College Football: Week 13

Brandon and I were even last week. Both went 14-4. He was 0-2 on upset picks and I was 0-3. Overall standings are as follows: Brandon 196-46 (7-14) with me at 185-57 (7-22). I'm giving away co helmet stickers this week. They go to the running back tandem at Wisconsin of James White and Montee Ball. White ran the ball 23 times for 181 yards and 2 touchdowns. Ball ran it 29 times for 173 yards and 4 touchdowns as the Badgers rolled all over Michigan in the Big House. Looks like they may come out on top of the Big Ten and off to the Rose Bowl. Brandon's helmet sticker goes to Knile Davis, the running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks. He ran the ball 30 times for 187 yards and 2 touchdowns as the Hogs beat Mississippi State in overtime.

This week we have many rivalries. Naturally the Iron Bowl between Alabama and Auburn gets our game of the week honors and what a beauty it shall be. However, there are still several others with a lot of drama and other implications involved. Should be a dandy of a weekend and it starts ... on Thanksgiving day.

Thursday November 25th 2010

Garrett Gilbert hopes to
lead the Longhorn to a
bowl game.

#17 Texas A&M Aggies 8-3 (5-2) @ Texas Longhorns 5-6 (2-5) 8 PM ET

Something just doesn't sound right when you put Texas Longhorn football and losing season into the same sentence. Longhorn fans have a few things to look forward to here. Upsetting the rival Aggies AND becoming bowl eligible. Their only conference wins this year have both been on the road in Lubbock and Lincoln (explain that one to me please). The problem, Garrett Gilbert has 15 INT's this season. If they can avoid that, I believe they can pull this one off. Since A&M made the QB change from Jarrod Johnson to Ryan Tannehill, it seems their problems have vanished. Tannehill's completion percentage is 12% higher than Johnson's. However, this being rivalry week, anything can happen. I'm going with the Longhorns. It's their last game with a bowl game on the line at home against a bitter in-state rival. They'll definitely have the fans in an uproar. The faithful will show up and be the 12th man. UT 26 TAMU 24. Brandon: TAMU 24 UT 20

Friday November 26th 2010


GAME OF THE WEEK
#2 Auburn Tigers 11-0 (7-0) @ #11 Alabama Crimson Tide 9-2 (5-2) 2:30 PM ET

I'm actually not quite sure how the Tide is favored in this one. Doesn't make sense to me. There is a lot on the line here. It's at BAMA, the fans will be ridiculous, especially when Cam Newton is on the field. Having said all of that, I like Auburn. Sorry Boise and TCU fans. I'm just not sure anyone can stop Newton. The Tide may shut him down on a few drives and this game could go down to the wire, but I like the Tigers. Bronco and Frog fans last hope is the Gamecocks. UA 24 BAMA 20. Brandon: Bama 27 UA 24

#15 Nebraska Cornhuskers 9-2 (5-2) vs Colorado Buffaloes 5-6 (2-5) 3:30 PM ET

I really don't know why anyone would pick the Buffs. Oh except for Missouri who would be atop the Big XII North standings with an NU loss. Even with all this drama with Bo Pelini, I don't see any reason for the Huskers to have a let down. This one won't be close. NU 37 CU 17. Brandon: NU 24 CU 10

#1 Oregon Ducks 10-0 (7-0) @ #21 Arizona Wildcats 7-3 (4-3) 7 PM ET

Alright, the Pac-10's rivalry week is next week, but this game still has BCS implications and should be a thriller. Zona fans will be going nuts and try to become the 12th man and hope for a huge victory for the Cats. Doubt it. The Ducks are just too powerful and will see their way to the the National Title. The video game offense rolls on. Oregon 31 Zona 23. Brandon: Ore. 42 Zona 28

Can Kellen Moore lead BSU
to another BCS game?

#4 Boise State Broncos 10-0 (6-0) @ #19 Nevada Wolfpack 10-1 (5-1) 10:30 PM ET

Here we go. The dandy in Reno. This game is also great for both teams BCS and Heisman resumes. Colin Kaepernick and Kellen Moore are probably the most intriguing quarterback match up of the week as they close out Friday night. Moore is a Heisman finalist so all Kaepernick can do is make a case for why he should have been there. With both QB's being highly talented and dangerous, this all comes down to talent and clearly, the Broncos have more. I'm not calling a blowout, but I am calling a comfortable win for the Broncos. It'll be close but I see them pulling away with the win late in the game. Can they finally get to the title? It all relies on South Carolina and the voters to put them up there. BSU 36 UNR 24. Brandon: BSU 48 UNR 28.

Saturday November 27th 2010


#8 Ohio State 10-1 (6-1) vs Michigan Wolverines 7-4 (3-4) 12 PM ET

How dare I disrespect the Buckeyes last week. They shut me up with their win over Iowa and remain in a three way tie atop the Big Ten standings. Michigan got ran all over against Nebraska last week and I don't see why OSU should be any different. Denard Robinson's future at Michigan is very bright ... but he's still young. Give them a couple years, but they lose this one. TerrelleOSU just has more talent and experience. The Big Ten remains a tight race for 1st. OSU 30 Mich 24. Brandon: OSU 31 Mich 23

#10 Michigan State Spartans 10-1 (6-1) @ Penn State Nittany Lions 7-4 (4-3) 12 PM ET

This one is easy. PSU had the highlight of their season with JoePa's 400th win as head coach which is insane. The dude is 83 and still chugging along. Good grief. I don't believe they'll be able to have what it takes to knock MSU out of the race for the Big Ten title. Kirk Cousins is going to be a great NFL quarterback. He will lead this team past their bitter arch rival in Penn State comfortably. MSU 27 PSU 13. Brandon: MSU 34 PSU 24

#16 Virignia Tech Hokies 9-2  (7-0) vs Virginia Cavaliers 4-7 (1-6) 12 PM ET

I can't really remember the last time the Cavaliers were a good team. Not really sure if I see them making this game competitive at all. The Hokies are too powerful and continue to prove to everyone that the James Madison loss was a fluke. This one will help them as they get their tenth straight win and head to the ACC title game led by Tyrod Taylor and Ryan Williams. This rushing attack is dangerous and explosive and I'm just gonna go ahead and predict a victory next week as well. Uh oh. I did just say that. VT 34 UVA 16. Brandon: VT 20 UVA 16

