And it is that defense that controls this one. The
Huskies were able to survive offensively last year because of the brilliance of
Donald Brown, who ran for 2,083 yards and 18 TD’s. But without that threat far
too much falls on the shoulders of QB Zach Frazier, who had an awful 6:2 ratio of
interceptions to TD passes as a sophomore, and picked up right where he left off
at Ohio U. last week, throwing three picks despite never trailing for a single snap.
Frazier gets rattled by both the Tar Heel pass rush and the speed of the secondary
here, and those same mistakes happen again. NORTH CAROLINA 30-16.
U.A.B.* over S.M.U. by 22
It has been chic in many pre-season publications to call for S.M.U. to make some
strides in the second season under June Jones, but we do not share any of that optimism.
A program that is off of back-to-back 1-11 campaigns has a long way to go
before they can be competitive, and we are not convinced that Jones is the answer.
Yes, there are some impressive cycles in that resume, and for many years he was
indeed way ahead of the game in terms of the spread passing attack. These days
most defenses see something similar week in and week out, which means that he
will have to win with players, not tactics. The current roster does not bring the
kind of playmakers to open up his playbook yet, while a defense that has allowed
39.8 and 38.2 the past two seasons does not show any reason for optimism. That
means a chance for the drastically improved Blazers to build on that easy win over
Rice, a game in which Joe Webb produced over 400 yards of total offense, and
Webb’s size makes it difficult for that small Mustang defensive front to create any
pressure. U.A.B. 42-20.
Boston College* over Kent State by 10
That opening rout of Northeastern may lead the public to believe that all is well at
Chestnut Hill, but that is hardly the case. A defense that is usually so sound in the
trenches lost 1st (B. J. Raji) and 2nd (Ron Brace) round draft picks in the DL, and
unfortunate circumstances have them without LB’s Mark Herzlich and Mike
McLaughlin, the guys they expected to be the leaders while the young DL matured
on the job. Yet for all of the problems the defense is still the strength of the team,
with the offense still not having a clear #1 QB, a picture that may have actually
grown more muddled on Saturday, when Frank Spaziani used four different signal
callers. Without the ability to strike quickly on offense, and with the defense vulnerable
to the kind of cutbacks that Eugene Jarvis can make behind that veteran
Kent OL, this one does not come easily at all, particularly with the distraction of
that key A.C.C. revenge affair at Clemson that is immediately on deck. Even with
a full focus this would not come easily. BOSTON COLLEGE 24-14.
Tulsa over New Mexico* by 26
There are going to be a lot of growing pains with these Lobos, who are trying to
get new schemes in play on both sides of the ball, and the matchups on defense
look disastrous this week. After getting rocked 56-14 at Tulsa last year, when they
allowed 606 yards, now they not only have new faces throughout the defensive
huddle, but also a crew of coaches that will be seeing the Golden Hurricane playbook
for the first time. That creates an uphill battle, as Tulsa brings a veritable
encyclopedia of offensive options to the table, and the New Mexico confidence will
be at an absolute low ebb after Texas A&M’s uninspiring attack rang up the same
count of 606 yards that Tulsa took them for last year. The Lobos were not able to
stop the run (245 yards at 5.2 per carry) or the pass (32-43 without an interception),
which opens the door for a Tulsa attack that loves to dictate the flow to be
running and passing downhill all evening. And without a ground game of their
own, DeWayne Walker’s team can‘t even work the tempo to try to keep this reasonable.
TULSA 42-16.
****BEST BET
AUBURN* over MISSISSIPPI STATE by 35
It was almost an exact-score win from Auburn at the top of these pages last week,
and we saw exactly what we wanted to see in Gene Chizik’s debut – the offense relished
working in Gus Malzahn’s playbook, with Chris Todd hitting 17-26 for 255
and a pair of scores, while the one-two punch of Ben Tate inside, and Onterio
McCalebb on the perimeter, produced a pair of 100-yard rushers. They will only
get better as they grow in confidence and add more chapters from that playbook,
but in truth it is the defense that takes the lead here. That group only allowed one
touchdown to Louisiana Tech, coming on a drive in which three major penalties
ate up most of the yardage, and they have a chance to control matters completely
here in what has been one of the strongest defense vs. offense series dominations
in recent memory. The Mississippi State 5th year seniors have managed all of one
offensive touchdown and two field goals in four meetings vs. the Tigers, and the
matchup issues might be even worse this time. The personnel is just not there yet
to run Dan Mullen’s spread schemes with any degree of success vs. this class, especially
on the road, and their development in the spring was limited because of key
injuries at the WR spots. Without an ability to control the ball it forces the Bulldog
defense to be on the field far too long, and with only four returning starters that
group is actually a weak link for a change, after allowing 36.5 points per game in
going 1-4 ATS as road underdogs last season, AUBURN 41-6.
***BEST BET
SOUTHERN MISS* over CENTRAL FLORIDA by 31
The 2008 Southern Miss season did not raise a many eyebrows, with the Golden
Eagles barely scraping their way to a .500 regular season, and then rallying to beat
Troy in an uninspiring bowl win. But in truth the first season under Larry Fedora
was a huge success, with his playbook being absorbed much more quickly than we
thought possible given the drastic changes in schemes. The key is that the personnel
were ideal, with Austin Davis having an outstanding freshman season at QB
(3,128 passing yards, with 23 TD’s vs. only eight interceptions, and 508 more on
the ground), Damion Fletcher running for 1,313 yards at 6.0 per pop, and four
different receivers catching at least 33 passes. Now the major keys are back except
for TE Shawn Nelson, who can be replaced, and the OL returns every starter. That
means a chance to pick up right where they left off, and perhaps to even magnify
that in the second go-round of these systems, which means adding new layers. That
spells bad news for George O’Leary, who saw his Golden Knights humbled much
worse than the 17-6 final score at Orlando last year, with Southern running 88
plays to 49, and leading 22-10 in first downs. Now we see the gap as being even
wider, with UCF lacking playmakers anywhere on offense. It is not easy to average
16.6 points and 230 yards per game in this day and age, which they did last year,
and the 14 first downs and 282 yards vs. Samford in the opener confirms our suspicions
about the lack of talent at the skill positions. SOUTHERN MISS 41-10.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
**PREFERRED
North Carolina over Connecticut* by 14
There is a perception that these two programs are on an even footing, with Randy
Edsell and Butch Davis both doing a good job of getting their teams into bowls,
and in the huut for more of the same again. We see a difference, however, as Davis
has been able to recruit better personnel to Chapel Hill, particularly on defense,
where there is an outside chance that every member of the two-deep in the DL will
end up in an NFL training camp. And it is that defense that controls this one. The
Huskies were able to survive offensively last year because of the brilliance of
Donald Brown, who ran for 2,083 yards and 18 TD’s. But without that threat far
too much falls on the shoulders of QB Zach Frazier, who had an awful 6:2 ratio of
interceptions to TD passes as a sophomore, and picked up right where he left off
at Ohio U. last week, throwing three picks despite never trailing for a single snap.
Frazier gets rattled by both the Tar Heel pass rush and the speed of the secondary
here, and those same mistakes happen again. NORTH CAROLINA 30-16.
U.A.B.* over S.M.U. by 22
It has been chic in many pre-season publications to call for S.M.U. to make some
strides in the second season under June Jones, but we do not share any of that optimism.
A program that is off of back-to-back 1-11 campaigns has a long way to go
before they can be competitive, and we are not convinced that Jones is the answer.
Yes, there are some impressive cycles in that resume, and for many years he was
indeed way ahead of the game in terms of the spread passing attack. These days
most defenses see something similar week in and week out, which means that he
will have to win with players, not tactics. The current roster does not bring the
kind of playmakers to open up his playbook yet, while a defense that has allowed
39.8 and 38.2 the past two seasons does not show any reason for optimism. That
means a chance for the drastically improved Blazers to build on that easy win over
Rice, a game in which Joe Webb produced over 400 yards of total offense, and
Webb’s size makes it difficult for that small Mustang defensive front to create any
pressure. U.A.B. 42-20.
Boston College* over Kent State by 10
That opening rout of Northeastern may lead the public to believe that all is well at
Chestnut Hill, but that is hardly the case. A defense that is usually so sound in the
trenches lost 1st (B. J. Raji) and 2nd (Ron Brace) round draft picks in the DL, and
unfortunate circumstances have them without LB’s Mark Herzlich and Mike
McLaughlin, the guys they expected to be the leaders while the young DL matured
on the job. Yet for all of the problems the defense is still the strength of the team,
with the offense still not having a clear #1 QB, a picture that may have actually
grown more muddled on Saturday, when Frank Spaziani used four different signal
callers. Without the ability to strike quickly on offense, and with the defense vulnerable
to the kind of cutbacks that Eugene Jarvis can make behind that veteran
Kent OL, this one does not come easily at all, particularly with the distraction of
that key A.C.C. revenge affair at Clemson that is immediately on deck. Even with
a full focus this would not come easily. BOSTON COLLEGE 24-14.
Tulsa over New Mexico* by 26
There are going to be a lot of growing pains with these Lobos, who are trying to
get new schemes in play on both sides of the ball, and the matchups on defense
look disastrous this week. After getting rocked 56-14 at Tulsa last year, when they
allowed 606 yards, now they not only have new faces throughout the defensive
huddle, but also a crew of coaches that will be seeing the Golden Hurricane playbook
for the first time. That creates an uphill battle, as Tulsa brings a veritable
encyclopedia of offensive options to the table, and the New Mexico confidence will
be at an absolute low ebb after Texas A&M’s uninspiring attack rang up the same
count of 606 yards that Tulsa took them for last year. The Lobos were not able to
stop the run (245 yards at 5.2 per carry) or the pass (32-43 without an interception),
which opens the door for a Tulsa attack that loves to dictate the flow to be
running and passing downhill all evening. And without a ground game of their
own, DeWayne Walker’s team can‘t even work the tempo to try to keep this reasonable.
TULSA 42-16.
Free college football pick from: Allen Eastman - Take ‘Over’ 52.5 Memphis at Middle Tennessee State (7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12)
Here we have two spread offenses going up against two weak defenses and we should see some points here. Both defenses gave up 35 or more points last week against BCS teams and watched their own offenses scuffle. I think the points will be there again and the defense will not. Dating back to last year MTSU has gone ‘over’ in six of eight games.
Here we have two spread offenses going up against two weak defenses and we should see some points here. Both defenses gave up 35 or more points last week against BCS teams and watched their own offenses scuffle. I think the points will be there again and the defense will not. Dating back to last year MTSU has gone ‘over’ in six of eight games.
Free college football pick from: Strike Point Sports - Take Western Michigan +1 over Indiana (Saturday, 12 p.m. EST)
For the second straight weekend to begin the season, the Broncos find themselves on the road against a Big Ten team. And while the first go-round didn't fair so well in Ann Arbor against Michigan, this match-up bodes well for the MAC rep. Indiana is, well, let's just say far less capable than the Maize and Blue. The Hoosiers had to grind out a victory in their opening against lowly Eastern Kentucky, and I think that's the kind of year it will be in Bloomington. Broncos quarterback Tim Hiller is the player to watch and will be the best player on the field this Saturday. Not his best effort in the Big House, but his 36 TDs and 3,700+ yards last season shows he is one of the better gunslingers in the country. WMU bounces back with a victory over Indiana, led by their senior signal caller.
For the second straight weekend to begin the season, the Broncos find themselves on the road against a Big Ten team. And while the first go-round didn't fair so well in Ann Arbor against Michigan, this match-up bodes well for the MAC rep. Indiana is, well, let's just say far less capable than the Maize and Blue. The Hoosiers had to grind out a victory in their opening against lowly Eastern Kentucky, and I think that's the kind of year it will be in Bloomington. Broncos quarterback Tim Hiller is the player to watch and will be the best player on the field this Saturday. Not his best effort in the Big House, but his 36 TDs and 3,700+ yards last season shows he is one of the better gunslingers in the country. WMU bounces back with a victory over Indiana, led by their senior signal caller.
Black Widow
NCAA-F | Sep 12
TCU vs. Virginia TCU
-10½-107 at 5DIMES > 1d.
Widow’s CFB Free Pick for Saturday:
1* on TCU -10.5
TCU heads to Virginia to take on a team that had perhaps the worst loss in Week 1. The Cavaliers lost at home 26-14 to William & Mary, committing 7 turnovers in the process. Clearly, they’ll be looking to bounce back this week but it won’t be easy against a very good TCU team that has BCS aspirations. But it’s also clear that Virginia is lacking talent. The Cavaliers return just 11 starters this season, and they still have no idea who to play at quarterback. Their QB’s combined for 130 yards passing in the opener with 0 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. This team is clearly in rebuilding mode. TCU, on the other hand, is primed for a BCS run with a plethora of talent back on offense. QB Andy Dalton and a stable of talented running backs return to lead an offense that finished second in the MWC with 421 yards per game. Their defense gave up 217 yards per game last year, good for No. 1 in the country. The Horned Frogs are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a favorite of 10.5 or greater. TCU is 25-10 ATS in their last 35 games as a favorite overall. Virginia is 3-9 ATS in their last 12 non-conference games and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. MWC foes. Take TCU and lay the points.
NCAA-F | Sep 12
TCU vs. Virginia TCU
-10½-107 at 5DIMES > 1d.
