Confidential Kick-Off!! The Gold Sheet!!
America's Handicapping Leaders For 50 Seasons!
11 WASHINGTON over *Philadelphia
Late Score Forecast:
WASHINGTON 20 - *Philadelphia 16
(Monday, September 17)
Washington RB Clinton Portis showed few effects from his knee tendinitis last
week in rushing 17 times for 98 yards (5.8 ypc) and a score against a tough
Miami defense that allowed the 2nd-fewest rush TDs in the NFL last season.
Redskin QB Jason Campbell connected with WR Antwaan Randle El 5 times for 162
yards against the Dolphins, and he should make progress, as the win against
the Dolphins should be a significant morale boost. Philly's offense looked
anything but sharp at Green Bay last week, as Eagle QB Donovan McNabb
completed just 15 of 33 passes in his first action since injuring his knee in
Week 11 LY. Eagles also lost key defender CB Lito Sheppard (2 Pro Bowls; 6
ints. LY) with a sprained knee against the Pack (he was already nursing a
strained oblique).
10 *INDIANA over Akron
Late Score Forecast:
*INDIANA 39 - Akron 16
Indiana HC Bill Lynch has done an excellent job getting the Hoosiers mentally
ready to play this season in the wake of former coach Terry Hoeppner's death.
The team is focused and playing with purpose. Talent-wise, this is one of
the most gifted Hoosier squads in years, as maturing soph QB Kellen Lewis has
thrown for 3 scores in each of the first two games as his receiving stars
James Hardy (6-7; 51 catches LY) & James Bailey (6-2; 40 recs. LY) have been
augmented by emergence of soph smurf wideout Ray Fisher (9 catches vs. W.
Mich.). Akron attack has been constricted by delayed development of soph QBs
Chris Jaquemain & lefty scrambler Carlton Jackson. Neither has distinguished
himself, and Zip HC Brookhart has also been hampered by an OL that has 4 new
starters (2 are RS frosh, another a soph). Two-TD spread not enough.
10 *NORTH CAROLINA over Virginia
Late Score Forecast:
*NORTH CAROLINA 27 - Virginia 13
Long-time ACC scouts are extremely bullish on chemistry-rich, hungry UNC
squad that's thrilled to be playing for upbeat, respected 1st-year mentor
Butch Davis after suffering through 5 years of bumbling, brutish John
Bunting. Tar Heels quick-learning, accurate 6-3 RS frosh QB Yates (66%; 344
YP vs. E. Carolina) will burn a Virginia 2ndary that has tendency to give up
too many big plays. Conversely, Cavs frustrated HC Groh says he will
continue to rotate his QBs (inserted true frosh Lalich), since soph
triggerman Sewell has seriously struggled in early going without top WR
Ogletree (out for year). Either QB will get pressure from hard-charging UNC
frosh DT Austin (rated nation's top prep DLman). So, look for rejuvenated &
revenge-minded Heels (lost 23-0 in Charlottesville LY) to cover small number
vs. poor-travelin' UVA squad that's 1-9 as a road dog since 2004.
10 *ALABAMA over Arkansas
Late Score Forecast:
*ALABAMA 28 - Arkansas 13
SEC scouts say it won't take much for HC Nick Saban to get the Crimson Tide
ready for this match vs. Arkansas, which won LY's meeting 24-23 in OT in
Fayetteville, thanks to three missed Alabama FGs in regulation and a blown
PAT in the extra session! Moreover, improving jr. QB John Parker Wilson, who
was making his first road start in that contest, provides the Tide with an
important balance edge on offense. Razorbacks had last week off to prepare
more plays for their versatile, excellent RB duo of McFadden & F. Jones.
However, with the health of star WR Marcus Monk (knee) up in the air, Saban
can focus his revamped, NFL-style, Bama defense (255-pound ILB Prince Hall
returned from suspension last week) vs. Hogs' ground game. In the first of
several SEC "crucials" for Saban's crew, Red Elephants get their revenge.
10 *FLA. ATLANTIC over Minnesota
(at Dolphin Stadium)
Late Score Forecast:
*FLA. ATLANTIC 29 - Minnesota 27
Acknowledge FAU's recent woes outside of Sun Belt, failing to cover last 8 in
role. But Owls usually on road for those paydays (including the last 7), and
now get rare chance to host BCS conference foe in south Florida. And Howard
Schnellenberger's troops are catching Minnesota at a good time. That's
because Gophers in adjustment phase for 1st-year HC Tim Brewster, with RS
frosh QB Andy Weber still getting feel for Minny's new spread attack.
Meanwhile, early efforts vs. modest MAC opposition have underlined concerns
about Gopher "D," especially suspect 2ndary already torched by undynamic
Bowling Green & Miami-O attacks. No reason maturing FAU "O" and emerging soph
QB Rusty Smith can't do same. And vet (10 starters back), quick-footed Owl
"D" that put clamps on potent Middle Tennessee in opener not a bad matchup
vs. young UM QB Weber, making first road start.
TOTALS: UNDER (42«) in Minnesota-Detroit game-Vikes' defense rugged; can't
trust QB Tarvaris Jackson to put up too many points for visitor; OVER (44;
est.) in Seattle-Arizona game-Zona defense has problems vs. Holmgren, who has
gone "over" 14 of last 18 overall away.
HONORABLE MENTION (Nine-Rated Games): PURDUE (-20) vs. Central Michigan-QB
Painter and Boiler offense scoring nearly at will; Purdue defense vastly
superior to that of Chippewas...IOWA STATE (+17) vs. Iowa-Price inflated
after last week's results; Cyclones have just enough to extend 8-1 spread
mark in series; KANSAS (-22) vs. Toledo-Soph QB Reesing sparking Jayhawk
offense; Rockets giving up 52 ppg!...CENTRAL FLORIDA (+19) vs.
Texas-Longhorns WR corp banged up; Horns don't dominate with run as they used
to when Vince was QB; JACKSONVILLE (-11) vs. Atlanta-Post-Vick era off to bad
start in Minnesota; it might get worse facing angry Jaguars.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 (THE GOLD SHEET )
OVER THE TOTAL PITTSBURGH 30 - Buffalo 17--Pittsburgh has been a high-pay "over" team at Heinz (14-1-1 last 16!), thanks partly to LY's Ben Roethlisberger interceptions (an NFL-leading 23 during injury-plagued season). He has focused on avoiding them (none in opener; but 4 TDP) since the start of training camp. The Polamalu-sparked zone-blitz defense should cause plenty of problems for the rebuilt Buffalo OL (at least three new starters TY).
(04-Pittsburgh +9' 29-24...SR: Pittsburgh 12-9)
Cincinnati 27 - CLEVELAND 13--Bengals' superior offense dominated in LY's meetings, with Cincy outscoring hated rival 64-17. Considering Cleveland's instability in OL and secondary, plus its dubious situation at QB, prefer to rely on Carson Palmer, "Ocho Cinco," and mates to extend their 15-4-1 spread mark last 20 as visitor. Is Jamal Lewis (35 YR in opener) really the answer for Browns at RB? Palmer, 49 of 72 vs. Cleveland LY, now further removed from Jan. 2006 knee injury.