#14 Missouri Tigers 9-2 (5-2) @ Kansas Jayhawks 3-8 (1-6) 12:30 PM ET

Ah a battle of the border. What a beauty it wi ... oh yeah Kansas is terrible. This will be a blowout. Blaine Gabbert could have the best offensive performance of his career. The Jayhawks have nothing to stop him nor do they have anything on their own offense to make this a game. The Tigers are hoping Nebraska gets upset by Colorado this weekend so they can punch their ticket to the Big XII title game. That's out of their hands, all they can do is win this game, and that they will. Very comfortably. Mizzou 48 KU 23. Brandon: Mizzou 38 KU 17

Beating LSU may be all Ryan Mallett
and Arkansas has to do to reach a
BCS game this season.

#5 LSU Tigers 10-1 (6-1) @ #12 Arkansas Razorbacks 9-2 (5-2) 3:30 PM ET

LSU fans would rooting for Alabama this weekend as well as their Tigers, but the SEC title game is already scheduled between UA and the Gamecocks. So this game pretty much only has the rivalry implications and bragging rights. Oh and don't forget about the BCS. Both squads are high enough in the standings that they could make a trip this year. So plan on a beautiful College Football atmosphere going on here. Ryan Mallett will definitely have to be on his A game. Les Miles Tiger defense knows how good he his. For this game, I'm going with the home field advantage. I know I've swung and missed on picking LSU to lose this year, but I'm going that rout again. I like Mallett's chances of showing the NFL scouts what he can do in big games. The Razorbacks will make their way into the top ten with this victory and hello Orange bowl. Ark. 26 LSU 21. Brandon: Ark 31 LSU 27

#7 Wisconsin Badgers 10-1 (6-1) vs Northwestern Wildcats 7-4 (3-4) 3:30 PM ET

Wisconsin ran all over the Michigan Wolverines last week. (See my helmet sticker award above.) Northwestern got destroyed by their rival Illinois at Wrigley Field last weekend. I like NW's win over the Iowa Hawkeyes, but I don't see it happening here against the Badgers. Scott Tolzein is just one of several high play makers on this offense. They have all the capabilities of running away with this one. Could be a blow out, but I don't see that. I like them to win but NW has shown some promise this season. Dan Persa is an exceptional quarterback. Look for him to make some plays and keep this one relatively close. Wisconsin 34 Northwestern 26. Brandon: Wisc 44 NW 20

Can Jake Heaps lead BYU to a victory over arch rival Utah
as a true freshman?

#20 Utah Utes 9-2 (6-1) vs BYU Cougars 6-5 (5-2) 3:30 PM ET

This is the last time these two schools meet on the last game of the season, and being in the same conference. The winner takes second place in the Mountain West. Earlier this season, say five weeks ago, this game looked as if it was going to be a blowout. Utah was making a strong push for another BCS appearance and BYU was staring their worst season in history in the face. Since then, the Utes have been exposed with two embarrassing losses and two close wins in the last two games one of those being by sheer luck. (I say luck due to the hailmary against SDSU ... those are always lucky.) This game will be all about who can shut who's running game down. Both teams have two young quarterbacks and the running game defines the offense. The difference to me is going to be momentum. The Utes are still trying to recover from their two bad losses to TCU and Notre Dame and BYU is just rolling along scoring a lot of points. Prepare for another Holy War thriller, as they usually are. Also prepare for a lot of hatred between the fans and a lot of energy on the field. I like Jake Heaps over Jordan Wynn in this one. I also like BYU's trio at RB rather than Utah's tandem at RB. BYU takes a close one. BYU 27 Utah 24. Brandon: Utah 30 BYU 23

#22 Florida State 8-3 (6-2) vs Florida Gators 7-4 (4-4) 3:30 PM ET

It's been a long time since this game saw the Seminoles ranked and not the Gators. It's a good thing we didn't predict the FLA/App. St. game last week. I would have picked ASU. They are better than I thought they were and their bitter rival showing up in the swamp could be enough to pull the upset. Look for a hostile environment. I do like this one to be close and it will come down to which team makes one more big play than the other. I don't like Christian Ponder. I think he's just been hype. It's the talent he's surrounded by that's put FSU on the map this season. He's overrated. I like the Gators in a low scoring game. Jeff Demps will be the one who gets the big play to seal this one. FLA 17 FSU 13. Brandon: FSU 28 FLA 24

#23 North Carolina State Wolfpack 8-3 (5-2) @ Maryland Terrapins 7-4 (4-3) 3:30 PM ET

Again, another big game with conference title game implications here. If NCSU wins, they face Virginia Tech in the ACC title. Maryland is the only team left to stop that from happening. The Wolfpack controls their own destiny. This could be the most entertaining game of the day. Danny O'Brien and UMD's running game is very, very dangerous. They have enough weapons to mix things up and score a lot of points. NCSU has a dangerous attack of their own. Russell Wilson is 23 yards short of 3000 passing yards on the year and he has a trio of running backs as a safety valve. I like NCSU's talent better than UMD's, but it will be a close game because of the home field advantage for the Terps. But no victory. Sorry. NCSU 31 UMD 26. Brandon: NCSU 34 UMD 28

#24 Iowa Hawkeyes 7-4 (4-3) @ Minnesota Golden Gophers 2-9 (1-6) 3:30 PM ET

Hmmmm. Yeah this game isn't going to be tough to predict at all. I guess Adam Weber could be an NFL quarterback. That's about all the Gophers have going for them. They lose big. Iowa 45 Minny 13. Brandon: Iowa 38 Minny 17

#3 TCU Horned Frogs 11-0 (7-0) @ New Mexico Lobos 1-10 (1-6) 4 PM ET

This game could very well most likely be the biggest blowout of the week. Regardless, I believe Boise State jumps TCU in the polls. UNM doesn't help anybody by being on their schedule. Maybe the Sun Belt. MAYBE. TCU 51 UNM 6. Brandon: TCU 48 UNM 0

#18 South Carolina Gamecocks 8-3 (5-3) @ Clemson Tigers 6-5 (4-4) 7 PM ET

Carolina is probably the most surprising team in college football this season. Such a great story for Steve Spurrier and his freshman phenom running back. How will he handle the atmosphere in a rival game? We don't know, but that's why there are people like me out there to make predictions. Clemson is a decent team. I like this one to go down to the wire and potentially have an overtime or two. But in the end, I'm going with the Cocks. Next week baby. The SEC showdown. Can they upset the Tigers? We will see one week from now. SC 34 Clemson 31. Brandon: SC 32 Clem. 30

Jeremiah Masoli has been the
top play-maker for the Rebels
this season.