Widow’s CFB Free Pick for Saturday:
1* on TCU -10.5
TCU heads to Virginia to take on a team that had perhaps the worst loss in Week 1. The Cavaliers lost at home 26-14 to William & Mary, committing 7 turnovers in the process. Clearly, they’ll be looking to bounce back this week but it won’t be easy against a very good TCU team that has BCS aspirations. But it’s also clear that Virginia is lacking talent. The Cavaliers return just 11 starters this season, and they still have no idea who to play at quarterback. Their QB’s combined for 130 yards passing in the opener with 0 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. This team is clearly in rebuilding mode. TCU, on the other hand, is primed for a BCS run with a plethora of talent back on offense. QB Andy Dalton and a stable of talented running backs return to lead an offense that finished second in the MWC with 421 yards per game. Their defense gave up 217 yards per game last year, good for No. 1 in the country. The Horned Frogs are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a favorite of 10.5 or greater. TCU is 25-10 ATS in their last 35 games as a favorite overall. Virginia is 3-9 ATS in their last 12 non-conference games and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games vs. MWC foes. Take TCU and lay the points.
Vernon Croy
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Notre Dame vs. Michigan Michigan
+3½-110 at SIA > 1d.
1* Take the Michigan Wolverines ATS, We are getting very good line value here with the Wolverines Saturday afternoon since they will be able to move the ball on the ground. Michigan rushed for 242 yards in their first game of the season and I look for them to dominate the tempo of this game by establishing a solid running game which will wear down the Fighting Irish defense. Michigan held the Fighting Irish scoreless in their previous two home games against them and Michigan's defense looked solid last week against the Western Michigan Broncos holding them to just 7 points. The Michigan defense allowed just 38 total rushing yards last week and just an average of 1.6 yards per rush while the Notre Dame defense allowed 153 total rushing yards and 5.3 yards per rush. Michigan dominates this game on the ground Saturday afternoon which will keep the Notre Dame offense off the field and wear down the Fighting Irish defense. Take the Michigan Wolverines as my NCAA Football Bonus Play for Saturday afternoon.
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Notre Dame vs. Michigan Michigan
+3½-110 at SIA > 1d.
1* Take the Michigan Wolverines ATS, We are getting very good line value here with the Wolverines Saturday afternoon since they will be able to move the ball on the ground. Michigan rushed for 242 yards in their first game of the season and I look for them to dominate the tempo of this game by establishing a solid running game which will wear down the Fighting Irish defense. Michigan held the Fighting Irish scoreless in their previous two home games against them and Michigan's defense looked solid last week against the Western Michigan Broncos holding them to just 7 points. The Michigan defense allowed just 38 total rushing yards last week and just an average of 1.6 yards per rush while the Notre Dame defense allowed 153 total rushing yards and 5.3 yards per rush. Michigan dominates this game on the ground Saturday afternoon which will keep the Notre Dame offense off the field and wear down the Fighting Irish defense. Take the Michigan Wolverines as my NCAA Football Bonus Play for Saturday afternoon.
Info Plays
NCAA-F | Sep 12
BYU vs. Tulane BYU
-17-110 at BOOKM > 1d.
InfoPlays Saturday, September 12th NCAA Football Bonus Play:
3* on BYU -17
Reasons why BYU covers the spread:
1.) Most may be predicting a letdown for BYU here, but we don't see it happening this early in the season. The Cougars proved they are for real with a 14-13 victory over then-No. 3 Oklahoma last week. Their defense was the big surprise, but considering the Cougars returned 8 starters on the stop unit it shouldn't be that big of a shocker. They also have all-everything QB Max Hall back, and all he did last week was pass for 329 yards against a very good Sooners' defense. Tulane lost 13-37 in their home opener last week to Tulsa, and the Cougars are a far more talented team, especially defensively, than the Golden Hurricane are this season. Tulsa put up 201 rushing yards and 211 passing yards on only 20 attempts in that game, so it appears once again this Tulane defense cannot stop anybody after going 2-10 last year.
2.) System Play. We'll Play On - Favorites of 10.5 to 21 points (BYU) - good passing team from last season - averaged 8 or more passing yards/attempt, in non-conference games. This is a 27-6 ATS System hitting 81.8% over the last 5 seasons. Also Tulane is 6-19 ATS in home games after allowing 37 points or more since 1992. This is a complete mismatch and the final score will show it. Bet BYU on the road.
NCAA-F | Sep 12
BYU vs. Tulane BYU
-17-110 at BOOKM > 1d.
InfoPlays Saturday, September 12th NCAA Football Bonus Play:
3* on BYU -17
Reasons why BYU covers the spread:
1.) Most may be predicting a letdown for BYU here, but we don't see it happening this early in the season. The Cougars proved they are for real with a 14-13 victory over then-No. 3 Oklahoma last week. Their defense was the big surprise, but considering the Cougars returned 8 starters on the stop unit it shouldn't be that big of a shocker. They also have all-everything QB Max Hall back, and all he did last week was pass for 329 yards against a very good Sooners' defense. Tulane lost 13-37 in their home opener last week to Tulsa, and the Cougars are a far more talented team, especially defensively, than the Golden Hurricane are this season. Tulsa put up 201 rushing yards and 211 passing yards on only 20 attempts in that game, so it appears once again this Tulane defense cannot stop anybody after going 2-10 last year.
2.) System Play. We'll Play On - Favorites of 10.5 to 21 points (BYU) - good passing team from last season - averaged 8 or more passing yards/attempt, in non-conference games. This is a 27-6 ATS System hitting 81.8% over the last 5 seasons. Also Tulane is 6-19 ATS in home games after allowing 37 points or more since 1992. This is a complete mismatch and the final score will show it. Bet BYU on the road.
John Martin
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Air Force vs. Minnesota U Air Force
+3½-110 at BETUS > 1d.
Martin’s Saturday NCAA Football Bonus Play:
1 Unit on Air Force +3.5
Air Force is one of the better teams in the MWC that nobody is talking about. That's because this conference is so stacked, that Air Force is picked to finish 4th in the league with teams like BYU, TCU and Utah ahead of them. All Air Force did in their Week 1 game was beat Nicholls State 72-0 while putting up 474 rushing yards. I don't care if they were playing a high school team, that's still impressive. Minnesota went into Syracuse last week as a 7-point favorite and were lucky to escape with a 23-20 win in overtime. They won't be so fortunate this week because Air Force is the real deal. The Falcons are 11-0 ATS when the total is between 42.5 and 49 over the last 3 seasons. Air Force is 8-0 ATS after playing a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons. The Falcons are 9-1 ATS llowing 14 points or less last game over the last 3 seasons. Cash in with Air Force as the underdog.
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Air Force vs. Minnesota U Air Force
+3½-110 at BETUS > 1d.
Martin’s Saturday NCAA Football Bonus Play:
1 Unit on Air Force +3.5
Air Force is one of the better teams in the MWC that nobody is talking about. That's because this conference is so stacked, that Air Force is picked to finish 4th in the league with teams like BYU, TCU and Utah ahead of them. All Air Force did in their Week 1 game was beat Nicholls State 72-0 while putting up 474 rushing yards. I don't care if they were playing a high school team, that's still impressive. Minnesota went into Syracuse last week as a 7-point favorite and were lucky to escape with a 23-20 win in overtime. They won't be so fortunate this week because Air Force is the real deal. The Falcons are 11-0 ATS when the total is between 42.5 and 49 over the last 3 seasons. Air Force is 8-0 ATS after playing a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons. The Falcons are 9-1 ATS llowing 14 points or less last game over the last 3 seasons. Cash in with Air Force as the underdog.
Craig Trapp
NCAA-F | Sep 12
BYU vs. Tulane Tulane
+17½-110 at BETUS > 1d.
Trap games usually happen when a team is looking ahead or coming off a very tough fought win. Well BYU is coming off both of these. BYU pulled a huge upset in week 1 of college football beating power house Oklahoma. They have moved up in the ranking to #9 earning a ton of respect from voters. Tulane was beat very handily at home verse Tulsa this past Saturday so I am sure BYU will be thinking this one is in the bag. Even more likely is BYU is looking forward to Week 3 and a huge home game against Florida State.
Pretty hard to just smell the perfume that everyone is spraying and this young team has to be tempted to drink the perfume. Now I am not saying that BYU is going to lose to Tulane but do think that the Green Wave will be pumped and give them a good first half.
BYU is one of the most penalized teams in College Football and with all the distractions and media attention has to make it tough for BYU to concentrate on preparation this week. They better not sleep on Tulane as they are much better than they looked against Tulsa.
Don't fall into the Trap this week instead take the +17.5 and Tulane.
NCAA-F | Sep 12
BYU vs. Tulane Tulane
+17½-110 at BETUS > 1d.
Trap games usually happen when a team is looking ahead or coming off a very tough fought win. Well BYU is coming off both of these. BYU pulled a huge upset in week 1 of college football beating power house Oklahoma. They have moved up in the ranking to #9 earning a ton of respect from voters. Tulane was beat very handily at home verse Tulsa this past Saturday so I am sure BYU will be thinking this one is in the bag. Even more likely is BYU is looking forward to Week 3 and a huge home game against Florida State.
Pretty hard to just smell the perfume that everyone is spraying and this young team has to be tempted to drink the perfume. Now I am not saying that BYU is going to lose to Tulane but do think that the Green Wave will be pumped and give them a good first half.
BYU is one of the most penalized teams in College Football and with all the distractions and media attention has to make it tough for BYU to concentrate on preparation this week. They better not sleep on Tulane as they are much better than they looked against Tulsa.
Don't fall into the Trap this week instead take the +17.5 and Tulane.
Steve Zukiel
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Pittsburgh U vs. Buffalo U Buffalo U
+10½-110 at BOOKM > 1d.
NCAA Football
345 Pittsburgh vs 346 Buffalo
Saturday, September 12th, 2008
12:00 pm est, 9:00 am pacific
Line: Pittsburgh(-11)
Rating: EZ Free Winner
In this contest, my money is on the Buffalo Bulls.
Pittsburgh as not been a good favorite as of late, as they are just
2-7 ATS in their last nine giving up points. Meanwhile, the Buffalo
Bulls, an outright underdog winner last week, is now an amazing 10-1 ATS
in their last 11 in that role. Pittsburgh's QB Stull only passed for
49 yards in the first half against Youngstown State last week. I like
what Turner Gill has done with this Bulls' squad and I am not saying
they are going to win this football game, but I do believe they are
going to stay within the number. Take Buffalo.
STEVE ZUKIEL TAKES THE BUFFALO BULLS OVER THE PITTSBURGH PANTHERS
AS AN EZ FREE WINNER
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Pittsburgh U vs. Buffalo U Buffalo U
+10½-110 at BOOKM > 1d.
NCAA Football
345 Pittsburgh vs 346 Buffalo
Saturday, September 12th, 2008
12:00 pm est, 9:00 am pacific
Line: Pittsburgh(-11)
Rating: EZ Free Winner
In this contest, my money is on the Buffalo Bulls.
Pittsburgh as not been a good favorite as of late, as they are just
2-7 ATS in their last nine giving up points. Meanwhile, the Buffalo
Bulls, an outright underdog winner last week, is now an amazing 10-1 ATS
in their last 11 in that role. Pittsburgh's QB Stull only passed for
49 yards in the first half against Youngstown State last week. I like
what Turner Gill has done with this Bulls' squad and I am not saying
they are going to win this football game, but I do believe they are
going to stay within the number. Take Buffalo.
STEVE ZUKIEL TAKES THE BUFFALO BULLS OVER THE PITTSBURGH PANTHERS
AS AN EZ FREE WINNER
Carlo Campanella
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Stanford vs. Wake Forest Stanford
+3+100 at 5DIMES > 1d.
Both teams opened their season last Saturday, with the much
improved Stanford squad destroying Washington State on
their own turf, 39-13. Stanford finished at 5-7 in an extremely
tough PAC 10 Conference last season, but played
well and returned 17 of 22 starters from that squad. Wake
Forest lost their home opener, 24-21, to an improving Baylor
team that was only 4-8 last season. Wake Forest returned
senior QB Riley Skinner, however, they have many holes on
the defensive side of the ball. Last Saturday they allowed
Baylor to put up 197 rushing yards and things will only be
tougher this weekend against a Stanford offense led by RB
Gerhart that gained an incredible 288 rushing yards! Last
year Gerhart gained 1,176 rushing yards on an 5.4 yards per
carry! With the public backing Wake Forest, feeling that
they won’t lose back-to-back home games behind senior QB
Riley Skinner, we’ll take the points with a Stanford squad
that will dominate the line of scrimmage.
7* PLAY ON Stanford
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Stanford vs. Wake Forest Stanford
+3+100 at 5DIMES > 1d.
Both teams opened their season last Saturday, with the much
improved Stanford squad destroying Washington State on
their own turf, 39-13. Stanford finished at 5-7 in an extremely
tough PAC 10 Conference last season, but played
well and returned 17 of 22 starters from that squad. Wake
Forest lost their home opener, 24-21, to an improving Baylor
team that was only 4-8 last season. Wake Forest returned
senior QB Riley Skinner, however, they have many holes on
the defensive side of the ball. Last Saturday they allowed
Baylor to put up 197 rushing yards and things will only be
tougher this weekend against a Stanford offense led by RB
Gerhart that gained an incredible 288 rushing yards! Last
year Gerhart gained 1,176 rushing yards on an 5.4 yards per
carry! With the public backing Wake Forest, feeling that
they won’t lose back-to-back home games behind senior QB
Riley Skinner, we’ll take the points with a Stanford squad
that will dominate the line of scrimmage.
7* PLAY ON Stanford
Matt Fargo
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Purdue vs. Oregon Oregon
-12-105 at 5DIMES > 1d.