(06-CINCY 34-Cle. 17...Ci.27-17 Ci.32/160 Cl.20/57 Ci.24/40/2/321 Cl.20/33/2/244 Ci.0 Cl.1)
(06-Cincy 30-CLE. 0...Ci.24-9 Ci.35/99 Cl.14/51 Ci.27/34/1/289 Cl.18/29/4/152 Ci.0 Cl.1)
(06-CINCINNATI -10 34-17, Cincinnati -3 30-0...SR: Cleveland 34-33)
Indianapolis 23 - TENNESSEE 20--Predictions of the demise of the 2007 Indy defense (5-6 new starters after free agency & injuries) have turned out to be premature. But upstart Tennessee and Vince Young gave Colts all they could handle LY, covering both meetings and winning the second. Can Titans pound out another 278 YR, as they did in Jacksonville, vs. smallish Indy defense on grass? Last four in series "under."
(06-INDY 14-Tenn. 13...I.20-15 T.31/214 I.34/154 I.20/31/1/166 T.10/21/1/63 I.1 T.0)
(06-TENN. 20-Indy 17...T.21-20 T.35/219 I.29/100 I.21/28/2/351 T.15/25/2/163 T.0 I.0)
(06-INDIANAPOLIS -18 14-13, TENNESSEE +7' 20-17...SR: Indianapolis 14-11)
Houston 20 - CAROLINA 16--Not sure that a win over the struggling Chiefs is a definitive "buy" signal for Houston. And we'll see if the supposedly-improved Texans OL can deal with Julius Peppers & friends. But there are enough other indicators that Texans might be a team to watch, especially with top '06 draftee Mario Williams 2 (sacks, fumble ret. TD vs. KC) making an impact, new QB Matt Schaub proving a quick study in Gary Kubiak's offense, and rookie WR find Jacoby Jones making it trickier for opposing defenses to double up on Andre Johnson.
(03-HOUSTON +6' 14-10...SR: Houston 1-0)
San Francisco 23 - ST. LOUIS 17--We're not going to blame St. Louis low-keying it in preseason for their shoddy effort in opening loss vs. Carolina. But Steven Jackson (two fumbles, only 58 YR) looked as if he could have used a few more carries in August. And we're beginning to wonder what options def. coord. Jim Haslett might have with a DL that's counting on rookie NGs Carriker & Ryan to slow the run, but was trampled in opener. With presence of Frank Gore for S.F., QB Alex Smith now mature enough to take advantage.
(06-S.F. 20-St. L. 13...St.17-14 Sf.33/127 St.28/118 Sf.11/22/0/233 St.19/34/0/147 Sf.1 St.1)
(06-ST.L. 20-S.Frn. 17...St.23-20 Sf.31/171 St.29/140 St.24/37/1/209 Sf.13/25/2/148 St.0 Sf.1)
(06-SAN FRANCISCO +3 20-13, ST. LOUIS -4' 20-17...SR: St. Louis 59-54-2)
NY GIANTS 26 - Green Bay 14--During LY's rebuilding season, Packers were 5-2-1 as a road dog. But G.B.'s offense failed to impress in Week One, generating no TDs, even though the defense did perform well in holding Philly to 13. Giants offense owns the better weapons in this one, and their greater imperative to avoid 0-2 start should be another help. N.Y. has the pass rushers (check Umenyiora) that cause Bret Favre to hurry. He'll have to wait before passing John Elway on the QB win list.
(04-NY Giants +6' 14-7...SR: Green Bay 28-22-2)
JACKSONVILLE 24 - Atlanta 9--Tough start for the unintended new era in Atlanta. First, Vick-less Falcons had to deal with the stingy run defense of the Vikings. Now, they must contend with embarrassed Jacksonville defense after it allowed 278 YR in opener. Good chance the Atlanta defense wears down chasing QB Garrard, RB F. Taylor, and mini-bull RB/KR Maurice Jones-Drew (TDs in eight straight games to end LY). Jags 7-3 vs. spread last 10 at home.
(03-ATLANTA -3 21-14...SR: Jacksonville 2-1)
New Orleans 21 - TAMPA BAY 20--Buccaneers already beat up (check status of QB Garcia and RB C. Williams). But T.B. and Jon Gruden used to playing shorthanded after doing it for virtually all of LY! Vaunted Saints' offense failed to score a TD in opener at Indy, and Bucs familiar with the Drew Brees-Reggie Bush attack. It bodes poorly to start 0-2 in the NFL, so look for desperation fight from host.
(06-N. ORL. 24-T. Bay 21...T.18-15 T.33/187 N.25/143 T.20/31/0/219 N.21/33/0/171 N.0 T.1)
(06-N. Orl. 31-T. BAY 14...N.19-11 T.18/68 N.35/49 N.24/32/0/314 T.18/31/0/158 N.0 T.1)
(06-NEW ORLEANS -6' 24-21, New Orleans P 31-14...SR: New Orleans 19-11)
DETROIT 23 - Minnesota 16--Minny has won last ten meetings in series!!! However, with inexperienced QB Tarvaris Jackson making just the second road start of his career (generated just 3 FDs and 104 total yards in LY's 9-7 foul-weather loss in G.B.; only TD scored via int.), must side with veteran Jon Kitna in this one. After all, Detroit prefers the pass on offense; Vikes excel vs. the run. Time for streak to end, despite new Minny RB Adrian Peterson (103 YR, 60 receiving in opener).
(06-MINN. 26-Det. 17...M.18-13 M.30/135 D.11/16 M.26/34/1/201 D.23/42/3/201 M.2 D.1)
(06-Minn. 30-DET. 20...M.21-20 M.44/172 D.10/M3 D.28/41/3/272 M.14/22/1/153 M.1 D.3)
(06-MINNESOTA -6' 26-17, Minnesota +1' 30-20...SR: Minnesota 60-29-2)
Dallas 20 - MIAMI 19--Cowboys put on an exciting offensive show with their 45-point outburst Sunday night vs. the Giants. But points won't come so easy vs. veteran Miami defense, fired up to avoid that debilitating 0-2 start (when chances of making the playoffs dip way down). With Dallas secondary vulnerable, look for Trent Green (24 of 38 in opener at Washington) to improve in Cam Cameron's official home debut.
(03-Miami +3 40-21...SR: Miami 7-4)
ARIZONA 24 - Seattle 23--Regular-season home debut of Arizona HC Ken Whisenhunt. And Seattle was 0-4 as a road favorite in LY's injury-plagued season. If Cardinals intend on being a factor in the NFC West race, beating the three-time defending division champs would go a long way. So, will "take" with Arizona's young talent maturing, and will look "over" (5 of last 6 in series "over;" Seahawks 14-3-1 "over" on road.)