#25 Mississippi State Bulldogs 7-4 (3-4) @ Mississippi Rebels 4-7 (1-6) 7 PM ET

Mississippi State could be another team considered for the biggest surprise this season. Chris Relf is doing a great job leading this offense. Ole Miss on the other hand, won't be going to a bowl, have only one win in the conference, and that surprises me because I believe Jeremiah Masoli is a huge playmaker. Perhaps he's all they have this year though. That loss to Jacksonville State early in the year definitely set the tone for the remainder of the season. Their non conference wins are against Sun Belt, C-USA, WAC teams and their lone conference loss is over Kentucky. That should be enough to tell who I'd be picking, but not so fast. I'm going with the Rebels here. This will be a solid game. A true unpredictable rivalry. Rebels take it in the end. Ole Miss 20 MSU 17. Brandon: MSU 30 Ole Miss 23

#6 Stanford Cardinal 10-1 (7-1) vs Oregon State Beavers 5-5 (4-3) 7:30 PM ET

The Beavers are just having a disappointing season. Injuries have plagued them as well as close losses to good teams. They have two games left to become bowl eligible. They need one win. that win will not be coming this weekend as they travel to Palo Alto. They have no answer for Andrew Luck. Stanford 38 OSU 21. Brandon: Stan. 37 OSU 30

#9 Oklahoma State Cowboys 10-1 (6-1) vs #13 Oklahoma Sooners 9-2 (5-2) 8 PM ET

Wow. Who remembers the last time both of these teams were ranked in the top 15? This game could will be (yes I'm going to say it again) a thriller. I like the balance of both schools and they are evenly matched on both sides of the ball. This was a tough game for me to pick but I'm going with the Cowboys. Brandon Weeden has a bit more of the upper hand than Landry Jones and I'd trust him to win for my team at the end over Jones. Not taking anything away from Landry, Weeden is just better. OSU 27 OU 24. Brandon: OSU 36 OU 32

Lane Kiffin's Trojans will
be ready for the Irish.

NON TOP 25 GAME
USC Trojans 7-4 (4-4) vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish 6-5 8 PM ET

Stop the presses. Notre Dame is bowl eligible. Just kidding. For a season that's had many ups and downs, a bowl game is a great accomplishment for this Irish squad. This is the Trojans last game of the season due to the sanctions from the NCAA. The Irish may be going to the Las Vegas Bowl. That's an odd one but could be intriguing if Utah ends up going. Very interesting. I like the Trojans here. Matt Barkley and company aren't only at home, but they're more talented than Brian Kelly's Irish right now. Kelly sure does have the school on the rise, but give them a couple years to get things going before they're an elite again. USC wins this one. USC 28 ND 17. Brandon: USC 31 ND 21

College Football: Week 12

Let me just start off with last weeks Nevada/Fresno St. game. If Fresno was able to kick a field goal at the end, I would have predicted that game perfectly. Gosh I want that one back so bad. It stings. I was making a good comeback on Brandon but I only ended up beating him by one this week. He was 16-5 (0-1) and I finished 17-4 (3-1). My best upset week and I still gain almost no ground on Brandon. Goodness. The unanimous helmet sticker this week goes to Marcus Lattimore the freshman phenom from South Carolina. Marcus ran the ball 40 times on the Florida D, gaining 212 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 31 yards. Oh yeah and they were playing in the swamp. SC punched their ticket to the SEC title game with the win. Could they possibly beat Auburn? Wouldn't that be amazing?

We have two intriguing ACC match ups this week. NCSU and UNC get the NT25 pick because of the ACC title implications. It goes hand in hand with the FSU and UMD game. So keep your eye out for those game breakdowns and what the possibilities are. Also, I'd like to point out a NT25 honorable mention of Florida and Appalachian State. The only reason I'm giving it the honorable mention is because I believe ASU will get the upset. With that said, that game isn't an official pick this week. Also, the Big Ten title hunt is intriguing as well so Ohio State and Iowa get the GOW and deservedly so. Don't forget to check out Brandon's blog at http://thebiznizfiles.blogspot.com/. Alright on with the picks.

Thursday November 18th 2010

#11 Alabama Crimson Tide 8-2 (5-2) vs Georgia State Panthers 6-4 7:30 PM ET

What do Georgia State and another team in the SEC have in common and who is that team? (Drum Roll) Why, it's Ole Miss. Both the Panthers and Rebels lost to Jacksonville State in overtime this season. And after this week they'll both have lost to the Tide. Alabama, as mandated by the SEC (or so it seems) plays their one D-IAA school of the season. So basically they have another bye before the Iron Bowl next week. Time to oil out any rust and work out any kinks before Cam Newton comes to town. Bama 56 GSU 3. Brandon: Bama 55 GSU 10. 

Friday November 19th 2010

#4 Boise State Broncos 9-0 (5-0) vs Fresno State Bulldogs 6-3 (4-2) 9:30 PM ET

If Fresno could have pulled off the upset over Nevada last week I would probably give them a bit of a motivation factor coming on to the smurf turf this week. The Bulldogs are a good team. They always seem to have 7-9 wins a season with a couple close losses to AQ schools. I like them to put together a few solid drives and perhaps make a game out of this. But I still see Boise State getting the victory by at most seventeen points. They have three games left including this one, but making it to the BCS title game isn't really in their hands. Just keep winning Mr. Peterson. And that he will. BSU 38 FSU 21. Brandon: BSU 48 FSU 34.