I was on Oregon in Week One against Boise St. and the Ducks were dominated on the road. The big story was obviously the punch thrown by LeGarrette Blount and his loss will no doubt hurt the Ducks this season but this game will not factor in as much. The Ducks know they are a tarnished team right now so they will be out to prove something this week against a Big Ten team. It is expected to be a long year for Purdue this season. The Boilermakers are coming off a 21-point victory over Toledo in their opener but it was not as impressive as that final margin indicates. They outgained the Rockets by just 42 total yards and the defense, which was supposed to be the strength, allowed 493 total yards. The offense really looked good as Purdue brought in nine new starters and tallied 535 yards of total offense but that came against Toledo who was 77th in the country in total defense a season ago. The Oregon defense did a very good job against a very potent Boise St. offense as it held the Broncos to just 338 yards and 19 points and that was on the blue turf in Boise. A return home to Autzen Stadium should fire this team up even more. The Ducks came away with a victory last season in Lafayette in overtime so they will not be looking past the Boilermakers in this one. Purdue jumped ahead early in that game but Oregon fought back and ended up outgaining the Boilermakers by close to 100 total yards. Based on last year’s outcome as well as the results of the first week, this line may seem high and the public is biting on it already yet the number is moving the other way. I expect Jeremiah Masoli to have a big game here as he did not play well last week and he came in touted as a possible sleeper Heisman candidate. The Boilermakers gave up 423 yards passing last week and that does not bode well considering it is 2-12-2 ATS in its last 16 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game. Oregon meanwhile is 12-3 ATS in its last 15 home games as a favorite of 10.5 or more points and falls into a solid situation carrying over from last season. Play on home favorites in the first month of the season, after closing out last season with four or more straight wins and finished with a winning record overall. This situation is 30-9 ATS (76.9 percent) over the last five seasons with the average point differential being +28.8 ppg. 3* Oregon Ducks
NCAA-F | Sep 12
Purdue vs. Oregon Oregon
-12-105 at 5DIMES > 1d.
I was on Oregon in Week One against Boise St. and the Ducks were dominated on the road. The big story was obviously the punch thrown by LeGarrette Blount and his loss will no doubt hurt the Ducks this season but this game will not factor in as much. The Ducks know they are a tarnished team right now so they will be out to prove something this week against a Big Ten team. It is expected to be a long year for Purdue this season. The Boilermakers are coming off a 21-point victory over Toledo in their opener but it was not as impressive as that final margin indicates. They outgained the Rockets by just 42 total yards and the defense, which was supposed to be the strength, allowed 493 total yards. The offense really looked good as Purdue brought in nine new starters and tallied 535 yards of total offense but that came against Toledo who was 77th in the country in total defense a season ago. The Oregon defense did a very good job against a very potent Boise St. offense as it held the Broncos to just 338 yards and 19 points and that was on the blue turf in Boise. A return home to Autzen Stadium should fire this team up even more. The Ducks came away with a victory last season in Lafayette in overtime so they will not be looking past the Boilermakers in this one. Purdue jumped ahead early in that game but Oregon fought back and ended up outgaining the Boilermakers by close to 100 total yards. Based on last year’s outcome as well as the results of the first week, this line may seem high and the public is biting on it already yet the number is moving the other way. I expect Jeremiah Masoli to have a big game here as he did not play well last week and he came in touted as a possible sleeper Heisman candidate. The Boilermakers gave up 423 yards passing last week and that does not bode well considering it is 2-12-2 ATS in its last 16 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game. Oregon meanwhile is 12-3 ATS in its last 15 home games as a favorite of 10.5 or more points and falls into a solid situation carrying over from last season. Play on home favorites in the first month of the season, after closing out last season with four or more straight wins and finished with a winning record overall. This situation is 30-9 ATS (76.9 percent) over the last five seasons with the average point differential being +28.8 ppg. 3* Oregon Ducks
Alex Smart
Central Michigan +14.5 (-110)
Sat Sep 12 '09 12:00p
Central Michigan travels 70 miles south on U.S. Route 127 to visit Michigan State Saturday afternoon in a interesting non conference battle .Central Michigan of the MAC enters into this tilt vs Big 12 favorite Michigan State as worthy underdogs in this spot . I'm betting on the big arm of QB Dan LeFevour,one of the all time top NCAA career yards leaders (11,828 Total yards) to be on display for NFL scouts , vs a Michigan State side that is highly likely to be looking ahead to next weeks confrontation with their long time rivals Notre Dame. I know the vaunted Chippewas offense looked muted last week, vs the Arizona Wildcats in a sleepy 16-9 loss covering as 13.5 point dogs ,but what was impressive was a Chips D, that allowed a PAC 10 side to just six first downs in 16 third downs situations for a lowly (37.5 percent), including 3-for-10 on third downs on CMU’s side of the 50-yard line. I also know Michigan State was explosive in 44-3 win vs lower tier Montana State , but after that kind of adrenalin filled effort, a let down performance is a strong possibility. Final notes & Key Trends: Michigan State has covered just 1 game in their L/9 opportunities before playing the Fighting Irish. Central Michigan is 3-0 ATS L/3 vs Big 10 and 9-0-2 ATS in their L/11 back to back away games. ..... Play on Central Michigan to cover
Central Michigan +14.5 (-110)
Sat Sep 12 '09 12:00p
Central Michigan travels 70 miles south on U.S. Route 127 to visit Michigan State Saturday afternoon in a interesting non conference battle .Central Michigan of the MAC enters into this tilt vs Big 12 favorite Michigan State as worthy underdogs in this spot . I'm betting on the big arm of QB Dan LeFevour,one of the all time top NCAA career yards leaders (11,828 Total yards) to be on display for NFL scouts , vs a Michigan State side that is highly likely to be looking ahead to next weeks confrontation with their long time rivals Notre Dame. I know the vaunted Chippewas offense looked muted last week, vs the Arizona Wildcats in a sleepy 16-9 loss covering as 13.5 point dogs ,but what was impressive was a Chips D, that allowed a PAC 10 side to just six first downs in 16 third downs situations for a lowly (37.5 percent), including 3-for-10 on third downs on CMU’s side of the 50-yard line. I also know Michigan State was explosive in 44-3 win vs lower tier Montana State , but after that kind of adrenalin filled effort, a let down performance is a strong possibility. Final notes & Key Trends: Michigan State has covered just 1 game in their L/9 opportunities before playing the Fighting Irish. Central Michigan is 3-0 ATS L/3 vs Big 10 and 9-0-2 ATS in their L/11 back to back away games. ..... Play on Central Michigan to cover
NCAAF LONG SHEET
Week 2
Saturday, September 12
N CAROLINA (1 - 0) at CONNECTICUT (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N CAROLINA is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in road games in September games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
N CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
N CAROLINA is 1-0 straight up against CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E CAROLINA (1 - 0) at W VIRGINIA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
E CAROLINA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
W VIRGINIA is 1-1 against the spread versus E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
W VIRGINIA is 1-1 straight up against E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SYRACUSE (0 - 1) at PENN ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
PENN ST is 1-0 against the spread versus SYRACUSE over the last 3 seasons
PENN ST is 1-0 straight up against SYRACUSE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARSHALL (1 - 0) at VIRGINIA TECH (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 1:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MARSHALL is 19-36 ATS (-20.6 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
MARSHALL is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) in September games since 1992.
MARSHALL is 20-41 ATS (-25.1 Units) in road games since 1992.
MARSHALL is 20-41 ATS (-25.1 Units) in road lined games since 1992.
VIRGINIA TECH is 71-48 ATS (+18.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
VIRGINIA TECH is 90-65 ATS (+18.5 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at MICHIGAN ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at NORTHWESTERN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
E MICHIGAN is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.
E MICHIGAN is 6-25 ATS (-21.5 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
NORTHWESTERN is 1-0 against the spread versus E MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
NORTHWESTERN is 1-0 straight up against E MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IOWA (1 - 0) at IOWA ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
IOWA ST is 2-0 against the spread versus IOWA over the last 3 seasons
IOWA ST is 1-1 straight up against IOWA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MISSISSIPPI ST (1 - 0) at AUBURN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MISSISSIPPI ST is 2-0 against the spread versus AUBURN over the last 3 seasons
AUBURN is 1-1 straight up against MISSISSIPPI ST over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DUKE (0 - 1) at ARMY (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRESNO ST (1 - 0) at WISCONSIN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FRESNO ST is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FRESNO ST is 0-9 ATS (-9.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
FRESNO ST is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WISCONSIN is 1-0 against the spread versus FRESNO ST over the last 3 seasons
WISCONSIN is 1-0 straight up against FRESNO ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STANFORD (1 - 0) at WAKE FOREST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S CAROLINA (1 - 0) at GEORGIA (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
S CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus GEORGIA over the last 3 seasons
GEORGIA is 1-1 straight up against S CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UCLA (1 - 0) at TENNESSEE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 4:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UCLA is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 since 1992.
UCLA is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) in September games since 1992.
UCLA is 47-28 ATS (+16.2 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
UCLA is 1-0 against the spread versus TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
UCLA is 1-0 straight up against TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BYU (1 - 0) at TULANE (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TULANE is 54-79 ATS (-32.9 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PURDUE (1 - 0) at OREGON (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 10:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
PURDUE is 1-0 against the spread versus OREGON over the last 3 seasons
OREGON is 1-0 straight up against PURDUE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEXAS (1 - 0) at WYOMING (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WYOMING is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WYOMING is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 3-15 ATS (-13.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 3-16 ATS (-14.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LOUISIANA TECH (0 - 1) at NAVY (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOUISIANA TECH is 29-49 ATS (-24.9 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
NAVY is 105-73 ATS (+24.7 Units) in all games since 1992.
NAVY is 98-67 ATS (+24.3 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
NAVY is 65-41 ATS (+19.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
NAVY is 105-73 ATS (+24.7 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTRE DAME (1 - 0) at MICHIGAN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
MICHIGAN is 1-1 against the spread versus NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons
MICHIGAN is 1-1 straight up against NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IDAHO (1 - 0) at WASHINGTON (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
IDAHO is 25-42 ATS (-21.2 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) in a home game where the total is between 49.5 and 56 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SMU (1 - 0) at UAB (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 4:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UAB is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) in September games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PITTSBURGH (1 - 0) at BUFFALO (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
BUFFALO is 1-0 against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 1-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TCU (0 - 0) at VIRGINIA (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KENT ST (1 - 0) at BOSTON COLLEGE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 2:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KENT ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 2-14 ATS (-13.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON COLLEGE is 1-0 against the spread versus KENT ST over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON COLLEGE is 1-0 straight up against KENT ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RICE (0 - 1) at TEXAS TECH (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS TECH is 98-71 ATS (+19.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 43-26 ATS (+14.4 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 76-48 ATS (+23.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 55-30 ATS (+22.0 Units) in home games since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 55-30 ATS (+22.0 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS TECH is 1-0 against the spread versus RICE over the last 3 seasons
TEXAS TECH is 1-0 straight up against RICE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR FORCE (1 - 0) at MINNESOTA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
AIR FORCE is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
AIR FORCE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 49 over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAWAII (1 - 0) vs. WASHINGTON ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON ST is 1-0 against the spread versus HAWAII over the last 3 seasons
HAWAII is 1-0 straight up against WASHINGTON ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
W MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at INDIANA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 1-0 against the spread versus W MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 1-0 straight up against W MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOWLING GREEN (1 - 0) at MISSOURI (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOWLING GREEN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KANSAS (1 - 0) at UTEP (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UCF (1 - 0) at SOUTHERN MISS (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 against the spread versus UCF over the last 3 seasons
SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 straight up against UCF over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOUSTON (1 - 0) at OKLAHOMA ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA ST is 1-0 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA ST is 1-0 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIAMI OHIO (0 - 1) at BOISE ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOISE ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
BOISE ST is 50-29 ATS (+18.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
BOISE ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 62-35 ATS (+23.5 Units) as a favorite since 1992.
BOISE ST is 43-18 ATS (+23.2 Units) in home games since 1992.
BOISE ST is 43-18 ATS (+23.2 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VANDERBILT (1 - 0) at LSU (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LSU is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
LSU is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TULSA (1 - 0) at NEW MEXICO (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
TULSA is 1-0 against the spread versus NEW MEXICO over the last 3 seasons
TULSA is 1-0 straight up against NEW MEXICO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USC (1 - 0) at OHIO ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OHIO ST is 107-79 ATS (+20.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
USC is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) against Big 10 conference opponents since 1992.
USC is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
USC is 1-0 against the spread versus OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
USC is 1-0 straight up against OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UTAH (1 - 0) at SAN JOSE ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OREGON ST (1 - 0) at UNLV (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 11:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OREGON ST is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in road games in September games since 1992.