(06-SEA. 21-Ariz. 10...S.20-17 S.36/146 A.20/65 S.12/27/2/195 A.24/38/1/191 S.0 A.1)
(06-ARIZ. 27-Sea. 21...S.21-20 S.29/120 A.33/113 A.21/34/1/232 S.20/28/0/213 A.0 S.3)
(06-SEATTLE -7 21-10, ARIZONA +3 27-21...SR: EVEN 8-8)
BALTIMORE 23 - NY Jets 10--Baltimore defense tends to be even nastier at home (only 12 ppg LY), where Ravens are 17-8-1 last 26 when favored ("under" 11 of last 17 as host). Will N.Y.'s decision to dump starting G Pete Kendall come back to haunt the Jets (especially Chad Pennington) vs. the rugged Pryce-Gregg-Ngata Baltimore defensive front? Quite likely, especially if RB Thomas Jones (42 YR Game One) can't get going. If LT Jonathon Ogden (turf toe) ready to go, RB McGahee should enjoy nice home debut.
(05-BALTIMORE -7 13-3...SR: Baltimore 4-1)
DENVER 20 - Oakland 14--Things might have gone better for Oakland in its opener had Sebastian Janikowski not destroyed Raider momentum by going 0-3 on FGs. Still, Oakland did appear to be out of LY's malaise, with Josh McCown operating Lane Kiffin's quick passing game well enough to hit 30 of 40 (but 2 ints., 1 lost fumble). They have a good chance to improve some in second game against hated rival. Nine of last 11 in series "under."
(06-DENVER 13-Oak. 3...D.15-14 D.31/144 O.30/85 O.13/26/1/159 D.11/18/0/91 D.1 O.1)
(06-Denver 17-OAK. 13...13-13 D.26/63 O.26/46 D.20/31/3/201 O.18/33/0/198 D.0 O.2)
(06-DENVER -14 13-3, Denver -9 17-13...SR: Oakland 54-39-2)
CHICAGO 29 - Kansas City 6--With K.C. QB & receivers far from scary, Larry Johnson (only 10 for 43 in opener) figures to find slow going vs. Brian Urlacher and the rugged Chicago front seven, especially with DT Tommie Harris looking 100% after LY's injury. Chiefs' shaky OTs will have their hands full vs. Bears' DE rotation of A. Ogunleye, A. Brown & Mark Anderson. Bears (4 giveaways last week in S.D.) 2-0 vs. spread in regular season LY after a loss.
(03-KANSAS CITY -8' 31-3...SR: Chicago 5-4)
*NEW ENGLAND 23 - San Diego 22--Chargers want revenge for their 4th-Q collapse vs. Pats in LY's AFC playoffs. Truly, there are easier teams to seek revenge against. However, S.D. has now won 11 straight in regular season, and Chargers 12-1-2 last 15 as a dog! Their only 3 losses LY (including playoffs) by 3 points each! Tom Brady (22 of 28), Randy Moss (9 for 183; hates "quiz shows"), and Wes Welker (6 recs.) went "nuts" in N.E. opener vs. Jets. But Chargers tougher than Jets; N.E. defense missing starters Seymour & Harrison. TV--NBC
(06-N. Eng. 24-S. DIEGO 21...S.21-18 S.33/148 N.21/51 N.27/51/3/276 S.14/32/1/204 N.0 S.3)
(06-New England +4' 24-21 (AFC Playoffs)...SR: New England 18-14-2)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
*PHILADELPHIA 19 - Washington 16--Donovan McNabb (15 of 33) was a little slow on the trigger in his return at G.B. Philly defense did not allow a TD, but Packers benefited enormously from two muffed punts. Much is being asked of young Wash. QB J. Campbell (only 8 career starts; 222 YP last week). But ground game (182 yds. vs. Miami) and defense giving him solid support. Redskins' conservative style has helped series go "under" 6 of last 7 meetings. CABLE TV--ESPN
(06-PHIL. 27-Wash. 3...P.17-15 W.31/146 P.34/145 P.12/26/0/220 W.16/32/1/132 P.0 W.0)
(06-Phil. 21-WASH. 19...W.20-14 W.40/210 P.22/99 W.16/28/2/188 P.15/23/0/164 P.1 W.0)
(06-PHILADELPHIA -7 27-3, Philadelphia -1' 21-19...SR: Washington 75-64-5)
MONDAY NIGHT HISTORY
Washington and Philadelphia on Monday Night
Washington is 8-18 straight-up and 8-18 vs. the pointspread on the road on Monday Night Football;
16-11 straight-up and 15-11-1 vs. the pointspread at home on Monday Night Football.
Philadelphia is 15-10 straight-up and 16-9 vs. the pointspread at home on Monday Night Football;
9-10 straight-up and 11-8 vs. the pointspread on the road on Monday Night Football.
HEAD-TO-HEAD MEETINGS SINCE 2006 (not necessarily Mon. night)
2006 Reg. Seas.: Philadelphia -1½ beat Washington 21-19 at Washington
Reg. Seas.: Philadelphia -7 beat Washington 27-3 at Philadelphia
PERFORMANCE BREAKDOWN (1993-06)
Favorites vs. Pointspread
Favored by 1-6½ points Won 83, Lost 87, Tied 3
Favored by 7 points or more Won 32, Lost 25, Tied 2
Total Favorites Won 115, Lost 112, Tied 5
Home Teams vs. Pointspreads
Home Team Favorite Won 83, Lost 83, Tied 5
Home Team Underdog Won 29, Lost 31
Home Team at Pick Won 1, Lost 0
Total Home Team Won 113, Lost 114, Tied 5
NFL KEY RELEASES
HOUSTON by 4 over Carolina
CHICAGO by 23 over Kansas City
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
OVER THE TOTAL in the Buffalo-Pittsburgh game
NFL RATINGS & POINTSPREAD RECORDS
All teams measured from the TOP RATING of zero. HFV - Home Field Value. Deduct allotted points for HFV from rating of Home Team. R - Current Power Rating. SUR - Straight-Up Won-Loss Record. PSR - Won-Loss Record vs. Pointspread. O/U-Total Over-under record (number of games that went over-number of games that went under). PF & PA - Average Points Scored For and Against. Results at Home listed under Home. Results on Road listed under Away. Teams with a bold + or - have had their ratings moved 2 points or more for the better (+) or worse (-) since last week.