Saturday November 20th 2010


Scott Tolzein has the
Rose Bowl in his foresight

 #7 Wisconsin Badgers 9-1 (5-1) @ Michigan Wolverines 7-3 (3-3) 12 PM ET

Not sure I can remember the last time a football team at any level put up 83 points. That was impressive, even if it was Indiana they were playing. I'm sure that one was fun for the Badger fans and I'm also sure that if any Badger fan attended that game not knowing the school fight song, they do now singing it thirteen times. Michigan had a rough time putting Purdue away last week. It seems like they got caught up in the Denard Robinson hype early on in the season and can't quite find their swagger again. Three straight conference losses and going down to the wire with two of the conferences worst. They'll need that swagger back for this week. But I'm not sure they get it all back. The Badgers are led by Scott Tolzien and Jonathan Clay and I have no reason to suspect they have a let down game when there's a potential trip to the Rose Bowl on the line. I like the Badgers here. Wisc. 34 Mich 23. Brandon:  Wisc. 32 Mich. 24.

#10 Oklahoma State Cowboys 9-1 (5-1) @ Kansas Jayhawks 3-7 (1-5) 12 PM ET

Although Kansas is flat out terrible, they only lost to Nebraska by seventeen last week. Their defense held NU to twenty points. Oh but their offense scored three. Yeah, they suck. They saved the best of the conference for the end of their schedule. And they will end the season 3-9. OSU gets a huge victory here. They host the Big XII South championship when the Sooners come to Stillwater next week (If OU doesn't lose on the road @ Baylor). OSU 48 KU 10. Brandon: OSU 56 KU 17.

#12 Michigan State Spartans 9-1 (5-1) vs Purdue Boilermakers 4-6 (2-4) 12 PM ET

Michigan State finds themselves at the bottom of the three way tie in the Big Ten since the BCS standings is the tie breaker. They need style points in their last two games against Purdue and Penn State if they want to jump past Wisconsin. I say style points because the Boilermakers aren't very good and everyone is guaranteeing a victory for Sparty. Yeah I'm not showing this one being close at all. Michigan State do very good. Pur-don't. MSU 38 Pur. 19. Brandon: MSU 35 Purdue 19.


Russell Wilson is poised
enough to lead the
Wolfpack to the ACC title.



NON TOP-25 GAME

North Carolina State Wolfpack 7-3 (4-2) @ North Carolina Tar Heels 6-4 (3-3) 12 PM ET

Huge ACC title game possibilities in this game as I state later on in my Florida State/Maryland pick. The Wolfpack will be rooting for the Terps to win that game. They play them next week too. Very dramatic two weeks in the ACC Atlantic division. If the Heels pull the upset here than NCSU will be tied with the loser of the FSU UMD game. That's why they are rooting for the Terps to win this week so that game turns into the Coastal title game. If UNC and FSU win ... FSU plays VT for the title game. All season I've been hopeful to see the Tar Heels have a good season, but they've been just so anemic and unpredictable. The Wolfpack has a lot of options on offense. Both the running and passing game has bunches of talent. Thirteen players have caught at least four passes and eleven people have caught TD passes. Russell Wilson feels very comfortable taking the snaps. I think that talent level will be the difference against the Tar Heels. UNC has had too much drama this season it's just caused too many problems on the field. I think NCSU will want this one a bit more than they will. NCSU 34 UNC 26. Brandon: UNC 31 NCSU 28

#17 South Carolina Gamecocks 7-3 (5-3) vs Troy Trojans 5-4 (4-2) 12:21 PM ET

In week two of the season Troy hung around with Oklahoma State and lost 41-38. They lost to UAB by one the very next week. I swear every season I hear about Troy doing something on the national radar at least once. I'd say they're the most prestigious Sun Belt team. Okay, I've respected them enough ... you have to when they make it to the picks once a season. South Carolina is rolling right now. Their SEC games are over and they will be in the SEC title game against Auburn. Boise State fans are going to be Gamecock fans for a few weeks. Not sure if they're paying attention to this game though. Who knows, anything can happen. SC 44 Troy 14. Brandon: SC 38 Troy 18.

#5 LSU Tigers 9-1 (5-1) vs Mississippi Rebels 4-6 (1-5) 3:30 PM ET

What can the Mad Hatter do when the SEC title game has already been decided?  Even if Auburn loses to Bama next week (on a Friday ... weird) it's still Tigers and Gamecocks for the title. Yeah, tough to coach a team when you have neither conference title nor national title to preach to them. Oh well. Regardless, this game won't be close. The Rebels have proven they can't compete in the conference this season. LSU 31 Ole Miss 17. Brandon: LSU 35 Ole Miss 20.

#6 Stanford Cardinal 9-1 (6-1) @ California Golden Bears 5-5 (3-4) 3:30 PM ET

I'd like to say this will be a blowout but I'm not sure if Cal's near upset over Oregon was a fluke or not. However, the Ducks are the Pac-10 champs anyway. That was decided weeks ago and I'm stickin to it. Anyway, with that out of Stanford's control you know coach Harbaugh is still plugging that in the locker room. Either way, It's BCS title game or Rose Bowl. That's still something to play for. I'm calling fluke last week for Cal. Stanford wins comfortably. Stan. 28 Cal 13. Brandon: Stan. 23 Cal 21.



With the Rose Bowl now out of sight, Adam Robinson
and the Hawkeyes can still make things interesting in the
Big Ten standings.



GAME OF THE WEEK

#9 Ohio State Buckeyes 9-1 (5-1) @ #20 Iowa Hawkeyes 7-3 (4-2) 3:30 PM ET

The Big Ten is very interesting right now. Three teams tied for first and all Iowa can do is make that two teams by beating Ohio State this week. They can hope MSU and Wisconsin fall so they can have a shot for the Rose Bowl, but I'm not sure that happens. With that said, I don't think they just roll over in this one. I do think the NW loss was a fluke. (I picked that one by the way). College football is just so unpredictable sometimes and that's why I'm calling upset here. I know OSU has Terrelle Pryor, but the Hawkeyes are looking to bounce back from last week, they're at home and Ricky Stanzi is a great quarterback. I'm not saying they're going to shut down Pryor, but I do like Iowa in a close game. The Buckeyes have more to lose and Iowa knows that. They will jump off of their backs and punch the big guy right in the mouth. Iowa 31 OSU 27. Brandon: OSU 26 Iowa 21.