OREGON ST is 73-49 ATS (+19.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
UNLV is 46-69 ATS (-29.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARKANSAS ST (1 - 0) at NEBRASKA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 2:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARKANSAS ST is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
NEBRASKA is 56-35 ATS (+17.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FLA INTERNATIONAL (0 - 0) at ALABAMA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ALABAMA is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
ALABAMA is 32-53 ATS (-26.3 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
ALABAMA is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in a home game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S FLORIDA (1 - 0) at W KENTUCKY (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 6:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TROY (0 - 1) at FLORIDA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TROY is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
FLORIDA is 1-0 against the spread versus TROY over the last 3 seasons
FLORIDA is 1-0 straight up against TROY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OHIO U (0 - 1) at NORTH TEXAS (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MEMPHIS (0 - 1) at MIDDLE TENN ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MIDDLE TENN ST is 1-0 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
MIDDLE TENN ST is 1-0 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KANSAS ST (1 - 0) at LA LAFAYETTE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAFAYETTE is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAFAYETTE is 1-0 against the spread versus KANSAS ST over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS ST is 1-0 straight up against LA LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Week 2
Saturday, September 12
N CAROLINA (1 - 0) at CONNECTICUT (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N CAROLINA is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in road games in September games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
N CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
N CAROLINA is 1-0 straight up against CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E CAROLINA (1 - 0) at W VIRGINIA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
E CAROLINA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
W VIRGINIA is 1-1 against the spread versus E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
W VIRGINIA is 1-1 straight up against E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SYRACUSE (0 - 1) at PENN ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
PENN ST is 1-0 against the spread versus SYRACUSE over the last 3 seasons
PENN ST is 1-0 straight up against SYRACUSE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARSHALL (1 - 0) at VIRGINIA TECH (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 1:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MARSHALL is 19-36 ATS (-20.6 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
MARSHALL is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) in September games since 1992.
MARSHALL is 20-41 ATS (-25.1 Units) in road games since 1992.
MARSHALL is 20-41 ATS (-25.1 Units) in road lined games since 1992.
VIRGINIA TECH is 71-48 ATS (+18.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
VIRGINIA TECH is 90-65 ATS (+18.5 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at MICHIGAN ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at NORTHWESTERN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
E MICHIGAN is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.
E MICHIGAN is 6-25 ATS (-21.5 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
NORTHWESTERN is 1-0 against the spread versus E MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
NORTHWESTERN is 1-0 straight up against E MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IOWA (1 - 0) at IOWA ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
IOWA ST is 2-0 against the spread versus IOWA over the last 3 seasons
IOWA ST is 1-1 straight up against IOWA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MISSISSIPPI ST (1 - 0) at AUBURN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MISSISSIPPI ST is 2-0 against the spread versus AUBURN over the last 3 seasons
AUBURN is 1-1 straight up against MISSISSIPPI ST over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DUKE (0 - 1) at ARMY (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRESNO ST (1 - 0) at WISCONSIN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FRESNO ST is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FRESNO ST is 0-9 ATS (-9.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
FRESNO ST is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WISCONSIN is 1-0 against the spread versus FRESNO ST over the last 3 seasons
WISCONSIN is 1-0 straight up against FRESNO ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STANFORD (1 - 0) at WAKE FOREST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S CAROLINA (1 - 0) at GEORGIA (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
S CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus GEORGIA over the last 3 seasons
GEORGIA is 1-1 straight up against S CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UCLA (1 - 0) at TENNESSEE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 4:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UCLA is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 since 1992.
UCLA is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) in September games since 1992.
UCLA is 47-28 ATS (+16.2 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
UCLA is 1-0 against the spread versus TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
UCLA is 1-0 straight up against TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BYU (1 - 0) at TULANE (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TULANE is 54-79 ATS (-32.9 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PURDUE (1 - 0) at OREGON (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 10:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
PURDUE is 1-0 against the spread versus OREGON over the last 3 seasons
OREGON is 1-0 straight up against PURDUE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEXAS (1 - 0) at WYOMING (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WYOMING is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WYOMING is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 3-15 ATS (-13.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 3-16 ATS (-14.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
WYOMING is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LOUISIANA TECH (0 - 1) at NAVY (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOUISIANA TECH is 29-49 ATS (-24.9 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
NAVY is 105-73 ATS (+24.7 Units) in all games since 1992.
NAVY is 98-67 ATS (+24.3 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
NAVY is 65-41 ATS (+19.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
NAVY is 105-73 ATS (+24.7 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTRE DAME (1 - 0) at MICHIGAN (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
MICHIGAN is 1-1 against the spread versus NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons
MICHIGAN is 1-1 straight up against NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IDAHO (1 - 0) at WASHINGTON (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
IDAHO is 25-42 ATS (-21.2 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) in a home game where the total is between 49.5 and 56 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SMU (1 - 0) at UAB (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 4:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UAB is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) in September games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PITTSBURGH (1 - 0) at BUFFALO (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
BUFFALO is 1-0 against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 1-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TCU (0 - 0) at VIRGINIA (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KENT ST (1 - 0) at BOSTON COLLEGE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 2:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KENT ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 2-14 ATS (-13.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
KENT ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON COLLEGE is 1-0 against the spread versus KENT ST over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON COLLEGE is 1-0 straight up against KENT ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RICE (0 - 1) at TEXAS TECH (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS TECH is 98-71 ATS (+19.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 43-26 ATS (+14.4 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 76-48 ATS (+23.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 55-30 ATS (+22.0 Units) in home games since 1992.
TEXAS TECH is 55-30 ATS (+22.0 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS TECH is 1-0 against the spread versus RICE over the last 3 seasons
TEXAS TECH is 1-0 straight up against RICE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR FORCE (1 - 0) at MINNESOTA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
AIR FORCE is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
AIR FORCE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 49 over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAWAII (1 - 0) vs. WASHINGTON ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON ST is 1-0 against the spread versus HAWAII over the last 3 seasons
HAWAII is 1-0 straight up against WASHINGTON ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
W MICHIGAN (0 - 1) at INDIANA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 1-0 against the spread versus W MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 1-0 straight up against W MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOWLING GREEN (1 - 0) at MISSOURI (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOWLING GREEN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KANSAS (1 - 0) at UTEP (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UCF (1 - 0) at SOUTHERN MISS (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 against the spread versus UCF over the last 3 seasons
SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 straight up against UCF over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOUSTON (1 - 0) at OKLAHOMA ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 3:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA ST is 1-0 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA ST is 1-0 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIAMI OHIO (0 - 1) at BOISE ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOISE ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
BOISE ST is 50-29 ATS (+18.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
BOISE ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 62-35 ATS (+23.5 Units) as a favorite since 1992.
BOISE ST is 43-18 ATS (+23.2 Units) in home games since 1992.
BOISE ST is 43-18 ATS (+23.2 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VANDERBILT (1 - 0) at LSU (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LSU is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
LSU is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
LSU is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TULSA (1 - 0) at NEW MEXICO (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
TULSA is 1-0 against the spread versus NEW MEXICO over the last 3 seasons
TULSA is 1-0 straight up against NEW MEXICO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USC (1 - 0) at OHIO ST (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OHIO ST is 107-79 ATS (+20.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
USC is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) against Big 10 conference opponents since 1992.
USC is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
USC is 1-0 against the spread versus OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
USC is 1-0 straight up against OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UTAH (1 - 0) at SAN JOSE ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OREGON ST (1 - 0) at UNLV (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 11:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OREGON ST is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in road games in September games since 1992.
OREGON ST is 73-49 ATS (+19.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
UNLV is 46-69 ATS (-29.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARKANSAS ST (1 - 0) at NEBRASKA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 2:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARKANSAS ST is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
NEBRASKA is 56-35 ATS (+17.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FLA INTERNATIONAL (0 - 0) at ALABAMA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ALABAMA is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.
ALABAMA is 32-53 ATS (-26.3 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games since 1992.
ALABAMA is 44-65 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
ALABAMA is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in a home game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S FLORIDA (1 - 0) at W KENTUCKY (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 6:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TROY (0 - 1) at FLORIDA (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 12:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TROY is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
FLORIDA is 1-0 against the spread versus TROY over the last 3 seasons