TOTAL HOME AWAY
TEAM R HFV SUR PSR O/U PF-PA PSR PF-PA PSR PF-PA
Arizona 11 2 - - - - - - -
Atlanta 13 3 0-1 0-1 0-1 3-24 - - 0-1 3-24
Baltimore 4 3 - - - - - - -
Buffalo 9 3 0-1 1-0 0-1 14-15 1-0 14-15 - -
Carolina 7 2 1-0 1-0 0-1 27-13 - - 1-0 27-13
Chicago 4 3 0-1 0-1 0-1 3-14 - - 0-1 3-14
Cincinnati 4 3 - - - - - - -
Cleveland 13 2 0-1 0-1 1-0 7-34 0-1 7-34 - -
Dallas 4 3 1-0 1-0 1-0 45-35 1-0 45-35 - -
Denver 4 3 1-0 0-1 0-1 15-14 - - 0-1 15-14
Detroit+ 11 2 1-0 1-0 1-0 36-21 - - 1-0 36-21
Green Bay 9 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 16-13 1-0 16-13 - -
Houston 9 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 20-3 1-0 20-3 - -
Indianapolis+ -2 4 1-0 1-0 0-1 41-10 1-0 41-10 - -
Jacksonville 7 3 0-1 0-1 0-1 10-13 0-1 10-13 - -
Kansas City- 11 3 0-1 0-1 0-1 3-20 - - 0-1 3-20
Miami 10 2 0-1 0-0-1 0-1 13-16 - - 0-0 13-16
Minnesota 11 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 24-3 1-0 24-3 - -
New England+ -3 3 1-0 1-0 1-0 38-14 - - 1-0 38-14
New Orleans 3 4 0-1 0-1 0-1 10-41 - - 0-1 10-41
NY Giants 7 2 0-1 0-1 1-0 35-45 - - 0-1 35-45
NY Jets 8 2 0-1 0-1 1-0 14-38 0-1 14-38 - -
Oakland 12 2 0-1 0-1 1-0 21-36 0-1 21-36 - -
Philadelphia 5 3 0-1 0-1 0-1 13-16 - - 0-1 13-16
Pittsburgh 4 3 1-0 1-0 1-0 34-7 - - 1-0 34-7
St. Louis 11 2 0-1 0-1 0-1 13-27 0-1 13-27 - -
San Diego 1 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 14-3 1-0 14-3 - -
San Francisco 12 3 - - - - - - -
Seattle 6 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 20-6 1-0 20-6 - -
Tampa Bay 9 2 0-1 0-1 0-1 6-20 - - 0-1 6-20
Tennessee 6 3 1-0 1-0 0-1 13-10 - - 1-0 13-10
Washington 10 2 1-0 0-0-1 0-1 16-13 0-0 16-13 - -
College Analysis
KEY TO FOOTBALL ANALYSES
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. Scores and pointspreads (in parentheses) are results of most recent meetings in series. P—Pick Game. SR—Series Record (official league games only), with team leading in series, number of games won, lost and tied. NL—No Line. OPR—Average Opponents’ Power Rating (at the time they met) of all TGS-rated teams played. TGS Key Releases are underlined and denoted with a star ().
Some frequently-appearing abbreviations. HC—Head Coach (also, college Homecoming Game, when listed in score line). “O”—Offense. “D”—Defense. DDs—Double Digits. OL—Offensive Line or Lineman. DL—Defensive Line or Lineman. KR-Kick Returner. o.c.—Offensive Coordinator. d.c.—Defensive Coordinator. YR—Yards Rushing. YP—Yards Passing. recs.—Receptions. ints.—Interceptions. STs—Special Teams. ypg—Yards per Game. ppg—Points per Game. ypc—Yards per Carry (or Catch, for receivers). LY—Last Year. TY—This Year. Y—Year or Years. TDP—Touchdown Passes. FA—Free Agent. SU—Straight Up. Games are listed in the Don Best rotation used in the majority of Las Vegas sportsbooks.
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.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
*West Virginia 42 - MARYLAND 19--KO power? West Virginia, trailing 16-13 mid-way thru 3rd Q on road at fired-up in-state rival Marshall last week, scored 35 points in final 21:30 to win easily (and cover huge spread!). QB White & RB Slaton led charge, as usual. And that veteran duo has a new sidekick in quick-as-a-wink true frosh RB Devine (3 TDs, nearly 14 yards per touch in first 2 games). Stodgy Maryland attack (just 270 total yards & 14 FDs at lowly Florida Intl.) can't keep pace. TV--ESPN
(06-W. VA. 45-Md. 24...M.24-17 W.43/340 M.33/122 M.24/45/2/211 W.6/9/0/43 W.1 M.3)
(06-WVA -17 45-24 06-Wva +3 31-19 05-WVA -6' 19-16 (OT)...SR: West Va. 22-21-2)
*Tcu 23 - AIR FORCE 10--Now that TCU doesn't have to concern itself with BCS talk for a while, Frogs can focus full attention on MWC. That's bad news for AFA, as Gary Patterson's speedy "D" wrecked Fisher DeBerry's option past two years, and Falcs still not balancing new-look "O" as well as HC Calhoun would like (run/pass ratio about 4:1). Chance for TCU RS frosh QB Dalton to breathe a little after facing relentless Texas pressure last week.
(06-TCU 38-A. Force 14...T.21-12 T.42/141 A.44/98 T.23/32/0/236 A.4/11/1/44 T.1 A.3)
(06-TCU -17 38-14 05-Tcu +1 48-10...SR: TCU 4-1-1)
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
ADDED GAME
*Oklahoma State 31 - TROY 26--After murderous (but financially-rewarding) start at Arkansas and at Florida, Troy finally home, where it has ambushed more than one foe. Considering OSU's 2-8 spread mark last 10 away, plus Trojans' developing corps of athletes, led by sr. QB Haugabook, Troy should fight to the end. Did Cowboys find a new starting QB (Z. Robinson 3 TDP) last week after Bobby Reid's injury? CABLE TV--ESPN2 (FIRST MEETING)
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
Illinois 22 - SYRACUSE 17--Syracuse offense laboring early, but give the Orangemen a shot to hang with Illinois side that continued to make mistakes and had trouble finishing off drives against W. Illinois. Illini ground game will do some damage against Syracuse defensive front that's allowed 210 ypg rushing, but feel uncomfortable laying more than a few points on road with Zook's youthful group.
(06-Syr. 31-ILL. 21...I.18-17 S.44/202 I.31/110 I.17/33/1/288 S.9/18/1/167 S.0 I.1)
(06-Syracuse +3' 31-21...SR: Illinois 10-2)
CONNECTICUT 46 - Temple 10--Young Temple squad filled with self-doubt after getting drilled at home by formerly bedraggled Buffalo. And hapless Owls have lost last 7 on road by average score of 49-8. UConn's offense clicking with hotshot new juco QB Lorenzen at helm, and Husky defense hasn't been scored on since first couple minutes of opener. (04-CONNECTICUT -18 45-31...SR: Temple 7-2)
NORTH CAROLINA 26 - Virginia 19--Cavalier HC Al Groh falling under heavy criticism in Charlottesville. And road providing little respite, as UVa just 2-9 SU, 1-10 vs. spread last 11 as visitor. Savvy new Carolina mentor Butch Davis won't let his baby-faced Tar Heels stay down after last week's last-second loss at East Carolina. Confident UNC RS frosh QB Yates has fired 6 TDP in first 2 games.