#16 Virginia Tech Hokies 8-2 (6-0) @ #24 Miami (FL) Hurricanes 7-3 (5-2) 3:30 PM ET

Miami has been jumping in and out of the bottom of the Top 25 all season long. Virginia Tech is on an eight game win streak and a win this week punches their ticket to the ACC title game. The 'Canes may try to get the crowd into it, but I don't see that being an advantage. No one in this conference is stopping the Hokies. The loss to JMU was a major, major fluke. VT is the reason Boise has jumped TCU. The Hokies will play for the ACC title. VT 27 The U 16. Brandon: VT 31 Miami 23.

#18 Nevada Wolfpack 9-1 (4-1) vs New Mexico State Aggies 2-8 (1-5) 4:05 PM ET

The Wolfpack almost suffered their second loss of the season last week on the road to Fresno State. Only one more game til they host Boise State ... the game they've wanted all year. I don't see them slipping up here. NMSU is one of the reasons some are saying the WAC will be the new Sun Belt starting in 2012. Nevada won't have any troubles here. UNR 41 NMSU 17. Brandon: UNR 48 NMSU 13.

#13 Arkansas Razorbacks 8-2 (4-2) @ #21 Mississippi State Bulldogs 7-3 (3-3) 7 PM ET

It's nice to see the Bulldogs on the national radar. It's been awhile. Too bad South Carolina has the SEC Cinderella of the season. MSU would love to pull this upset at home but I'm not quite sure I see that happening. The Razorbacks are just a little too talented and powerful. I do like to see a battle though, but it won't be enough of one for the Bulldogs to get win number eight. Ark 28 MSU 23. Brandon: Ark 21 MSU 21.

#15 Missouri Tigers 8-2 (4-2) @ Iowa State Cyclones 5-6 (3-4) 7 PM ET

This is Iowa State's last chance to become bowl eligible. They've not fared very well against ranked opponents this season with the Nebraska game being the exception. Don't know where that came from. How do you almost beat Nebraska and then get destroyed by Colorado? Really? Yeah there's no hope for this team on senior day. The Tigers will plow through them all day. Mizzou 45 ISU 20. Brandon: Mizzou 37 ISU 27.


Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez
can lead NU to a Big XII title.

#8 Nebraska Cornhuskers 9-1 (5-1) @ #19 Texas A&M Aggies 7-3 (4-2) 8 PM ET

The Huskers have nearly all but punched their ticket to the Big XII title game. They have two games left and this one won't exactly be easy. The Aggies are on a roll right now with back to back wins over Oklahoma and Baylor and they don't want to let anything up on senior day. Bo Pelini's team has struggled since the Mizzou game. Despite two wins, one was in OT to Iowa State and perhaps the Cyclones don't fake that PAT, it could have continued. Also, the Huskers only put up twenty points on Kansas. Not sure how to read that since they only bead South Dakota State earlier in the year 17-3, then thumped Kansas. It seems they play to the caliber of their opponents (hence the loss to Texas). Having said all of that, I like NU to win this one. Their a bit more talented and have more than one play maker. NU 27 TAMU 24. Brandon: NU 24 TAMU 23.

#14 Oklahoma Sooners 8-2 (4-2) @ Baylor Bears 7-4 (4-3) 8 PM ET

The Bears are struggling right now. Yes they made it to bowl eligibility by a game, and that seems to be all they wanted. They got blown out by Oklahoma State and lost by twelve at home to Texas A&M. It's like as soon as they became bowl eligible and ranked for the first time since 1994 they didn't want anything more than that. They had a shot to win the Big XII South. What happened? Based on everything I've said, Baylor has no momentum right now. OU is still alive in the conference title hunt. This game will be decided on motivation. Even if it wasn't, I'd still pick the Sooners. OU 31 BU 17. Brandon: OU 36 BU 24.


Danny O'Brien knows the ACC title is close. He
and the Terrapins will have to get past Florida
State first.

 #25 Florida State Seminoles 7-3 (5-2) @ Maryland Terrapins 7-3 (4-2) 8 PM ET

The Seminoles cannot afford to lose this game. It's their final conference game before the rivalry with the Gators. These Terrapins and North Carolina State are right behind them in the ACC Atlantic standings. Beating UMD is a must. NCSU plays at UNC this week then at UMD next week. Pretend the Terps pull this one off and lost to NCSU next week, all three schools are tied 5-3 in conference play but the Wolfpack get the nod having beaten both the others. Some crazy stuff. So FSU needs a win here and hopes for NCSU to lose at least one of the last two (which are both on the road). Now that I've broken that down ... It's time to start my pick. Christian Ponder is having a highly disappointing season that has been hampered a bit by injury but should be good to go. The Terps haven't lost at home, but their home schedule has been weak sauce. I'm not a fan of Ponder. He hasn't been anything but hype really. I like the Terps to win this one. Both teams are pretty even, but due to me thinking FSU and their "amazing" quarterback being overrated this year and this game being at home for the Terps, they have the edge. UMD 28 FSU 23. Brandon: UMD 30 FSU 28.

Brady Hoke has put SDSU on the map
in the Mountain West. But can he lead
them to a victory over the Utes?

#23 Utah Utes 8-2 (5-1) @ San Diego State Aztecs 7-3 (4-2) 10 PM ET

The Utes are having nothing but trouble right now. Coach Kyle Whittingham has said each position is up for review. Which means ... everyone pretty much sucks right now. Jordan Wynn has taken most of the heat for the struggles and I wouldn't be surprised to see Terrence Cain play in this one. The Aztecs have a shot for second in the MWC ... in fact if they win, there will be a three way tie between SDSU, Utah and BYU. Crazy. SDSU gave TCU all they could handle last week losing 40-35. If you combine all three losses for the Aztecs, they were by a combined amount of 11 points. All three on the road. With Utah being in shambles right now after their two straight embarrassing performances at home to TCU and on the road at Notre Dame, I'm not sure if they have enough to recover and beat this Aztec team who has fire in their eyes. They know the Utes are down and will be taking full advantage of that. I'm calling the upset here. SDSU 31 Utah 23. Brandon: SDSU 34 Utah 32.