FLORIDA is 1-0 straight up against TROY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OHIO U (0 - 1) at NORTH TEXAS (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MEMPHIS (0 - 1) at MIDDLE TENN ST (0 - 1) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MIDDLE TENN ST is 1-0 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
MIDDLE TENN ST is 1-0 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KANSAS ST (1 - 0) at LA LAFAYETTE (1 - 0) - 9/12/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAFAYETTE is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAFAYETTE is 1-0 against the spread versus KANSAS ST over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS ST is 1-0 straight up against LA LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
NCAAF SHORT SHEET
Week 2
Saturday, 9/12/2009
N CAROLINA at CONNECTICUT, 12:00 PM ET ESPNU
N CAROLINA: 19-8 ATS Away in September
CONNECTICUT: 19-13 Under as an underdog
(TC) E CAROLINA at W VIRGINIA, 3:30 PM ET
E CAROLINA: 17-3 ATS as road dog of 7pts or less
W VIRGINIA: 8-2 Under off non-conference game
SYRACUSE at PENN ST, 12:00 PM ET Big 10
SYRACUSE: 30-15 Under after being outgained by 125+ total yards
PENN ST: 2-8 ATS as a home favorite of 28.5 to 35 points
(TC) MARSHALL at VIRGINIA TECH, 1:30 PM ET
MARSHALL: 6-1 Under on grass
VIRGINIA TECH: 0-6 ATS off non-conference game
C MICHIGAN at MICHIGAN ST, 12:00 PM ET ESPN2
C MICHIGAN: 15-5 ATS off an Under
MICHIGAN ST: 1-7 ATS as a home favorite of 10.5 to 14 points
E MICHIGAN at NORTHWESTERN, 12:00 PM ET Big 10
E MICHIGAN: 6-25 ATS in non-conference games
NORTHWESTERN: 5-1 Under in non-conference games
(TC) IOWA at IOWA ST, 12:30 PM ET FSN
IOWA: 7-0 Under off non-conference game
IOWA ST: 22-9 ATS at home off SU win
(TC) MISSISSIPPI ST at AUBURN, 7:00 PM ET
MISSISSIPPI ST: 2-8 ATS off home win by 28+ points
AUBURN: 12-4 Under vs. conference opponents
(TC) DUKE at ARMY, 12:00 PM ET CBSC
DUKE: 8-0 ATS off non-conference game
ARMY: 15-8 Under in all games
(TC) FRESNO ST at WISCONSIN, 12:00 PM ET ESPN
FRESNO ST: 0-9 ATS on Saturday
WISCONSIN: 42-23 ATS off an Under
(TC) STANFORD at WAKE FOREST, 12:00 PM ET
STANFORD: 8-0 ATS off conference win by 21+ points
WAKE FOREST: 7-18 ATS off loss by 6pts or less
(TC) S CAROLINA at GEORGIA, 7:00 PM ET ESPN2
S CAROLINA: 7-0 Under 1st month of season
GEORGIA: 25-11 Under in September
(TC) UCLA at TENNESSEE, 4:00 PM ET ESPN
UCLA: 47-28 ATS as an underdog
TENNESSEE: 15-5 Under after scoring 42+ points
BYU at TULANE, 3:30 PM ET ESPN2
BYU: 0-7 ATS Away off SU dog win
TULANE: 6-0 Under off home loss by 14+ points
(TC) PURDUE at OREGON, 10:15 PM ET FSN
PURDUE: 6-0 Under off an Over
OREGON: 9-16 ATS as a home favorite of 7.5 to 14 points
TEXAS at WYOMING, 3:30 PM ET VER
TEXAS: 22-8 Over in September
WYOMING: 0-6 ATS 1st half of season
LOUISIANA TECH at NAVY, 3:30 PM ET CBSC
LOUISIANA TECH: 15-32 ATS in 2nd of BB road games
NAVY: 20-7 ATS off loss by 6pts or less
NOTRE DAME at MICHIGAN, 3:30 PM ET ABC
NOTRE DAME: 9-2 Under in road games
MICHIGAN: 0-7 ATS off home game
IDAHO at WASHINGTON, 3:30 PM ET
IDAHO: 1-4 ATS vs. Washington
WASHINGTON: 0-7 ATS off home loss
SMU at UAB, 4:00 PM ET
SMU: 2-10 ATS Away 1st 2 wks of season
UAB: 24-11 ATS in September
(TC) PITTSBURGH at BUFFALO, 12:00 PM ET
PITTSBURGH: 1-9 ATS as a road favorite of 7.5 to 14 points
BUFFALO: 8-1 ATS as an underdog
(TC) TCU at VIRGINIA, 3:30 PM ET ESPNU
TCU: 14-7 Under as favorite
VIRGINIA: 16-4 Under after scoring 14 points or less
(TC) KENT ST at BOSTON COLLEGE, 2:00 PM ET
KENT ST: 0-6 ATS off SU win
BOSTON COLLEGE: 11-1 ATS after gaining 7.25+ yards/play
RICE at TEXAS TECH, 7:00 PM ET
RICE: 13-0 Over off road conference loss
TEXAS TECH: 41-22 ATS as home favorite
AIR FORCE at MINNESOTA, 7:00 PM ET Big 10
AIR FORCE: 8-0 Over off non-conference game
MINNESOTA: 2-7 ATS as favorite
HAWAII vs. at WASHINGTON ST, 7:00 PM ET (Played in Seattle)
HAWAII: 0-3 ATS vs. Pac 10
WASHINGTON ST: 44-19 Over off ATS loss
(TC) W MICHIGAN at INDIANA, 12:00 PM ET
W MICHIGAN: 7-0 Over after scoring 14 pts or less
INDIANA: 10-22 ATS when the line is +3 to -3
BOWLING GREEN at MISSOURI, 7:00 PM ET
BOWLING GREEN: 7-0 ATS in road games
MISSOURI: 5-16 ATS off win by 28+ points
KANSAS at UTEP, 7:30 PM ET CBSC
KANSAS: 13-3 ATS as favorite
UTEP: 6-1 Over off an Under
(TC) UCF at SOUTHERN MISS, 7:00 PM ET
UCF: 6-1 Over off non-conference game
SOUTHERN MISS: 31-13 ATS 1st month of season
(TC) HOUSTON at OKLAHOMA ST, 3:30 PM ET FSN
HOUSTON: 0-7 ATS after a game w/ a TO margin of +2 or better
OKLAHOMA ST: 6-0 ATS as home favorite
MIAMI OHIO at BOISE ST, 8:00 PM ET
MIAMI OHIO: 3-6 ATS on turf
BOISE ST: 43-18 ATS as home favorite
(TC) VANDERBILT at LSU, 7:00 PM ET ESPNU
VANDERBILT: 13-3 Under vs. conference
LSU: 0-7 ATS in home games
TULSA at NEW MEXICO, 8:00 PM ET MTN
TULSA: 1-8 ATS Away after scoring 37+ points
NEW MEXICO: 5-1 ATS off non-conference game
USC at OHIO ST, 8:00 PM ET ESPN
USC: 13-4 ATS vs. Big Ten
OHIO ST: 2-6 ATS off non-conference game
UTAH at SAN JOSE ST, 10:30 PM ET ESPNU
UTAH: 9-1 Over in non-conference games
SAN JOSE ST: 7-0 ATS at home after scoring 9pts or less
OREGON ST at UNLV, 11:00 PM ET CBSC
OREGON ST: 6-0 ATS off home game
UNLV: 6-2 Under in non-conference games
Added Games
ARKANSAS ST at NEBRASKA, 2:00 PM ET
ARKANSAS ST: 8-24 ATS off home win
NEBRASKA: 1-5 ATS off home win by 17+ Pts
FLA INTERNATIONAL at ALABAMA, 7:00 PM ET
FLA INTERNATIONAL: 12-4 Under in non-conf games
ALABAMA: 36-55 ATS as home favorite
(TC) S FLORIDA at W KENTUCKY, 6:30 PM ET
S FLORIDA: 15-7 ATS in September
W KENTUCKY: 2-9 ATS in all games
(TC) TROY at FLORIDA, 12:20 PM ET
TROY: 6-1 Over as an underdog
FLORIDA: 11-2 ATS as favorite
OHIO U at NORTH TEXAS, 7:00 PM ET
OHIO U: 8-4 ATS in road games
NORTH TEXAS: 5-21 ATS off an Under
MEMPHIS at MIDDLE TENN ST, 7:00 PM ET
MEMPHIS: 6-3 ATS in road games
MIDDLE TENN ST: 19-6 Under off SU loss
KANSAS ST at LA LAFAYETTE, 7:00 PM ET
KANSAS ST: 5-0 Over off non-conference game
LA LAFAYETTE: 3-12 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points
** (TC) Denotes Time Change
Week 2
Saturday, 9/12/2009
N CAROLINA at CONNECTICUT, 12:00 PM ET ESPNU
N CAROLINA: 19-8 ATS Away in September
CONNECTICUT: 19-13 Under as an underdog
(TC) E CAROLINA at W VIRGINIA, 3:30 PM ET
E CAROLINA: 17-3 ATS as road dog of 7pts or less
W VIRGINIA: 8-2 Under off non-conference game
SYRACUSE at PENN ST, 12:00 PM ET Big 10
SYRACUSE: 30-15 Under after being outgained by 125+ total yards
PENN ST: 2-8 ATS as a home favorite of 28.5 to 35 points
(TC) MARSHALL at VIRGINIA TECH, 1:30 PM ET
MARSHALL: 6-1 Under on grass
VIRGINIA TECH: 0-6 ATS off non-conference game
C MICHIGAN at MICHIGAN ST, 12:00 PM ET ESPN2
C MICHIGAN: 15-5 ATS off an Under
MICHIGAN ST: 1-7 ATS as a home favorite of 10.5 to 14 points
E MICHIGAN at NORTHWESTERN, 12:00 PM ET Big 10
E MICHIGAN: 6-25 ATS in non-conference games
NORTHWESTERN: 5-1 Under in non-conference games
(TC) IOWA at IOWA ST, 12:30 PM ET FSN
IOWA: 7-0 Under off non-conference game
IOWA ST: 22-9 ATS at home off SU win
(TC) MISSISSIPPI ST at AUBURN, 7:00 PM ET
MISSISSIPPI ST: 2-8 ATS off home win by 28+ points
AUBURN: 12-4 Under vs. conference opponents
(TC) DUKE at ARMY, 12:00 PM ET CBSC
DUKE: 8-0 ATS off non-conference game
ARMY: 15-8 Under in all games
(TC) FRESNO ST at WISCONSIN, 12:00 PM ET ESPN
FRESNO ST: 0-9 ATS on Saturday
WISCONSIN: 42-23 ATS off an Under
(TC) STANFORD at WAKE FOREST, 12:00 PM ET
STANFORD: 8-0 ATS off conference win by 21+ points
WAKE FOREST: 7-18 ATS off loss by 6pts or less
(TC) S CAROLINA at GEORGIA, 7:00 PM ET ESPN2
S CAROLINA: 7-0 Under 1st month of season
GEORGIA: 25-11 Under in September
(TC) UCLA at TENNESSEE, 4:00 PM ET ESPN
UCLA: 47-28 ATS as an underdog
TENNESSEE: 15-5 Under after scoring 42+ points
BYU at TULANE, 3:30 PM ET ESPN2
BYU: 0-7 ATS Away off SU dog win
TULANE: 6-0 Under off home loss by 14+ points
(TC) PURDUE at OREGON, 10:15 PM ET FSN
PURDUE: 6-0 Under off an Over
OREGON: 9-16 ATS as a home favorite of 7.5 to 14 points
TEXAS at WYOMING, 3:30 PM ET VER
TEXAS: 22-8 Over in September
WYOMING: 0-6 ATS 1st half of season
LOUISIANA TECH at NAVY, 3:30 PM ET CBSC
LOUISIANA TECH: 15-32 ATS in 2nd of BB road games
NAVY: 20-7 ATS off loss by 6pts or less
NOTRE DAME at MICHIGAN, 3:30 PM ET ABC
NOTRE DAME: 9-2 Under in road games
MICHIGAN: 0-7 ATS off home game
IDAHO at WASHINGTON, 3:30 PM ET
IDAHO: 1-4 ATS vs. Washington
WASHINGTON: 0-7 ATS off home loss
SMU at UAB, 4:00 PM ET
SMU: 2-10 ATS Away 1st 2 wks of season
UAB: 24-11 ATS in September
(TC) PITTSBURGH at BUFFALO, 12:00 PM ET
PITTSBURGH: 1-9 ATS as a road favorite of 7.5 to 14 points
BUFFALO: 8-1 ATS as an underdog
(TC) TCU at VIRGINIA, 3:30 PM ET ESPNU
TCU: 14-7 Under as favorite
VIRGINIA: 16-4 Under after scoring 14 points or less
(TC) KENT ST at BOSTON COLLEGE, 2:00 PM ET
KENT ST: 0-6 ATS off SU win
BOSTON COLLEGE: 11-1 ATS after gaining 7.25+ yards/play
RICE at TEXAS TECH, 7:00 PM ET
RICE: 13-0 Over off road conference loss
TEXAS TECH: 41-22 ATS as home favorite
AIR FORCE at MINNESOTA, 7:00 PM ET Big 10
AIR FORCE: 8-0 Over off non-conference game
MINNESOTA: 2-7 ATS as favorite
HAWAII vs. at WASHINGTON ST, 7:00 PM ET (Played in Seattle)
HAWAII: 0-3 ATS vs. Pac 10
WASHINGTON ST: 44-19 Over off ATS loss
(TC) W MICHIGAN at INDIANA, 12:00 PM ET
W MICHIGAN: 7-0 Over after scoring 14 pts or less
INDIANA: 10-22 ATS when the line is +3 to -3
BOWLING GREEN at MISSOURI, 7:00 PM ET
BOWLING GREEN: 7-0 ATS in road games
MISSOURI: 5-16 ATS off win by 28+ points
KANSAS at UTEP, 7:30 PM ET CBSC
KANSAS: 13-3 ATS as favorite
UTEP: 6-1 Over off an Under
(TC) UCF at SOUTHERN MISS, 7:00 PM ET
UCF: 6-1 Over off non-conference game
SOUTHERN MISS: 31-13 ATS 1st month of season
(TC) HOUSTON at OKLAHOMA ST, 3:30 PM ET FSN
HOUSTON: 0-7 ATS after a game w/ a TO margin of +2 or better
OKLAHOMA ST: 6-0 ATS as home favorite
MIAMI OHIO at BOISE ST, 8:00 PM ET
MIAMI OHIO: 3-6 ATS on turf
BOISE ST: 43-18 ATS as home favorite
(TC) VANDERBILT at LSU, 7:00 PM ET ESPNU
VANDERBILT: 13-3 Under vs. conference
LSU: 0-7 ATS in home games
TULSA at NEW MEXICO, 8:00 PM ET MTN
TULSA: 1-8 ATS Away after scoring 37+ points
NEW MEXICO: 5-1 ATS off non-conference game
USC at OHIO ST, 8:00 PM ET ESPN
USC: 13-4 ATS vs. Big Ten
OHIO ST: 2-6 ATS off non-conference game
UTAH at SAN JOSE ST, 10:30 PM ET ESPNU
UTAH: 9-1 Over in non-conference games
SAN JOSE ST: 7-0 ATS at home after scoring 9pts or less
OREGON ST at UNLV, 11:00 PM ET CBSC
OREGON ST: 6-0 ATS off home game
UNLV: 6-2 Under in non-conference games
Added Games
ARKANSAS ST at NEBRASKA, 2:00 PM ET
ARKANSAS ST: 8-24 ATS off home win
NEBRASKA: 1-5 ATS off home win by 17+ Pts
FLA INTERNATIONAL at ALABAMA, 7:00 PM ET
FLA INTERNATIONAL: 12-4 Under in non-conf games
ALABAMA: 36-55 ATS as home favorite
(TC) S FLORIDA at W KENTUCKY, 6:30 PM ET
S FLORIDA: 15-7 ATS in September
W KENTUCKY: 2-9 ATS in all games
(TC) TROY at FLORIDA, 12:20 PM ET
TROY: 6-1 Over as an underdog
FLORIDA: 11-2 ATS as favorite
OHIO U at NORTH TEXAS, 7:00 PM ET
OHIO U: 8-4 ATS in road games
NORTH TEXAS: 5-21 ATS off an Under
MEMPHIS at MIDDLE TENN ST, 7:00 PM ET
MEMPHIS: 6-3 ATS in road games
MIDDLE TENN ST: 19-6 Under off SU loss
KANSAS ST at LA LAFAYETTE, 7:00 PM ET
KANSAS ST: 5-0 Over off non-conference game
LA LAFAYETTE: 3-12 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points
** (TC) Denotes Time Change
NCAAF WRITE-UP
Week 2
Saturday's Games
Top games
East Carolina was 23-29/243 passing in LY's 24-3 upset win over West Virginia, their first series win in eight tries (six of seven losses were by 17+ points.). Pirates lost last six visits to this site by average of 21 pts (1-4-1 vs spread). ECU was just 12-27 passing vs Appalachian State in 29-24 opening win (was 27-7 at half) last week. Mountaineers had 195 rushing yards, 243 passing in their 33-20 opening win against Liberty.
Home team won last five Iowa-Iowa State games; Hawkeyes lost their last two visits here, 23-3/15-13. Cyclones don't have TD in last 10 Q's in series- four of last five series totals were 28 or less. Iowa covered two of last nine as road favorite, nine of last 27 in game after a win. State is 10-7 as home underdog since '05. Last week, Hawkeyes needed two blocked FGs in last 0:10 to hold off I-AA Northern Iowa, 17-16. State had 204 rushing yards, 238 passing in 34-17 win over North Dakota State.
Auburn won seven of last eight games vs Mississippi State, but lost to Bulldogs two years ago, and beat them 3-2 LY (-9), in game that Tigers outgained State 315-116. Five of Auburn's last six series wins are by 28+ points. Tigers covered eight of last 24 as a favorite, six of last 18 as home fave. State is 12-19-1 as road dog since 2002. Auburn had 301 yards on ground, 255 in air LW vs La Tech (won 37-13; was 13-10 at half). State had 12 penalties for 152 yards in 45-7 destruction of I-AA Jackson St.
Duke lost 24-16 to I-AA Richmond last week, passing for 350 yards but giving up blocked punt for a TD- they only had 16 rushed for 19 yards vs I-AA foe, a definite red flag. Army is 4-3 as home favorite since '02; Cadets beat Eastern Michigan 27-14 last week, running ball for 300 yds, passing for 8. Blue Devils are 26-14 vs spread in last 40 road games (dog in 39 of the 40). Duke is 14-91 SU since 2000.
Stanford makes long trip east after Pac-10 win at Washington State last week; remember Cal got ambushed in similar trip at Maryland last year. Wake Forest lost 24-21 at home to Baylor in opener (outgained by Bears 366-269). Stanford is 12-10-1 vs spread on road since '05- they've got 17 starters back this season, but are starting redshirt freshman QB. Deacons are 8-20-1 as home favorite this decade; QB Skinner has 37 career starts, but Wake's defense has only four returning starters from last year.
Underdog is 3-1-1 vs spread in last five South Carolina-Georgia games, with visitor winning four of the five. Dawgs have just one offensive TD in last eight Q's vs Carolina. Georgia is 10-16 as a home favorite since '04 and 2-6 vs spread in game right after its last eight losses. Gamecocks are 8-4-1 as road underdog under Spurrier (12-6-1 vs spread in last 19 road games). Carolina beat NC State 7-3 last week (256-133 TY). Dawgs lost 24-10 at Oklahoma State (outgained 307-257). Average total in last five series games, 27.