(06-VA. 23-N. Car. 0...V.20-11 V.38/194 N.33/98 V.18/26/0/176 N.9/20/1/84 V.0 N.2)
(06-VA. -6 23-0 05-UNC P 7-5 04-VA. -21' 56-24...SR: North Carolina 57-50-4)
PENN STATE 51 - Buffalo 10--Penn State continued to impress with another win-and-cover as a big favorite against ND (now 12-4 vs. number last 16 laying double digits). Buffalo off a satisfying win against downtrodden Temple, but don't see Bull QB Drew Willy posing much of a threat to Nittany Lion defense (no TDs TY) in hostile environs of Beaver Stadium. Buffalo couldn't slow Rutgers' attack, and Penn State offense every bit as potent. (DNP...SR: Buffalo 1-0)
VANDERBILT 30 - Mississippi 20--With Vandy's dual threat QB Nickson expected back (see Special Ticker), inclined to lay smallish number vs. poor-travelin' Ole Miss squad that's just 2-9 SU away last 2+Ys. 'Dores balanced attack welcomes penetrable Rebel defense (1,117 yds. so far!) after being frustrated by athletic Bama stop unit last week. And Vandy has circled this date after bitter 17-10 loss LY (see Looking for an Angle). Watch Vandy's all-star WR Bennett (only 4 catches vs. Tide) rebound in big way vs. soft Ole Miss 2ndary.
(06-MISS. 17-Vandy 10...V.23-7 M.38/148 V.41/129 V.21/33/1/271 M.3/9/2/31 M.0 V.4)
(06-MISS. +1' 17-10 05-VANDY -2' 31-23 04-MISS. -6' 26-23 (OT)...SR: Miss. 46-33-2)
AUBURN 30 - Mississippi State 6--MSU's rare 38-point explosion vs. defenseless Tulane doesn't mean much, so look for angry Auburn to vent frustration following nationally-televised 26-23 OT home loss vs. Big East contender South Florida. Expect mistake-prone Bulldog QB Henig (7 ints. so far) to self-destruct vs. swarming Tiger defense that has skunked MSU the last two years. Demanding Auburn HC Tuberville will fix speedy RS frosh RB Fannin's fumble problems (lost 2 vs. Bulls) in practice, and Tigers 4-0 vs. spread following SU loss L2Ys. Lay it, pal.
(06-Aub. 34-MISS. ST. 0...A.20-11 A.36/111 M.33/79 A.22/32/0/277 M.12/25/1/82 A.2 M.2)
(06-Auburn -21 34-0 05-AUBURN -15 28-0 04-Auburn -13' 43-14...SR: Auburn 56-22-2)
PURDUE 43 - Central Michigan 17--CMU QB LeFevour and RB Sneed proved to be a potent duo in bounceback win against defensive-seive Toledo. However, situation will be very different as the Chips hit the road to face a very experienced Purdue defense. CMU yielded 308 YP & 52 points at Kansas in opener, and Boiler QB Painter has thrown 10 TD passes in first two games! (DNP...SR: Central Michigan 2-0)
Cincinnati 23 - MIAMI-OHIO 19--Miami-O. covered again in heartbreaking OT loss at Minny, rallying behind soph QB Raudabaugh's 222 YP in relief. However, the effort carried a heavy pricetag, as RedHawks best defensive player, LB Hudson, and arguably their best offensive player, RB Murphy, both finished the game on crutches due to knee injuries. Cincy outscored SE Missouri St. & Oregon St. by combined 93-6 tally, so wouldn't commit fully to Miami unless a little healthier.
(06-CINCY 24-Miami 10...M.15-12 C.42/253 M.25/36 M.21/48/2/190 C.5/11/1/43 C.2 M.1)
(06-CINCY -11' 24-10 05-MIAMI -10 44-16 04-CINCY +3' 45-26...SR: Miami-Ohio 59-45-7)
VIRGINIA TECH 36 - Ohio 10--Visit from MAC rep Ohio just what the doctor ordered for Tech's bruised psyche. Embarrassed Hokie defense will throttle limited Bobcat attack, and proud host has covered 5 of last 6 after a SU loss.
(05-VIRGINIA TECH -34 45-0...SR: Virginia Tech 3-0)
Iowa 23 - IOWA STATE 13--Talk about your ugly underdogs! ISU has lost at home to Kent State and Northern Iowa! But Cyclones are 8-1 vs. spread last 9 in this series, with sell-out crowd and throw-back uniforms ready for this one. Juco RB Bass (176 YR) helps sr. QB Meyer just enough to stay respectable vs. rising Hawkeyes and soph QB Christensen (4 TDP in 35-0 blanking of Syracuse).
(06-IOWA 27-Ia. St. 17...U.22-18 S.36/171 U.30/136 U.26/38/1/274 S.15/31/0/152 U.0 I.0)
(06-IOWA -13' 27-17 05-ISU +9' 23-3 04-IOWA -23 17-10...SR: Iowa 36-18)
KANSAS 51 - Toledo 23--Second annual "Battle of the Bulging Coaches." After 5-giveaway performance in LY's OT loss at Toledo, look for KU and new starting QB Reesing (6 TDP TY) to dismantle Rocket defense that has been pierced for 52 points in each of the team's first two games. All-Big XII CB Talib has a TD reception in each for KU. UT QB soph Opelt improving, but not the Rocket defense.
(06-TOLEDO 37-Kan. 31 (OT)...K.23-14 K.40/148 T.30/101 K.23/41/4/243 T.15/47/0/136 T.0 K.1)
(06-TOLEDO -4' 37-31 (OT) 04-KANSAS -3 63-14...SR: Kansas 2-1)
NORTHERN ILLINOIS 30 - Eastern Michigan 10--Embarrassing loss to Southern Illinois ensures that Joe Novak's Huskies will show up with fire in their bellies vs. EMU. Eagle offense has scored 1 TD in its last 4 games and ranks 114th in total offense in early going this season. Expect NIU QB Nicholson, whose 6 ints. in first two games matches last year's total for the season, to respond with huge game.
(06-N. Ill. 27-E. MICH. 0...N.29-7 N.45/240 E.24/45 N.24/37/3/261 E.10/18/0/67 N.1 E.1)
(06-Niu -7' 27-0 05-NIU -21 24-8 04-Niu -17' 34-16...SR: Northern Illinois 22-13-2)
WAKE FOREST 40 - Army 13--Defending ACC champ Wake desperate for win after 0-2 start. HC Grobe (former Air Force assistant) will try not to embarrass Army. But lightweight Black Knight def. front 7 overmatched against powerful Deacon ground game, while slowish Army DBs can't stay with Wake's speedy sr. WRs Moore & Marion.