College Football: Week 11

Only a couple weeks left in the season. I got blown out again. Brandon finished 14-5 (1-1) while I was 11-8 (0-3). By far my worst of the season. I'm actually a little embarrassed. Hopefully something happens in these next couple weeks. But I'll continue to go with my gut. Here's what the standings looks like now. Brandon is 166-37 (7-11) with me at 154-49 (7-18).

My helmet sticker for last week went to Andy Dalton. Amidst all the doubt he was getting from virtually EVERYONE, he went on the road to what was supposed to be a hostile environment in Salt Lake City and threw the ball 26 times with 21 completions. Those passes went for 355 yards and 3 TD's. Brandon is giving away co-helmet stickers again with Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon of Oklahoma State getting the honors. Weeden was 34-42 with 435 yards and 3 TD's. Blackmon caught 13 of those passes and had 173 yards with a TD while the Cowboys made Baylor look like the normal team from Waco we're all used to seeing.

South Carolina and Florida have this weeks GOW with Clemson and Florida State getting the NT25 pick of the week.Will an undefeated get beaten? Here are the picks. (For Brandon's picks and opinion on what's going on in the world of sports please visit the following link. http://thebiznizfiles.blogspot.com/

Friday November 12th 2010

#4 Boise State Broncos 8-0 (4-0) @ Idaho Vandals 4-5 (1-3) 9 PM ET

Vandal fans are hoping they get this one. It's in question as to if BSU and the UofI will continue the rivalry when the Broncos jump to the Mountain West next season. The reason nobody really talks about it that often? Because no one cares. The Vandals are irregardless. Just another W for Chris peterson's Broncos. BSU 48 Idaho 10. Brandon: BSU 53 Idaho 23.

Saturday November 13th 2010

#7 Wisconsin Badgers 8-1 (4-1) vs Indiana Hoosiers 4-5 (0-5) 12 PM ET

The Hoosiers continue to be win-less in the Big Ten. It's hard for me to believe that they, as an AQ school, have a better shot at the title than Boise State and TCU. The same can be said for the likes of Duke and the entire Big East conference. Anyway, the Badgers have to play them and it won't even be close. They have the Rose Bowl in their foresight and can't afford anymore slip ups. The Hoosiers don't have the ability to do that. Wisconsin 45 IU 17. Brandon: Wisc. 35 IU 21

#13 Iowa Hawkeyes 7-2 (4-1) @ Northwestern Wildcats 6-3 (2-3) 12 PM ET

The Hawkeyes nearly saw their Big Ten title hopes fall when they held off the Hoosiers of Indiana 18-13 on the road last weekend. Now they're still alive in the run for the Rose Bowl. Dan Persa is doing great things for Northwestern, but the Wildcats just can't seem to be an elite in the conference just yet. A win year would fill the gap a bit in the standings. Persa is dangerous and could give Iowa a scare. The Hawkeyes D has been inconsistent at times shutting teams out but allowing 31 points other times. I like Ricky Stanzi and Adam Robinson, but I'm going with the upset here. And good thing since it's desperation time for me to catch up to Brandon. In all honesty, I think Dan Persa will surprise a lot of folks. NW 31 Iowa 28. Brandon: Iowa 35 NW 24.


The Tigers hope to reach
the Big XII title game.

#17 Missouri Tigers  7-2 (3-2) vs #24 Kansas State Wildcats 6-3 (3-3)  12:30 PM ET

The Tigers thought they had a shot at the BCS title this year ... that was before they lost two consecutive road games to #14 Nebraska and unranked Texas Tech. Another loss and they can nearly kiss their Big XII title hopes goodbye. Even if they win out, Nebraska has to lose and looking at their schedule I doubt that happens. Mizzou is definitely staring a disappointing end to this season in the face as the Wildcats come to Columbia. KSU has shown some promise but face their fourth ranked opponent this season. (BU was ranked, and UCF wasn't at the time but they are now. Add them all and it's 5). I like this to be a competitive game. Look for Dan Thomas to lead the Wildcat offense but I see Blaine Gabbert and Mizzou coming out on top. Mizzou 28 KSU 26. Brandon: Mizzou 34 KSU 28.

#14 Utah Utes 8-1 (5-1) @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish 4-5 2:30 PM ET

The Utes proved last week how overrated they really are. They also proved that strength of schedule really does play a huge factor. That's why I think TCU gets the title over Boise State but that's a topic I'll leave to the world wide leader. Utah's running game was shutdown against TCU and they weren't able to get anything done. Manti Te'o of Notre Dame will lead his defense and try to do that. However, I don't think they have enough talent on defense. Nor do I think the Irish have enough talent on offense to get anything done either. Maybe if Dayne Crist was healthy, but that's a maybe. The Utes won't blowout ND, but they do get the win in South Bend. Utah 30 ND 20. Brandon: Utah 35 ND 20.

#2 Auburn Tigers 10-0 (6-0) vs Georgia Bulldogs 5-5 (3-4)  3:30 PM ET

Cam Newton was another QB who shined amidst alot of doubt and negativity. But, Auburn was playing Chattanooga. I don't necessarily think Georgia is all that good (their record attests to that) but I still see Newton with a huge day. Nobody can stop him. The Tigers look forward to the Iron Bowl as they cruise to victory over the Bulldogs. UA 45 UGA 23. Brandon: UA 37 UGA 20.

Terelle Pryor wants the Big Ten
championship. Will it be enough
to get to the BCS title?