UCLA intercepted four Tennessee passes in first half LY, upset Vols in Rose Bowl opener, 27-24 (+7.5), in game they outrushed Bruins 177-29. Vols are 7-3-1 vs spread in last 11 games as favorite, but they're playing Florida next week, so could hold back some stuff here. UCLA covered 18 of last 28 as underdog, but were 1-3 as road LY in Neuheisel's first year with Bruins. UCLA beat San Diego State 33-14 last week, blocking field goal for TD. Tennessee had 657 yards in 63-7 win vs WKU last week.
Oregon had horrific opener in Boise, losing 19-8 and losing best running back Blount after post-game incident. Ducks covered 15 of last 21 as a home favorite- they rallied from 20-3 deficit to win in OT at Purdue last year, running ball for 306 yards. Purdue beat Toledo 52-31 last week, in game where they got lit up for 423 passing yards. Boilers are 7-5 vs the spread as road dog since 2006. Interesting to see how Coach Kelly gets his Ducks to play after the worst possible debut last week.
This is just second time in last 11 meetings Notre Dame is favored over Michigan; home team won eight of last ten series games, with underdogs winning six of nine SU. Michigan is starting freshman QB- they were 15 of 28 for 197 passing yards in opener. irish have nine starters back on offense, Michigan has 10. Wolverines are 10-8 as an underdog since '00, 2-3 at home. I'm guessing Wolverines will cover WR Floyd better than Nevada did last week-- Irish were 17-20/332 passing.
Virginia lost 26-14 at home to Wm & Mary last week, turning ball over seven times (-6); they have senior QB (23 starts) but only five starters back on offense, six on defense. Cavaliers are 32-16 vs spread at home since 2001. TCU hasn't played yet; they've got only four starters back on defense, six on offense, but have junior QB with 23 starts under his belt. Horned Frogs are 7-12-1 as road favorite since '03. Should be a big edge for Virginia having already played, but they lost to a I-AA team.
Minnesota opens its new stadium off a 23-20 OT win at Syracuse, in a game where Gophers held Orange scoreless in second half/OT. Air Force crushed Nicholls State 72-0 last week, running option for 474 yards, but hard to tell much from that. Falcons are 17-12 vs spread as home dog in this decade; Minnesota is 2-5 as home favorite under Brewster. Red flag for Minnesota was 19-42 passing in dome, though they got ball to WR Decker in big spots. Syracuse only had 90 yards on 34 runs last week.
Now that Oklahoma State beat Georgia, they have to validate it with win over 15-point dog Houston, which gave up 699 yards in 56-37 loss LY to OSU (+15). Cougars are 6-4 as road dog since 2005- they jogged 55-7 last week, with 32-44/447 passing state vs NW Louisiana, so hard to tell much there. Cowboys were +3 in turnovers last week, but had 106 yds in penalties- they outgained Dawgs 307-257. OSU covered nine of last 11 as home favorite, 15 of last 23 non-league games.
LSU had solid 31-23 win at improved Washington last week, but they were outgained 478-321; Huskies were 25-45/321 passing, but threw a key pick-6. Tigers are 8-17 vs spread as home favorite under Les Miles, 11-24-2 vs spread in game following a win. Vanderbilt is 17-5 vs spread in last 22 games as road dog; they're 27-21 vs spread in SEC since '03, but haven't won in Baton Rouge since 1951. Vandy had 433 yards on the ground in 45-0 win over I-AA Western Carolina, a hard win to evaluate.
USC crushed Ohio State 35-3 LY, outgaining Buckeyes 348-207; Trojans crushed San Jose State 56-3 last week, running for 342 yards, passing for 278 more- they're 13-15 vs spread in last 28 games as road fave. OSU is 47-4 SU at home since 2002, but just 4-6 vs spread as an underdog under Tressel, 1-2 at home- they're 26-16 vs spread after a win. Buckeyes had huge trouble with Navy last week, stopping tying 2-point play at 2:33 to play in game. First road start for USC freshman QB Barkley.
Other games
-- North Carolina is 1-3 as road favorite since '04; they completed just nine of 22 passes vs Citadel last week. UConn is 8-2 as a home dog.
-- Penn State crushed Syracuse 55-13 LY (38-6 at half); they won 31-7 vs Akron last week (31-0 at half); they covered 15 of last 22 as a HF.
-- Virginia Tech lost 34-24 to Alabama in Atlanta last week, getting TD on kick return, but getting outgained 498-155. Hokies are 7-10-1 as HF the last three years. Marshall is 6-15 as road dog under Snyder.
-- Michigan State is 13-24-1 as home favorite since '01; Spartans may be looking ahead to Notre Dame last week. Central Michigan lost its opener 19-6 last week, getting outgained 448-182 at Arizona.
-- Northwestern covered just four of last 19 as home favorite; they're 3-8 vs spread as favorite under Fitzgerald. Eastern Michigan lost to Army at home last week, giving up 300 yards on the ground.
-- Wisconsin (-2) won 13-10 at Fresno State LY; Badgers are 15-10 as a home favorite since '04. Fresno is 15-10 as road underdog since '01.
-- Tulane lost 37-13 at home to Tulsa LY, despite its 19-23/325 passing; BYU had huge win vs Oklahoma in Dallas last week- Florida State comes to Provo next week, so huge sandwich game for BYU here.
-- Texas covered 13 of last 18 non-league games, but is 8-11 vs spread in last 19 games as road favorite. Wyoming covered 3 of last 14 as a dog.
-- Navy lost 31-27 at Ohio State (TY 342-363); they passed ball better than usual (9-13/156), but they're 4-9 as HF since 2005. Louisiana Tech gave up 556 yards in 37-13 loss at Auburn, 301 rushing, 255 passing.
-- Washington played its heart out last week, losing 31-23 to LSU, while outgaining Tigers 478-321; now they're expected to beat Idaho team that won a conference road game last week, 21-6 at New Mexico State (+3).
-- UAB had 295 rushing yards, 221 passing in 44-34 pasting of Rice in its opener, behind mobile senior QB Webb, but Blazers lost last couple games vs SMU, 28-27/22-9. SMU is 11-8-1 as road dog since 2005.
-- Pitt is 7-11 vs spread as road favorite since '02; they've got senior QB and 15 returning starters. Buffalo is 18-8 as underdog under Gill, 3-3 if a home dog-- they sprung another upset last week at UTEP (23-17, +6).
-- Kent State has 15 returning starters but a new QB; they lost 21-0 LY against Boston College in Cleveland (+10). Eagles have QB issues but do have seven starters back on both sides of the ball (12-7-2 as HF).
-- Rice is 10-14 as road dog since '05 after getting waxed 44-24 at UAB last week (+5.5). Texas Tech plays Texas next week, so lookahead is a possibility, but they had 34-48/405 passing stats in Potts' first start.
-- Washington State had some flu issues on campus last week; they are 10-7 as home dog, but this game is in Seattle, not Pullman. Hawai'i beat Central Arkansas 25-20 last week, surviving four turnovers.
-- Indiana covered seven of last 11 as home favorite; they struggled 19-13 vs Eastern Kentucky last week, running ball for only 73 yards. Western Michigan got crushed at Michigan last week, trailing 31-0 at the half.
-- Missouri was impressive in neutral field rout of Illinois, despite only nine returning starters; Tigers are 18-14 as HF since '02. Bowling Green covered nine of its last thirteen games as a road underdog.
-- Kansas is 5-2 as road favorite under Mangino. UTEP got beat at home by Buffalo last week; they're 6-3 as a home dog under Price (dog 18-10 vs spread in their last 28 home games).
-- Road team won three of last four Central Florida-Southern Miss tilts, with teams splitting last two played here (average total. 67). UCF beat I-AA Samford last week 28-24, but needed kick return for TD to win.
-- Miami, OH lost 42-0 to Kentucky on neutral field last week, getting outgained 488-188. Boise State is 20-9 as a home favorite since '03; they beat Oregon 19-8 on national TV last week, but offense looked shaky.
-- Tulsa had 201 rushing yards, 211 passing in 37-13 win at Superdome; they're still just 7-9 in last 16 games as road favorite. New Mexico lost at Texas A&M 41-6, giving up 606 yards (245 rushing, 361 passing).
-- Utah overcame three turnovers to beat Utah State again 35-17, with 233 rushing yards, 286 in air. San Jose State got crushed 56-3 at USC in its opener; Spartans are 5-2 as a home underdog since 2006.
-- UNLV is 11-5 as home dog under Sanford; they've got seven starters back on both sides of ball. Oregon State has only three returning starters on defense, but they've covered eight of last 11 as road favorite.
-- Nebraska thrashed FAU 49-3 last week, running for 259, passing for 231 yards; Huskers are 5-8 as HF since '07. Arkansas State returns eight starters on defense, seven on offense- they're 8-7 as a road underdog.
-- Alabama beat Va Tech 34-24 last week, but they're just 6-17 vs spread in last 23 games as home favorite. FIU didn't play last week; they're 5-7 as road dog under Cristobal, but have 10 starters back on offense.
-- Western Kentucky got crushed 63-7 at Tennessee last week, giving up 657 yards, 380 on ground. South Florida covered just three of last ten as road favorite; they have senior QB but just 12 starters back overall.
-- Troy got outscored 24-0 in second half of loss at Bowling Green last week; Trojans are 9-4 as underdog the last three years. Florida has game with Tennessee next week, so some tricks will be left in the bag here.
-- North Texas is 0-8 vs spread in game following a win since '05; Mean Green won 20-10 at Ball State last week (+17.5). Ohio U had 61 yards on ground in 23-16 home loss to UConn last week.
-- Memphis lost 45-14 at home to Ole Miss Sunday, completing just 17 of 36 passes; Tigers lost 21-7 at home to Middle Tennessee in their last meeting, in '07. MTSU lost 37-14 at Clemson last week (TY 299-361).
-- Kansas State gave up blocked punt for TD, snuck past UMass 21-17 last week; Wildcats are 1-8 as road favorite since '04. UL-Lafayette has 16 starters back but new QB; they're 0-4 as home dog last three years.
Week 2
Saturday's Games
Top games
East Carolina was 23-29/243 passing in LY's 24-3 upset win over West Virginia, their first series win in eight tries (six of seven losses were by 17+ points.). Pirates lost last six visits to this site by average of 21 pts (1-4-1 vs spread). ECU was just 12-27 passing vs Appalachian State in 29-24 opening win (was 27-7 at half) last week. Mountaineers had 195 rushing yards, 243 passing in their 33-20 opening win against Liberty.
Home team won last five Iowa-Iowa State games; Hawkeyes lost their last two visits here, 23-3/15-13. Cyclones don't have TD in last 10 Q's in series- four of last five series totals were 28 or less. Iowa covered two of last nine as road favorite, nine of last 27 in game after a win. State is 10-7 as home underdog since '05. Last week, Hawkeyes needed two blocked FGs in last 0:10 to hold off I-AA Northern Iowa, 17-16. State had 204 rushing yards, 238 passing in 34-17 win over North Dakota State.
Auburn won seven of last eight games vs Mississippi State, but lost to Bulldogs two years ago, and beat them 3-2 LY (-9), in game that Tigers outgained State 315-116. Five of Auburn's last six series wins are by 28+ points. Tigers covered eight of last 24 as a favorite, six of last 18 as home fave. State is 12-19-1 as road dog since 2002. Auburn had 301 yards on ground, 255 in air LW vs La Tech (won 37-13; was 13-10 at half). State had 12 penalties for 152 yards in 45-7 destruction of I-AA Jackson St.
Duke lost 24-16 to I-AA Richmond last week, passing for 350 yards but giving up blocked punt for a TD- they only had 16 rushed for 19 yards vs I-AA foe, a definite red flag. Army is 4-3 as home favorite since '02; Cadets beat Eastern Michigan 27-14 last week, running ball for 300 yds, passing for 8. Blue Devils are 26-14 vs spread in last 40 road games (dog in 39 of the 40). Duke is 14-91 SU since 2000.
Stanford makes long trip east after Pac-10 win at Washington State last week; remember Cal got ambushed in similar trip at Maryland last year. Wake Forest lost 24-21 at home to Baylor in opener (outgained by Bears 366-269). Stanford is 12-10-1 vs spread on road since '05- they've got 17 starters back this season, but are starting redshirt freshman QB. Deacons are 8-20-1 as home favorite this decade; QB Skinner has 37 career starts, but Wake's defense has only four returning starters from last year.
Underdog is 3-1-1 vs spread in last five South Carolina-Georgia games, with visitor winning four of the five. Dawgs have just one offensive TD in last eight Q's vs Carolina. Georgia is 10-16 as a home favorite since '04 and 2-6 vs spread in game right after its last eight losses. Gamecocks are 8-4-1 as road underdog under Spurrier (12-6-1 vs spread in last 19 road games). Carolina beat NC State 7-3 last week (256-133 TY). Dawgs lost 24-10 at Oklahoma State (outgained 307-257). Average total in last five series games, 27.
UCLA intercepted four Tennessee passes in first half LY, upset Vols in Rose Bowl opener, 27-24 (+7.5), in game they outrushed Bruins 177-29. Vols are 7-3-1 vs spread in last 11 games as favorite, but they're playing Florida next week, so could hold back some stuff here. UCLA covered 18 of last 28 as underdog, but were 1-3 as road LY in Neuheisel's first year with Bruins. UCLA beat San Diego State 33-14 last week, blocking field goal for TD. Tennessee had 657 yards in 63-7 win vs WKU last week.