(DNP...SR: Wake Forest 6-4)
FLORIDA 27 - Tennessee 24--Since UT's polished, accurate sr. QB Ainge has quickly developed rapport with emerging WRs l. Taylor & A. Rogers (both had 100+ receiving vs. Southern Miss), balanced Vol attack finds room to roam vs. young Florida defense that yielded 24 2nd-H points vs. Troy last week. And don't envision Tebow-led Florida attack erupting vs. well-coached UT defense that tackled & covered more effectively vs. Golden Eagles. Vols own the more formidable, deeper ground attack with RB Coker back & gifted frosh Creer (9 ypc vs. USM) contributing, so this SEC war is decided late. Fulmer 7-2 as an SEC dog since '04. TV--CBS
(06-Fla. 21-TENN. 20...F.22-13 F.41/121 T.23/M11 T.18/33/2/231 F.15/25/1/199 F.0 T.0)
(06-Fla. -3' 21-20 FLA. -6' 16-7 04-TENN. -3 30-28...SR: Tennessee 19-17)
MICHIGAN 24 - Notre Dame 20--How the mighty have fallen! Injury to Michigan QB Henne, coupled with "guaranteed win" by Wolverine RB Hart, makes us look at Notre Dame as the lesser of two evils in this game. Facing Oregon,Wolverines were unable to solve defensive issues which plagued them against Appalachian State. ND got a bit of an offensive lift from frosh QB Clausen, and he will find easier going vs. struggling Michigan.
(06-Mich. 47-N. DAME 21...M.17-14 M.41/120 N.17/4 N.25/49/3/241 M.13/22/1/220 M.0 N.2)
(06-Mich. +5 47-21 05-Und +7' 17-10 04-UND +12 28-20...SR: Michigan 19-14-1)
OKLAHOMA 54 - Utah State 3--Utah State "improving" (3 TDs on offense first two games; only 18 all of LY). However, OU is rampaging (65 ppg TY) behind RS frosh QB Sam Bradford (8 TDP). It's nice for a RS frosh QB to take over a team with an excellent OL, fine RBs, two NFL-caliber WRs (Kelly & Iglesias), speedy TE (Gresham), and to be backed by a havoc-wreaking defense (2 TDs so far)! (DNP...SR: Oklahoma 3-0)
OREGON 38 - Fresno State 17--In years past, we'd have been almost as excited about a chance to take Fresno plus big points as we would about a date with Beyonce'. And perhaps Pat Hill's Bulldogs are "back" after QB Brandstater finally displayed long-missing confidence at Texas A&M. But not interested in picking a spot where rampaging UO (44 ppg) slows down, especially with sr. QB Dixon (368 total yards at Michigan) on fire.
(06-Ore. 31-FRES. ST. 24...O.21-20 F.41/206 O.34/139 O.23/36/0/240 F.16/33/2/150 O.1 F.0)
(06-Oregon -3' 31-24 05-OREGON -2' 37-34...SR: Oregon 5-2)
MICHIGAN STATE 35 - Pittsburgh 17--MS HC Dantonio obviously has turned MSU in the right direction, as team seems rejuvenated behind RBs Ringer & Caulcrick (combined 154 ypg rushing) & a surprisingly tough defensive front (5th in country vs. the run). Pitt, conversely, has suffered some problematic injuries early, including losing QB Stull, WR Kinder and a couple of offensive line starters. Panthers move way up in class following home games vs. Eastern Michigan & Grambling.
(06-Mich. St. 38-PITT 23...M.24-22 M.48/335 P.20/81 P.28/47/2/277 M.16/25/1/198 M.1 P.1)
(06-Michigan State +2' 38-23...SR: Michigan State 5-0-1)
Ohio State 17 - WASHINGTON 16--Since it's apparently going to take a while for OSU to replace firepower of graduated Heisman winner Troy Smith & homerun WR/KR Ted Ginn Jr., not too interested in laying points with Buckeyes on road, especially vs. rejuvenated U-Dub. RS frosh QB Locker already doing a good Pat White imitation running Huskies' new West Virginia-like "O," and Ty Willingham's quick "D" can neutralize still-learning new OSU QB Boeckman. REGIONAL TV--ABC (DNP...SR: Ohio State 7-3)
Texas 29 - UCF 16--Ambitious UCF ambitiously christening its brand new Bright House Networks Stadium against a mighty foe in mighty Texas. Still, while host has likely bitten off more than it can chew, Knights probably do have enough rushing (jr. RB Kevin Smith 217 yards in opener) & defense to hold their own. Longhorn QB McCoy, who threw just 7 ints. LY, has been picked 4 times in first 2 games. TV--ESPN2 (FIRST MEETING)
CALIFORNIA 48 - Louisiana Tech 23--Cal's flash can be as distracting as Pamela Anderson, which (like Pam?) can make it easy to overlook Bears' recent deficiencies laying big points (1-10-1 last 12 laying DDs). And while La Tech's emotional reservoir might be on empty after OT loss vs. Hawaii, Bulldogs showing a bit more bite on "D" under new HC Dooley, while QB Champion effectively dinking away in new ball-control attack.
(DNP...SR: Louisiana Tech 1-0)
Ucla 26 - UTAH 10--Utah HC Whittingham making more adjustments than John McCain's presidential campaign, as shoulder injury to QB B. Johnson (likely out until October) forcing Utes to scuttle option elements of attack with less-mobile sr. Grady now at controls. And resultant power outage (Utes just 9.5 ppg first 2) a concern vs. quick-footed UCLA "D" that's licking its chops in anticipation of pressuring a slow-footed, 6-7 signal-caller in pocket. Karl Dorrell's Bruins (25-12-1 vs. line last 38) have emerged as spread force.
(06-UCLA 31-Utah 10...Uc.26-15 Ut.23/112 Uc.41/107 Uc.25/34/0/318 Ut.14/34/2/175 Uc.0 Ut.1)
(06-UCLA -3 31-10...SR: UCLA 8-0)
*NAVY 30 - Ball State 27--There's always a risk that Navy's option will distort time of possession and dominate proceedings, especially vs. a mid-level MAC opponent whose defense won't be confused with LSU's. But rebuilt Mid "D" (nine first-year starters) not mistaken for Pittsburgh's Steel Curtain of the past, which should give accomplished Ball State QB Davis a chance to keep Cards within earshot. (DNP...SR: Ball State 1-0)
*INDIANA 37 - Akron 16--Midwest observers extremely impressed with job Bill Lynch is doing with Indiana this season. Dynamic offense orchestrated by QB Kellen Lewis very effective for Hoosiers, but real surprise is the play of the defensive front seven, choking off the run and recording 13 sacks in first two games. Akron offense has been mostly ineffective (12 straight 3-and-outs at Ohio State), with new QB Jaquemain having trouble as revamped OL a main reason Zips are 116th in total offense. (FIRST MEETING)
*EAST CAROLINA 28 - Southern Miss 24--Early showdown between top contenders in C-USA's East Division. Significant rush edge to USM & electric soph RB Fletcher (1581 YR last 1+ seasons). But new ECU QB P. Pinkney (406 YP & 3 TDs last week) has been very impressive. Will he, a stout front 7, and rowdy home crowd at Dowdy-Ficklen be enough to get Pirates past stubborn Eagles?