#3 Ohio State Buckeyes 8-1 (4-1) vs Penn State Nittany Lions 6-3 (3-2) 3:30 PM ET

Sure the Lions got to bask in JoePa's 400th win. But there's still more 2010 football to be played. How sweet would that be to upset the Buckeyes on the road? But yeah that's not going to happen. Terelle Pryor has the Rose bowl in his foresight and slipping up is not something he wants in his resume right now. He still wants to make his statement for the Heisman too. Perhaps a one loss Buckeye team can surpass TCU and Boise in the standings? I doubt that, but it's a nice debate. Actually I'm giving the Buckeyes defense the reason of victory in this one. Or perhaps the youth of Penn State's offense. Robert Bolden will do good things for JoePa in the coming years. The future is bright for PSU but I'm not going with them for this one. OSU 34 PSU 20. Brandon: OSU 36 PSU 21.

#16 Oklahoma Sooners 7-2 (3-2) vs Texas Tech Red Raiders 5-4 (3-4) 3:30 PM ET

How bout the Raiders with the solid victory over the Tigers? Very impressive. Although their black camo jerseys were ridiculously disgusting (that goes for Utah too). I'm not quite sure Tech can take that momentum into Norman and get the upset. It should be a close one though, with the home team Sooners coming out on top. OU 31 TTU 27. Brandon: OU 37 TTU 28.

#20 Virigina Tech Hokies 7-2 (5-0) @ North Carolina Tar Heels 6-3 (3-2) 3:30 PM ET

The Hokies continue to roll and remain undefeated in the ACC. They have a two win lead on Miami (FL) and these UNC Tar heels for first place in the Coastal division. Poetically, after the heels, they travel to Coral Gables to face the 'Canes. Pressure is on in Chapel Hill. VT doesn't want to remember the loss to James Madison. Winning the ACC will help them do that. The Tar Heels had the solid two point victory over Florida State last week on the road and they hope to bring that momentum home. I like this game to be a thriller with the Hokies coming away with the win. Perhaps in OT. TJ Yates needs a big game and UNC's defense has to stop this insane rushing attack. That is the difference. Look for a shootout and Tech getting the victory to clinch their spot in the ACC title game. VT 41 UNC 38. Brandon: VT 34 UNC 24.

#3 TCU Horned Frogs 10-0 (6-0) vs San Diego State Aztecs 7-2 (4-1) 4 PM ET

The Aztecs are definitely a team on the rise. Their only two losses this season were by three points each. Both were on the road at Missouri and BYU. Brady Hoke has this team on the right track. But don't think for a second that I'm going to pick them to upset TCU. This one won't be a three point victory either. These Frogs are for real. No one can question that now after their demolition of then #5 Utah. Watch out Aztecs. Andy Dalton is in the house. TCU 38 SDSU 10. Brandon: TCU 39 SDSU 15.

#5 LSU Tigers 8-1 (5-1) vs Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks 4-5 (3-3) 7 PM ET

LSU has proven me wrong all season long. Clearly one of the best teams in the nation. They lack one premier play maker. Nobody stands out. The epitome of a team. I am impressed and will no longer disrespect them this season (now that it's over in two weeks). Here is another bye week for them also. Big win. LSU 58 ULM 17. Brandon: LSU 45 ULM 14.

#8 Nebraska Cornhuskers 8-1 (4-1) vs Kansas Jayhawks 3-6 (1-4) 7 PM ET

NU had a scare last week at Iowa State. Iowa State? Really? Lets hope that's a fluke as Kansas comes to town. Another loss will put them at a tie with Missouri for the Big XII North. I don't see that happening this week though. The Jayhawks are just flat out terrible. Their BCS run a few years ago was a fluke. They're back to normal. Basketball is definitely king. Big win for the Huskers. NU 38 KU 7. Brandon: NU 38 KU 10.

#15 Arkansas Razorbacks 7-2 (4-2) vs UTEP Miners 6-4 (3-4) 7 PM ET

Arkansas' Big XII title hopes may be shot but they can still tie for second in the West. However, that will have to wait til they play LSU. They have UTEP this week on ESPNU. Not really much to say about this game. Its clear what the outcome will be. UTEP has a decent quarterback in Trevor Vittatoe, but that's about all they have. This will be a bye week for the Razorbacks. Ark. 34 UTEP 13. Brandon: Bama 45 UTEP 21.


Jay Finley will help the Bears
recover from the big loss to
OSU.

#25 Texas A&M Aggies 6-3 (3-2) @ Baylor Bears 7-3 (4-2) 7 PM ET

Baylor looked much like the team we know them as last week. What happened Bears? Perhaps Oklahoma State is just that good. That could have been the Big XII South championship game too. Both Baylor and the Aggies are hoping the Cowboys lose out. That still gives them a shot to win second place (and don't forget about OU who is still in the hunt for the South with two losses of their own). But, this game has to be played first. I wasn't really sold on A&M until Jerrod Johnson got benched. Ryan Tannehill is clearly the better QB and it's showing in the performance of the team. No one expected them to upset the Sooners. This should be a solid game but I'm taking the upset. The Bears are at home and will rebound after their blowout loss. They will knock TAMU off the high horse beating Oklahoma put them on. BU 28 TAMU 17. Brandon: BU 33 TAMU 30.

#12 Alabama Crimson Tide 7-2 (4-2) vs #19 Mississippi State Bulldogs 7-2 (3-2) 7:15 PM ET

Solid SEC match up. Where have the Bulldogs been? I can't remember the last time they had only two losses at this point in the season and were ranked. Good for MSU. I like this to be a dog fight (no pun ... please). The Tide have proven they're vulnerable but still have the talent to prove they can be elite. Although their hopes of defending their BCS title are out the window. I like the Tide in a close victory. They just have more talent than MSU and that will be the deciding factor. Not who makes what mistakes, it's all about the talent in this one. BAMA 26 MSU 19. Brandon: Bama 28 MSU 23.



Can the Gamecocks reach the SEC title game? Florida may
stand in their way.