Oregon had horrific opener in Boise, losing 19-8 and losing best running back Blount after post-game incident. Ducks covered 15 of last 21 as a home favorite- they rallied from 20-3 deficit to win in OT at Purdue last year, running ball for 306 yards. Purdue beat Toledo 52-31 last week, in game where they got lit up for 423 passing yards. Boilers are 7-5 vs the spread as road dog since 2006. Interesting to see how Coach Kelly gets his Ducks to play after the worst possible debut last week.
This is just second time in last 11 meetings Notre Dame is favored over Michigan; home team won eight of last ten series games, with underdogs winning six of nine SU. Michigan is starting freshman QB- they were 15 of 28 for 197 passing yards in opener. irish have nine starters back on offense, Michigan has 10. Wolverines are 10-8 as an underdog since '00, 2-3 at home. I'm guessing Wolverines will cover WR Floyd better than Nevada did last week-- Irish were 17-20/332 passing.
Virginia lost 26-14 at home to Wm & Mary last week, turning ball over seven times (-6); they have senior QB (23 starts) but only five starters back on offense, six on defense. Cavaliers are 32-16 vs spread at home since 2001. TCU hasn't played yet; they've got only four starters back on defense, six on offense, but have junior QB with 23 starts under his belt. Horned Frogs are 7-12-1 as road favorite since '03. Should be a big edge for Virginia having already played, but they lost to a I-AA team.
Minnesota opens its new stadium off a 23-20 OT win at Syracuse, in a game where Gophers held Orange scoreless in second half/OT. Air Force crushed Nicholls State 72-0 last week, running option for 474 yards, but hard to tell much from that. Falcons are 17-12 vs spread as home dog in this decade; Minnesota is 2-5 as home favorite under Brewster. Red flag for Minnesota was 19-42 passing in dome, though they got ball to WR Decker in big spots. Syracuse only had 90 yards on 34 runs last week.
Now that Oklahoma State beat Georgia, they have to validate it with win over 15-point dog Houston, which gave up 699 yards in 56-37 loss LY to OSU (+15). Cougars are 6-4 as road dog since 2005- they jogged 55-7 last week, with 32-44/447 passing state vs NW Louisiana, so hard to tell much there. Cowboys were +3 in turnovers last week, but had 106 yds in penalties- they outgained Dawgs 307-257. OSU covered nine of last 11 as home favorite, 15 of last 23 non-league games.
LSU had solid 31-23 win at improved Washington last week, but they were outgained 478-321; Huskies were 25-45/321 passing, but threw a key pick-6. Tigers are 8-17 vs spread as home favorite under Les Miles, 11-24-2 vs spread in game following a win. Vanderbilt is 17-5 vs spread in last 22 games as road dog; they're 27-21 vs spread in SEC since '03, but haven't won in Baton Rouge since 1951. Vandy had 433 yards on the ground in 45-0 win over I-AA Western Carolina, a hard win to evaluate.
USC crushed Ohio State 35-3 LY, outgaining Buckeyes 348-207; Trojans crushed San Jose State 56-3 last week, running for 342 yards, passing for 278 more- they're 13-15 vs spread in last 28 games as road fave. OSU is 47-4 SU at home since 2002, but just 4-6 vs spread as an underdog under Tressel, 1-2 at home- they're 26-16 vs spread after a win. Buckeyes had huge trouble with Navy last week, stopping tying 2-point play at 2:33 to play in game. First road start for USC freshman QB Barkley.
Other games
-- North Carolina is 1-3 as road favorite since '04; they completed just nine of 22 passes vs Citadel last week. UConn is 8-2 as a home dog.
-- Penn State crushed Syracuse 55-13 LY (38-6 at half); they won 31-7 vs Akron last week (31-0 at half); they covered 15 of last 22 as a HF.
-- Virginia Tech lost 34-24 to Alabama in Atlanta last week, getting TD on kick return, but getting outgained 498-155. Hokies are 7-10-1 as HF the last three years. Marshall is 6-15 as road dog under Snyder.
-- Michigan State is 13-24-1 as home favorite since '01; Spartans may be looking ahead to Notre Dame last week. Central Michigan lost its opener 19-6 last week, getting outgained 448-182 at Arizona.
-- Northwestern covered just four of last 19 as home favorite; they're 3-8 vs spread as favorite under Fitzgerald. Eastern Michigan lost to Army at home last week, giving up 300 yards on the ground.
-- Wisconsin (-2) won 13-10 at Fresno State LY; Badgers are 15-10 as a home favorite since '04. Fresno is 15-10 as road underdog since '01.
-- Tulane lost 37-13 at home to Tulsa LY, despite its 19-23/325 passing; BYU had huge win vs Oklahoma in Dallas last week- Florida State comes to Provo next week, so huge sandwich game for BYU here.
-- Texas covered 13 of last 18 non-league games, but is 8-11 vs spread in last 19 games as road favorite. Wyoming covered 3 of last 14 as a dog.
-- Navy lost 31-27 at Ohio State (TY 342-363); they passed ball better than usual (9-13/156), but they're 4-9 as HF since 2005. Louisiana Tech gave up 556 yards in 37-13 loss at Auburn, 301 rushing, 255 passing.
-- Washington played its heart out last week, losing 31-23 to LSU, while outgaining Tigers 478-321; now they're expected to beat Idaho team that won a conference road game last week, 21-6 at New Mexico State (+3).
-- UAB had 295 rushing yards, 221 passing in 44-34 pasting of Rice in its opener, behind mobile senior QB Webb, but Blazers lost last couple games vs SMU, 28-27/22-9. SMU is 11-8-1 as road dog since 2005.
-- Pitt is 7-11 vs spread as road favorite since '02; they've got senior QB and 15 returning starters. Buffalo is 18-8 as underdog under Gill, 3-3 if a home dog-- they sprung another upset last week at UTEP (23-17, +6).
-- Kent State has 15 returning starters but a new QB; they lost 21-0 LY against Boston College in Cleveland (+10). Eagles have QB issues but do have seven starters back on both sides of the ball (12-7-2 as HF).
-- Rice is 10-14 as road dog since '05 after getting waxed 44-24 at UAB last week (+5.5). Texas Tech plays Texas next week, so lookahead is a possibility, but they had 34-48/405 passing stats in Potts' first start.
-- Washington State had some flu issues on campus last week; they are 10-7 as home dog, but this game is in Seattle, not Pullman. Hawai'i beat Central Arkansas 25-20 last week, surviving four turnovers.
-- Indiana covered seven of last 11 as home favorite; they struggled 19-13 vs Eastern Kentucky last week, running ball for only 73 yards. Western Michigan got crushed at Michigan last week, trailing 31-0 at the half.
-- Missouri was impressive in neutral field rout of Illinois, despite only nine returning starters; Tigers are 18-14 as HF since '02. Bowling Green covered nine of its last thirteen games as a road underdog.
-- Kansas is 5-2 as road favorite under Mangino. UTEP got beat at home by Buffalo last week; they're 6-3 as a home dog under Price (dog 18-10 vs spread in their last 28 home games).
-- Road team won three of last four Central Florida-Southern Miss tilts, with teams splitting last two played here (average total. 67). UCF beat I-AA Samford last week 28-24, but needed kick return for TD to win.
-- Miami, OH lost 42-0 to Kentucky on neutral field last week, getting outgained 488-188. Boise State is 20-9 as a home favorite since '03; they beat Oregon 19-8 on national TV last week, but offense looked shaky.
-- Tulsa had 201 rushing yards, 211 passing in 37-13 win at Superdome; they're still just 7-9 in last 16 games as road favorite. New Mexico lost at Texas A&M 41-6, giving up 606 yards (245 rushing, 361 passing).
-- Utah overcame three turnovers to beat Utah State again 35-17, with 233 rushing yards, 286 in air. San Jose State got crushed 56-3 at USC in its opener; Spartans are 5-2 as a home underdog since 2006.
-- UNLV is 11-5 as home dog under Sanford; they've got seven starters back on both sides of ball. Oregon State has only three returning starters on defense, but they've covered eight of last 11 as road favorite.
-- Nebraska thrashed FAU 49-3 last week, running for 259, passing for 231 yards; Huskers are 5-8 as HF since '07. Arkansas State returns eight starters on defense, seven on offense- they're 8-7 as a road underdog.
-- Alabama beat Va Tech 34-24 last week, but they're just 6-17 vs spread in last 23 games as home favorite. FIU didn't play last week; they're 5-7 as road dog under Cristobal, but have 10 starters back on offense.
-- Western Kentucky got crushed 63-7 at Tennessee last week, giving up 657 yards, 380 on ground. South Florida covered just three of last ten as road favorite; they have senior QB but just 12 starters back overall.
-- Troy got outscored 24-0 in second half of loss at Bowling Green last week; Trojans are 9-4 as underdog the last three years. Florida has game with Tennessee next week, so some tricks will be left in the bag here.
-- North Texas is 0-8 vs spread in game following a win since '05; Mean Green won 20-10 at Ball State last week (+17.5). Ohio U had 61 yards on ground in 23-16 home loss to UConn last week.
-- Memphis lost 45-14 at home to Ole Miss Sunday, completing just 17 of 36 passes; Tigers lost 21-7 at home to Middle Tennessee in their last meeting, in '07. MTSU lost 37-14 at Clemson last week (TY 299-361).
-- Kansas State gave up blocked punt for TD, snuck past UMass 21-17 last week; Wildcats are 1-8 as road favorite since '04. UL-Lafayette has 16 starters back but new QB; they're 0-4 as home dog last three years.
NCAAF ADDITIONAL
Week 2
Saturday, September 12
12:00 PM
DUKE vs. ARMY
Duke is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Duke is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Army is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
Army is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
12:00 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. BUFFALO
Pittsburgh is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games
Pittsburgh is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Buffalo is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Buffalo is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
12:00 PM
WESTERN MICHIGAN vs. INDIANA
Western Michigan is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Western Michigan is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games
Indiana is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
Indiana is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games
12:00 PM
IOWA vs. IOWA STATE
Iowa is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Iowa is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games on the road
Iowa State is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games
Iowa State is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
12:00 PM
NORTH CAROLINA vs. CONNECTICUT
North Carolina is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
North Carolina is 4-15 SU in its last 19 games on the road
Connecticut is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Connecticut's last 6 games at home
12:00 PM
SYRACUSE vs. PENN STATE
Syracuse is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Syracuse's last 9 games on the road
Penn State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Penn State is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games
12:00 PM
STANFORD vs. WAKE FOREST
Stanford is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Stanford is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Wake Forest is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
Wake Forest is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games
12:00 PM
FRESNO STATE vs. WISCONSIN
Fresno State is 16-8 SU in its last 24 games
Fresno State is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Wisconsin is 20-2 SU in its last 22 games at home
Wisconsin is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
12:00 PM
CENTRAL MICHIGAN vs. MICHIGAN STATE
Central Michigan is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Central Michigan's last 15 games on the road
Michigan State is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games
Michigan State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
12:00 PM
EASTERN MICHIGAN vs. NORTHWESTERN
Eastern Michigan is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games
Eastern Michigan is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
Northwestern is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games at home
Northwestern is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
12:21 PM
TROY vs. FLORIDA
Troy is 16-8 SU in its last 24 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Troy's last 6 games
Florida is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Florida is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
1:30 PM
MARSHALL vs. VIRGINIA TECH
Marshall is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Marshall is 5-15-2 ATS in its last 22 games on the road
Virginia Tech is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Virginia Tech is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
2:00 PM
KENT STATE vs. BOSTON COLLEGE
Kent State is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Kent State is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games
Boston College is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
Boston College is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
2:00 PM
ARKANSAS STATE vs. NEBRASKA
Arkansas State is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Arkansas State is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games on the road
Nebraska is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Nebraska is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
2:00 PM
MORGAN ST vs. AKRON
Morgan St is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Morgan St is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Akron is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Akron is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home
3:30 PM
LOUISIANA TECH vs. NAVY
Louisiana Tech is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Louisiana Tech's last 5 games
Navy is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home
3:30 PM
HOWARD vs. RUTGERS
Howard is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Howard is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Rutgers is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Rutgers is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
3:30 PM
TCU vs. VIRGINIA
TCU is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
TCU is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Virginia is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games at home
Virginia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
3:30 PM
IDAHO vs. WASHINGTON
Idaho is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
Idaho is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
3:30 PM
BYU vs. TULANE
BYU is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games
BYU is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games
Tulane is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Tulane is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
3:30 PM
TEXAS vs. WYOMING
Texas is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Texas is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games on the road
Wyoming is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games
3:30 PM
EAST CAROLINA vs. WEST VIRGINIA
East Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
East Carolina is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
West Virginia is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against East Carolina
West Virginia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against East Carolina
3:30 PM
HOUSTON vs. OKLAHOMA STATE
Houston is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Houston is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Oklahoma State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Oklahoma State is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games
3:30 PM
NOTRE DAME vs. MICHIGAN
Notre Dame is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Michigan
Notre Dame is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Michigan is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Notre Dame
Michigan is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Notre Dame
4:00 PM
UCLA vs. TENNESSEE
UCLA is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of UCLA's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Tennessee's last 12 games
Tennessee is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
4:00 PM
SOUTHERN METHODIST vs. UAB
Southern Methodist is 2-21 SU in its last 23 games
Southern Methodist is 1-3-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
UAB is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
UAB is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
5:00 PM
WEBER STATE vs. COLORADO STATE
Weber State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Weber State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Colorado State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Colorado State is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
5:35 PM
EASTERN WASHINGTON vs. CALIFORNIA
Eastern Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Eastern Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
California is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games at home
California is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
6:00 PM
JACKSONVILLE STATE vs. FLORIDA STATE
Jacksonville State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Jacksonville State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Florida State is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Florida State's last 7 games at home
6:00 PM
MURRAY STATE vs. NORTH CAROLINA STATE
Murray State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Murray State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
North Carolina State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
North Carolina State is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
6:00 PM
JAMES MADISON vs. MARYLAND
James Madison is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
James Madison is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Maryland is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Maryland is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:00 PM
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL vs. ALABAMA
Florida International is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
Florida International is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games
Alabama is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Alabama is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
7:00 PM
BOWLING GREEN vs. MISSOURI
Bowling Green is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Bowling Green is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Missouri is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Missouri is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games at home
7:00 PM
OHIO vs. NORTH TEXAS
Ohio is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Ohio is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
North Texas is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games
North Texas is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
7:00 PM
VANDERBILT vs. LSU
Vanderbilt is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games
Vanderbilt is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
LSU is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games
LSU is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games
7:00 PM
SOUTH CAROLINA vs. GEORGIA
South Carolina is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Georgia
South Carolina is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Georgia
Georgia is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Georgia is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games at home
7:00 PM
MEMPHIS vs. MIDDLE TENNESSEE
Memphis is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Memphis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Middle Tennessee is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games
Middle Tennessee is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games
7:00 PM
MISSISSIPPI STATE vs. AUBURN
Mississippi State is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Auburn
Mississippi State is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Auburn
Auburn is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Mississippi State
Auburn is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Mississippi State
7:00 PM
KANSAS STATE vs. LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
Kansas State is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 19 of Kansas State's last 25 games on the road
Louisiana-Lafayette is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games
Louisiana-Lafayette is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
IDAHO STATE vs. OKLAHOMA
Idaho State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Idaho State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Oklahoma is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oklahoma's last 7 games at home
7:00 PM
HAWAII vs. WASHINGTON STATE
Hawaii is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Hawaii is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games on the road
Washington State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Washington State is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games
7:00 PM
NEW HAMPSHIRE vs. BALL STATE
New Hampshire is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
New Hampshire is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Ball State is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Ball State's last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
AIR FORCE vs. MINNESOTA
Air Force is 15-7 SU in its last 22 games
Air Force is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Minnesota is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games at home
7:00 PM
RICE vs. TEXAS TECH
Rice is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Rice is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Texas Tech is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games
Texas Tech is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
7:00 PM
ILLINOIS STATE vs. ILLINOIS