(06-E. Car. 20-S. MISS 17 (OT)...E.20-9 E.41/102 S.28/101 E.20/33/2/197 S.13/20/1/79 E.0 S.0)
(06-Ecu +6 20-17 (OT) 05-Usm -7 33-7 04-USM -18' 51-10...SR: Southern Miss 24-8)
*MISSOURI 49 - Western Michigan 24--First home game for Mizzou and dynamic QB Daniel, who has 8 TDP first two games to 5 different receivers with no interceptions. There are still concerns about the Tiger defense, especially vs. Western WR Jamarko Simmons (28 recs. first 2 games!). However, Bronco defense (99 points so far) not stepping up well. MU stoppers have 7 takeaways first two. (DNP...SR: Missouri 1-0)
*WASHINGTON STATE 38 - Idaho 17--Familiarity factor between these neighbors has increased further now that ex-Wazzu d.c. Akey has moved across border to become Idaho HC. And Vandals getting some pleasant surprises in early going from poised RS frosh QB Enderle (0 ints. first 2 starts) & RS frosh RB D. Jackson. But need full value before backing rivalry dog now that Wazzu QB Brink (5 TDP vs. SDSU) finding groove.
(06-WASH. ST. 56-Idaho 10...W.25-17 W.43/344 I.32/83 W.18/24/0/293 I.14/36/1/220 W.1 I.1)
(06-WSU -17' 56-10 05-WSU -27' 38-26 04-WSU -25 49-8...SR: Wash. St. 69-16-3)
*Houston 42 - TULANE 23--New Green Wave HC Bob Toledo is a creative offensive tactician, but Tulane's defense looks like it's going to be a problem (again). Houston's scorching sr. RB Alridge (959 YR on 10 ypc LY!), who had 205 YR and an 86-yard TDC in opener at Oregon, will run wild on fast Superdome track.
(06-HOU. 45-Tulane 7...H.26-8 H.35/244 T.23/55 H.27/45/1/377 T.16/29/1/169 H.1 T.1)
(06-HOU. -14 45-7 05-Hou. -2 35-14 at Laf. 04-HOU. -9' 24-3...SR: Houston 8-4)
*KENTUCKY 42 - Louisville 41--In what figures to be an offensive shoot-out between these two heated rivals, take any available points with confident Kentucky, primed to snap 4-game series losing streak. Wildcats marvelous, mistake-free QB Woodson (no ints. last 206 attempts!) and a more potent ground assault (554 YR so far; only 22 YR vs. L'ville LY) will do lots of business vs. reeling Card defense that permitted a whopping 555 yds. in 58-42 win vs. Middle Tennessee St. And while Cards prolific QB Brohm will do his thing, L'ville a little undisciplined on both sides of ball (19 penalties so far!) under new HC Kragthorpe.
(06-LVL. 59-Ky. 27...L.31-8 L.55/363 K.19/22 L.20/32/0/268 K.10/26/0/238 L.1 K.1)
(06-LVL. -22' 59-27 05-Lvl. -22 31-24 04-LVL. -9' 28-0...SR: Kentucky 10-9)
*ALABAMA 27 - Arkansas 16--Since mastermind HC Saban immediately working his magic at Bama (his halftime "talk" spurred RB Grant vs. Vandy), strongly support hosts itchin' to avenge LY's painful 24-23 OT at Arkansas (Tide missed 3 FGs, plus a PAT in OT!). Defense-reading QB J. P. Wilson (16 of 20 in LY's meeting) more refined than Hog counterpart Dick, who might still be missing top WR Monk (check status). Doubt Arkansas' Heisman candidate McFadden helps his case much vs. fast, re-energized, athletic Alabama "D" (no meaningful TDs allowed so far) well-prepared strategically under defensive guru Saban. CABLE TV--ESPN
(06-ARK. 24-Ala. 23 (OT)...Al.20-15 Ar.31/172 Al.52/118 Al.16/20/0/243 Ar.7/22/3/97 Ar.0 Al.1)
(06-ARK. -2' 24-23 (OT) 05-ALA. -15' 24-13 04-ARK. -5 27-10...SR: Alabama 21-15)
*Boston College 30 - GEORGIA TECH 27--Certainly can't knock Tech based on its first 2 games. Ramblin' Wreck defense wrecked Notre Dame's offense in opener, and starters got plenty of rest during last week's home romp over Samford. Still, not a bad matchup for BC. Star sr. QB Ryan's quick release will defuse host's frequent blitzes. And opportunistic Eagle defense (9 ints. in first 2 games!) might force less-experienced Tech triggerman Bennett into a few mistakes. REGIONAL TV--ABC
(DNP...SR: Georgia Tech 4-1)
*NORTHWESTERN 35 - Duke 14--Northwestern fortunate to survive against Nevada, but the 2nd-half rally in that game leaves the Wildcats 2-0 SU. NU QB Bacher hasn't thrown an interception, and Wildcat backup RB Brandon Roberson filled the void well when Tyrell Sutton was injured last week (ankle; check status). Duke, losers of 21 straight games, owns few dangerous offensive weapons to trade points with hi-octane Northwestern. (DNP...SR: EVEN 7-7)
*Texas Tech 48 - RICE 17--If Baylor QB Szymanski (412 YP, school-record 6 TDP!) was able to destroy the Rice defense, it's scary to think what TT's superb triggerman Harrell will do vs. old SWC rival that's not smoothly adjusting to rookie HC Bailiff. Owl QB Clement (4 ints. so far) unable to keep pace with explosive Red Raider spread, featuring highly-touted RS frosh 6-4 WR Crabtree (27 catches & 4 TDs so far!) and plethora of other speedy wide-outs. (DNP...SR: Texas Tech 25-20-1)
*Southern Cal 23 - NEBRASKA 17--Pete Carroll says he loves having a bye after his opener to heal, adjust, teach and prepare (USC held out several key players vs. Idaho). So look for an intense Trojan performance at Lincoln, where the Nebraska offense will face much more resistance than it did vs. injured Nevada and out-manned Wake Forest. Still, USC working in several key newcomers, and Trojan big gainers less frequent in post-Bush era. REGIONAL TV--ABC
(06-S. CAL 28-Neb. 10...S.26-10 S.31/142 N.36/68 S.25/37/0/257 N.9/17/0/143 S.0 N.1)
(06-SOUTHERN CAL -17' 28-10...SR: Southern Cal 2-0-1)
*Utep 31 - NEW MEXICO STATE 27--Must take price with an improved UTEP squad that now owns a credible ground attack to take pressure off developing QB Vittatoe (202 YP vs. Texas Tech). NMS 3rd-year HC Mumme still has a "mummy-like" defense (allowed 497 yds. & 44 pts. vs. New Mexico), and Aggies haven't beaten a major team outside the Sun Belt since 2002. By the way, UTEP limited Lobos to just 2 FGs on Sept. 1.
(06-UTEP 44-N. Mex. St. 38...N.33-20 U.27/123 N.23/67 N.48/73/1/506 U.18/26/2/414 U.1 N.1).
(06-UTEP -16' 44-38 05-Utep -9' 34-17 04-UTEP -7' 45-0...SR: UTEP 49-33-2)
*BOISE STATE 23 - Wyoming 17--Usually reluctant to pick a spot where Boise falls on blue carpet (Broncos 37-1 SU last 38 as host!). But last week's loss at Washington a reminder that revamped Bronco "O" and new QB Tharp still working out the kinks, and remember, Joe Glenn's Wyo "D" held LY's omnipotent Boise team to its lowest output (17 pts. & 246 yards) of '06. Cowboy "O" well-balanced (411 YR, 433 YP) thus far.