Illinois State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Illinois State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Illinois is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Illinois is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games at home
7:00 PM
CENTRAL FLORIDA vs. SOUTHERN MISS
Central Florida is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games
Central Florida is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Southern Miss is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Southern Miss is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
7:00 PM
TEXAS SOUTHERN vs. LOUISIANA-MONROE
Texas Southern is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Texas Southern is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Louisiana-Monroe is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
Louisiana-Monroe is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
7:30 PM
WESTERN ILLINOIS vs. NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Western Illinois is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Western Illinois is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Northern Illinois is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Northern Illinois is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
7:30 PM
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE vs. CINCINNATI
Southeast Missouri State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Southeast Missouri State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Cincinnati is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 5 games at home
7:30 PM
SOUTH FLORIDA vs. WESTERN KENTUCKY
South Florida is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games
South Florida is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Western Kentucky is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games at home
Western Kentucky is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games
7:30 PM
KANSAS vs. TEXAS EL PASO
Kansas is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games
Kansas is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Texas El Paso is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Texas El Paso is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games at home
8:00 PM
SOUTHERN CAL vs. OHIO STATE
Southern Cal is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Southern Cal is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Ohio State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Ohio State is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
8:00 PM
MIAMI (OHIO) vs. BOISE STATE
Miami (Ohio) is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Miami (Ohio) is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Boise State is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games
Boise State is 13-1 SU in its last 14 games
8:00 PM
TULSA vs. NEW MEXICO
Tulsa is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Tulsa is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games on the road
New Mexico is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
New Mexico is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
8:00 PM
PRAIRIE VIEW vs. NEW MEXICO STATE
No trends available
New Mexico State is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
New Mexico State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
9:30 PM
S. UTAH vs. SAN DIEGO STATE
S. Utah is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
S. Utah is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
San Diego State is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
San Diego State is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games
10:00 PM
NORTHERN ARIZONA vs. ARIZONA
Northern Arizona is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Northern Arizona is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Arizona is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games at home
Arizona is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
10:15 PM
PURDUE vs. OREGON
Purdue is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Purdue is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Oregon is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Oregon is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
10:30 PM
UTAH vs. SAN JOSE STATE
Utah is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
San Jose State is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
San Jose State is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
11:00 PM
OREGON STATE vs. UNLV
Oregon State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Oregon State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
UNLV is 8-15 SU in its last 23 games at home
UNLV is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games
Week 2
Saturday, September 12
12:00 PM
DUKE vs. ARMY
Duke is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Duke is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Army is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
Army is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
12:00 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. BUFFALO
Pittsburgh is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games
Pittsburgh is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Buffalo is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Buffalo is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
12:00 PM
WESTERN MICHIGAN vs. INDIANA
Western Michigan is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Western Michigan is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games
Indiana is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
Indiana is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games
12:00 PM
IOWA vs. IOWA STATE
Iowa is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Iowa is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games on the road
Iowa State is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games
Iowa State is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
12:00 PM
NORTH CAROLINA vs. CONNECTICUT
North Carolina is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
North Carolina is 4-15 SU in its last 19 games on the road
Connecticut is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Connecticut's last 6 games at home
12:00 PM
SYRACUSE vs. PENN STATE
Syracuse is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Syracuse's last 9 games on the road
Penn State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Penn State is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games
12:00 PM
STANFORD vs. WAKE FOREST
Stanford is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Stanford is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Wake Forest is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
Wake Forest is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games
12:00 PM
FRESNO STATE vs. WISCONSIN
Fresno State is 16-8 SU in its last 24 games
Fresno State is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Wisconsin is 20-2 SU in its last 22 games at home
Wisconsin is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
12:00 PM
CENTRAL MICHIGAN vs. MICHIGAN STATE
Central Michigan is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Central Michigan's last 15 games on the road
Michigan State is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games
Michigan State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
12:00 PM
EASTERN MICHIGAN vs. NORTHWESTERN
Eastern Michigan is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games
Eastern Michigan is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
Northwestern is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games at home
Northwestern is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
12:21 PM
TROY vs. FLORIDA
Troy is 16-8 SU in its last 24 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Troy's last 6 games
Florida is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Florida is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
1:30 PM
MARSHALL vs. VIRGINIA TECH
Marshall is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Marshall is 5-15-2 ATS in its last 22 games on the road
Virginia Tech is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Virginia Tech is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
2:00 PM
KENT STATE vs. BOSTON COLLEGE
Kent State is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Kent State is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games
Boston College is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
Boston College is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
2:00 PM
ARKANSAS STATE vs. NEBRASKA
Arkansas State is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Arkansas State is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games on the road
Nebraska is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Nebraska is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
2:00 PM
MORGAN ST vs. AKRON
Morgan St is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Morgan St is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Akron is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Akron is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home
3:30 PM
LOUISIANA TECH vs. NAVY
Louisiana Tech is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Louisiana Tech's last 5 games
Navy is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home
3:30 PM
HOWARD vs. RUTGERS
Howard is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Howard is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Rutgers is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Rutgers is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
3:30 PM
TCU vs. VIRGINIA
TCU is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
TCU is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Virginia is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games at home
Virginia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
3:30 PM
IDAHO vs. WASHINGTON
Idaho is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
Idaho is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
3:30 PM
BYU vs. TULANE
BYU is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games
BYU is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games
Tulane is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Tulane is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
3:30 PM
TEXAS vs. WYOMING
Texas is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Texas is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games on the road
Wyoming is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games
3:30 PM
EAST CAROLINA vs. WEST VIRGINIA
East Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
East Carolina is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
West Virginia is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against East Carolina
West Virginia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against East Carolina
3:30 PM
HOUSTON vs. OKLAHOMA STATE
Houston is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Houston is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Oklahoma State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Oklahoma State is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games
3:30 PM
NOTRE DAME vs. MICHIGAN
Notre Dame is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Michigan
Notre Dame is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Michigan is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Notre Dame
Michigan is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Notre Dame
4:00 PM
UCLA vs. TENNESSEE
UCLA is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of UCLA's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Tennessee's last 12 games
Tennessee is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
4:00 PM
SOUTHERN METHODIST vs. UAB
Southern Methodist is 2-21 SU in its last 23 games
Southern Methodist is 1-3-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
UAB is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
UAB is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
5:00 PM
WEBER STATE vs. COLORADO STATE
Weber State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Weber State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Colorado State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Colorado State is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
5:35 PM
EASTERN WASHINGTON vs. CALIFORNIA
Eastern Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Eastern Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
California is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games at home
California is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
6:00 PM
JACKSONVILLE STATE vs. FLORIDA STATE
Jacksonville State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Jacksonville State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Florida State is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Florida State's last 7 games at home
6:00 PM
MURRAY STATE vs. NORTH CAROLINA STATE
Murray State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Murray State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
North Carolina State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
North Carolina State is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
6:00 PM
JAMES MADISON vs. MARYLAND
James Madison is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
James Madison is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Maryland is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Maryland is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:00 PM
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL vs. ALABAMA
Florida International is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
Florida International is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games
Alabama is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Alabama is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
7:00 PM
BOWLING GREEN vs. MISSOURI
Bowling Green is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Bowling Green is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Missouri is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Missouri is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games at home
7:00 PM
OHIO vs. NORTH TEXAS
Ohio is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Ohio is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
North Texas is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games
North Texas is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
7:00 PM
VANDERBILT vs. LSU
Vanderbilt is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games
Vanderbilt is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
LSU is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games
LSU is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games
7:00 PM
SOUTH CAROLINA vs. GEORGIA
South Carolina is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Georgia
South Carolina is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Georgia
Georgia is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Georgia is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games at home
7:00 PM
MEMPHIS vs. MIDDLE TENNESSEE
Memphis is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Memphis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Middle Tennessee is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games
Middle Tennessee is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games
7:00 PM
MISSISSIPPI STATE vs. AUBURN
Mississippi State is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Auburn
Mississippi State is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Auburn
Auburn is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Mississippi State
Auburn is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Mississippi State
7:00 PM
KANSAS STATE vs. LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
Kansas State is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 19 of Kansas State's last 25 games on the road
Louisiana-Lafayette is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games
Louisiana-Lafayette is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
IDAHO STATE vs. OKLAHOMA
Idaho State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Idaho State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Oklahoma is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oklahoma's last 7 games at home
7:00 PM
HAWAII vs. WASHINGTON STATE
Hawaii is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Hawaii is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games on the road
Washington State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Washington State is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games
7:00 PM
NEW HAMPSHIRE vs. BALL STATE
New Hampshire is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
New Hampshire is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Ball State is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Ball State's last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
AIR FORCE vs. MINNESOTA
Air Force is 15-7 SU in its last 22 games
Air Force is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Minnesota is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games at home
7:00 PM
RICE vs. TEXAS TECH
Rice is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Rice is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Texas Tech is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games
Texas Tech is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
7:00 PM
ILLINOIS STATE vs. ILLINOIS
Illinois State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Illinois State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Illinois is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Illinois is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games at home
7:00 PM
CENTRAL FLORIDA vs. SOUTHERN MISS
Central Florida is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games
Central Florida is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Southern Miss is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Southern Miss is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
7:00 PM
TEXAS SOUTHERN vs. LOUISIANA-MONROE
Texas Southern is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Texas Southern is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Louisiana-Monroe is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
Louisiana-Monroe is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
7:30 PM
WESTERN ILLINOIS vs. NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Western Illinois is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Western Illinois is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Northern Illinois is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Northern Illinois is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
7:30 PM
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE vs. CINCINNATI
Southeast Missouri State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Southeast Missouri State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Cincinnati is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 5 games at home
7:30 PM
SOUTH FLORIDA vs. WESTERN KENTUCKY
South Florida is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games
South Florida is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Western Kentucky is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games at home
Western Kentucky is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games
7:30 PM
KANSAS vs. TEXAS EL PASO
Kansas is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games
Kansas is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Texas El Paso is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Texas El Paso is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games at home
8:00 PM
SOUTHERN CAL vs. OHIO STATE
Southern Cal is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Southern Cal is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Ohio State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Ohio State is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
8:00 PM
MIAMI (OHIO) vs. BOISE STATE
Miami (Ohio) is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Miami (Ohio) is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Boise State is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games
Boise State is 13-1 SU in its last 14 games
8:00 PM
TULSA vs. NEW MEXICO
Tulsa is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Tulsa is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games on the road
New Mexico is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
New Mexico is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
8:00 PM
PRAIRIE VIEW vs. NEW MEXICO STATE
No trends available
New Mexico State is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
New Mexico State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
9:30 PM
S. UTAH vs. SAN DIEGO STATE
S. Utah is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
S. Utah is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
San Diego State is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
San Diego State is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games
10:00 PM
NORTHERN ARIZONA vs. ARIZONA
Northern Arizona is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Northern Arizona is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Arizona is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games at home
Arizona is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
10:15 PM
PURDUE vs. OREGON
Purdue is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Purdue is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Oregon is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Oregon is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
10:30 PM
UTAH vs. SAN JOSE STATE
Utah is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Utah is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
San Jose State is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
San Jose State is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
11:00 PM
OREGON STATE vs. UNLV
Oregon State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Oregon State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
UNLV is 8-15 SU in its last 23 games at home
UNLV is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games