(06-Boise St. 17-WYO. 10...B.17-15 B.41/130 W.29/73 W.14/30/2/178 B.12/21/0/116 B.0 W.0)
(06-Boise State -7' 17-10...SR: Boise State 3-0)
*TULSA 27 - Byu 24--Defensive edge to visiting Cougars, who allowed only 142 YR in first 2 games. Still, with extra week to prepare, smart Tulsa sr. QB Paul Smith should find enough holes in BYU 2ndary to avenge LY's bitter defeat at Provo. Golden Hurricane offense got major contributions from touted true frosh FB/TE Clay & WR Whitmore in opening win at La.-Monroe.
(06-BYU 49-Tulsa 24...B.22-18 B.42/227 T.31/82 B.16/23/0/240 T.21/35/1/221 B.0 T.0)
(06-BYU -4' 49-24...SR: BYU 6-0)
*Hawaii 41 - UNLV 20--Were the preseason projections for these two off base? Perhaps so, at least based on last week. But UH now sufficiently warned about potential upgrades at UNLV after Rebs pushed Wisconsin, and we're going to assume that Warriors' narrow escape at La Tech will serve as wake-up call. Still a lot to ask of UNLV RS frosh QB T. Dixon to trade points with June Jones' Red Gun & Colt Brennan (already 10 TDP).
(06-HAWAII 42-Unlv 13...H.30-18 H.31/214 U.28/39 H.33/45/2/369 U.18/47/1/232 H.2 U.0)
(06-HAWAII -12' 42-13...SR: Hawaii 11-6)
*Florida State 24 - COLORADO 23--Although QB Weatherford did lead Florida State back from half-time deficit against lowly UAB last week at Tallahassee, revamped Seminole offense far from a finished product. And vaunted FSU defense has looked surprisingly vulnerable thus far. Visitor fortunate to escape with SU win against competent Colorado & clever HC Hawkins. TV-ESPN
(DNP...SR: Florida State 1-0)
*ARIZONA STATE 48 - San Diego State 13--Well, it didn't take ASU long to pick up some of the notorious bad habits associated with past Dennis Erickson teams (Sun Devils 12 penalties, including 7 personal fouls, last week vs. Colorado). But imagine what damage a confidence-restored ASU QB Carpenter can do vs. invisible SDSU "D" that made Wazzu QB Alex Brink (5 TDP) look like Dan Marino in Aztecs' embarrassing opener! (DNP...SR: Arizona State 9-0-1)
*ARIZONA 25 - New Mexico 22--Arizona's new Texas Tech-style spread started to get the hang of things last week vs. Northern Arizona (QB Tuitama 5 TDP vs. Lumberjacks), but we need a bit more evidence than domination of a lower-division foe before jumping on Wildcat bandwagon. Rocky Long's unorthodox UNM 3-3-5 "D" has lots of experience vs. "video football" attacks, and Lobo soph QB Porterie (342 YP vs. NMSU) developing confidence of his own.
(DNP...SR: Arizona 43-18-3)
*STANFORD 27 - San Jose State 23--It's difficult to recommend Stanford squad that's lost 14 of its last 15 and has yet to experience the heady nectar of victory in its rebuilt stadium (Cardinal 0-6 in new digs). But be advised SJSU is badly beaten up after pair of lopsided road losses, and HC Dick Tomey can be excused for placing an emergency call to FEMA after top offensive threats QB Tafralis & RB J. Davis already KO'd.
(06-SJS 35-Stan. 34...Sj.25-23 Sj.49/342 St.43/185 St.18/28/1/233 Sj.15/17/1/115 Sj.1 St.2)
(06-SJS +10 35-34 04-STANFORD -17' 43-3...SR: Stanford 46-14-1)
ADDED GAMES
MIAMI-FLORIDA 45 - Florida Intl. 3--Both teams on guard against repeat of LY's bravado-fueled brawl, although Miami also looking to rebuild its bad-ass image after getting spanked at OU. New HCs Shannon & Cristobal played for Hurricanes at different times, but spent last few seasons together on Miami coaching staff! CABLE TV--ESPNU
(06-MIAMI 35-Fla. Intl. 0...M.16-12 M.29/90 F.31/28 M.17/26/0/189 F.12/25/2/86 M.1 F.1)
(06-MIAMI-FLORIDA -26' 35-0...SR: Miami-Florida 1-0)
*TEXAS A&M 38 - La.-Monroe 7--Even with potentially distracting visit to Miami-Florida next Thursday, still prefer to lay the lumber with A&M following harrowing 47-45 OT win vs. Fresno State (Aggies led 19-0 at H). A&M's punishing ground attack eventually wears down thin ULM front 7. And doubt Warhawks spread option finds much daylight vs. Aggie "D" that regularly faces a vastly-superior version of it daily in practice. ULM, which got "back-door" cover at Clemson (trailed 49-13 in 4th), has it shut closed in College Station.
(FIRST MEETING)
*ARKANSAS STATE 34 - Smu 28--Sure, ASU was overmatched at Dallas LY. But good chance scrappy Indians able to avenge that humiliation back in Jonesboro TY. Resourceful soph QB Leonard will do plenty of damage against speed-shy SMU defense that's permitted 1074 YP (!) in first 2 games.
(06-SMU 55-Ark. St. 9...S.20-14 S.31/226 A.41/69 S.17/28/1/231 A.13/28/1/193 S.1 A.4)
(06-SMU -6' 55-9...SR: SMU 1-0)
*Minnesota 29 - FLORIDA ATLANTIC 23--Acknowledge FAU's well-documented shortcomings vs. non-Sun Belt foes (no covers last 8--7 of those on road), but Owls finally get one of those opponents in south Florida. And though Minnesota RS frosh QB Weber starting to get more comfy running new spread, Gopher "D" has been springing leaks fore and aft vs. modest MAC opposition thus far. (at Dolphin Stadium) (05-MINNESOTA -32 46-7...SR: Minnesota 1-0)
*LSU 49 - Middle Tennessee State 3--Middle's surprising 42-point outburst vs. L'Ville only serves to forewarn a menacing LSU defense that arguably has more NFL prospects than any unit east of Los Angeles. Tigers poised, highly-mobile QB Flynn (297 YR, 301 YP vs. Virginia Tech) taking full advantage of his loaded supporting cast, while hungry backup pilot Perrrilloux (5 for 5 & 2 TDP vs. Hokies) helps extend margin late in this blowout in Baton Rouge.
(DNP...SR: LSU 1-0)
COLLEGE KEY RELEASES
AUBURN by 24 over Mississippi State
MICHIGAN STATE by 18 over Pittsburgh
BOSTON COLLEGE by 3 over Georgia Tech
UTEP by 4 over New Mexico State