 GAME OF THE WEEK

#22 Florida Gators 6-3 (4-3) vs #23 South Carolina Gamecocks 6-3 (4-3) 7:15 PM ET

Consider this the play-in game for the SEC title game. This could very well decide the East Champion in the conference. What a beauty it will be. Not quite sure what happened to the Cocks against Arkansas. They didn't even show up. Lost by three touchdowns. Bouncing back with a victory in the swamp will not be an easy task. Yes Florida isn't the Florida we've known lately, but they still have Urban Meyer. Having said that, I'm going with the talent factor again. SC I think has more talent than the Gators and I believe that will lead them into the SEC title game. Expect a fight, but Stephen Garcia and Marcus Lattimore trump John Brantley and Jeff Demps. Sorry Gator fans. SC 24 UF 20. Brandon: UF 34 SC 29.

#1 Oregon Ducks 9-0 (6-0) @ California Golden Bears 5-4 (3-3) 7:30 PM ET

Does anybody think the Ducks are going to lose at all this season? I stated weeks ago Oregon was going to win out. I have no reason to think they will come close to losing. Not even the Civil War. It's hard for me to believe that Washington State held them to their least points of the season. And that was 43. This team is ridiculous. Could be the most dominant college football team ever. Ducks fly (together) in this one...again. Oregon 54 Cal 16. Brandon: Ore. 51 Cal 20.

#6 Stanford Cardinal 8-1 (5-1) @ Arizona State Sun Devils 4-5 (2-4) 7:30 PM ET

Tough loss last week for the Devils. Couldn't quite get the upset in SoCal. Coming home to host Stanford won't be easy either. Andrew Luck is just too powerful for this team. I'm not sure that there's much else I can say. The Cardinal wins this one comfortably. Stanford 34 ASU 17. Brandon: Stanford 42 ASU 16.

#10 Oklahoma State Cowboys 8-1 (4-1) @ Texas Longhorns 4-5 (2-4) 8 PM ET

Texas is just a bad team. Does anyone remember the last time they lost three in a row? How bout the last five of six? Ouch. I'm still having a hard time believing how they beat Nebraska. I just don't get it. I'm not sure I see them getting the upset here. OSU is looking for the Big XII title and potentially a BCS birth. I'm not sure I see the Longhorns standing in their way. Even though the game is played in Austin, Texas just isn't a good team in 2010. Home field advantage may give them some momentum throughout the game, but that's about it. OSU 27 UT 20. Brandon: OSU 37 UT 32.

#18 Arizona Wildcats 7-2 (4-2) vs USC Trojans 6-3 (3-3) 8 PM ET 8 PM ET

What do the Trojans have to play for? Everyone knows Oregon is going to win the Pac-10 anyway. The Trojans do still have talent on their team despite their inability to reach a bowl game. And their not just going to give up as we can all see with their six wins. I actually like them in this match up against Arizona. The Wildcats are good don't get me wrong, but they've struggled against every California team this season. Sure they beat Cal and UCLA, but neither of them are great and Stanford blew them out. I like this to be another dog fight but I give the nod to Matt Barkely's crew at home. USC 27 Arizona 25. Brandon: Zona 30 USC 27.

Kyle Parker is hoping
some dominoes fall and his
Tigers can win the ACC.



NON-TOP 25 GAME

Clemson Tigers 5-4 (3-3) @ Florida State Seminoles 6-3 (4-2) 8 PM ET

Should've gone with my gut last week. Wanted to pick Clemson. I didn't, therefore I lost. The ACC Atlantic is already intresting with FSU, UMD and NCSU with two losses tied for first. Could you imagine if Clemson pulled this one off? Does it even matter? Is anyone in the conference going to beat Virginia Tech? I don't know what's wrong with the Seminoles right now. They've lost two straight games to NCSU and UNC. They have no momentum and need a solid win if their going to make it to the ACC title game. I'm going with the upset. Christian Ponder hasn't really had the season everyone expected. Clemson has nothing to lose right now, oh except their bowl eligibility. One more win gets them that and they are hot. This game is all about momentum and look for solid performances from Andre Ellington and Kyle Parker. Clemson 27 FSU 23. Brandon: FSU 38 Clemson 28.



Ryan Colburn's Bulldogs are flying
under the radar in the WAC. Can they
win the conference?



#21 Nevada Wolfpack 8-1 (3-1) @ Fresno State Bulldogs 6-2 (4-1) 10:30 PM ET

Nevada's season was let down when they lost to Hawaii. They jumped the gun and started calling out Boise State as I've mentioned before. So I have reason to think they'll over look this one. Colin Kaepernick is a solid quarterback, but he's the only weapon the Wolfpack really has offensively. Fresno State has always been a decent team. I see them being a semi giant killer here. Either way the three way tie for second ends here with just two remaining. I'm going with Ryan Colburn's Bulldogs in the close upset. Can anyone beat Boise? FSU 37 UNR 35. Brandon: UNR 41 FSU 27.

College Football: Week 10

Wow it's week 10 already. This season is just cruisin on by. Week 9's standings were as follows: Brandon 15-5 (1-1) Me 16-4 (2-1). I'm going to have to beat B-Diddy by more than one pick if I'm going to come from behind. He's at 152-32 (6-10) with me at 143-41 (7-15). Keep in mind we still have all of the bowl games to pick too.

The helmet sticker last week unanimously goes to Roy Helu Jr. of Nebraska. He ran the ball 28 times gaining 307 yards and 3 TD's. I remember getting numbers like that playing Gamebreaker '01 on the PS1. Who has the video game offense now? My honorable mention goes to Utah's backfield duo of Eddie Wide and Matt Asiata. Brandon's honorable mention was LaMichael James of Oregon.

A top 5 non-AQ match up for the GOW and the Gameday site. Wow. Potential BCS play-in game for TCU and Utah. Should be highly intriguing.

Thursday Nov. 4th 2010

Tyrod Taylor hopes to lead VT to the
ACC Championship Game.

#22 Virignia Tech Hokies 6-2 (4-0) vs Georgia Tech Yellowjackets 5-3 (3-2) 7:30 PM ET

The Hokies are still on a roll after their embarassing loss to JMU. Tech had some promise but have yet to play the top of the ACC. They haven't really played well on the road either. Which is why I don't see them pulling the upset at Lane Stadium. The ACC is barely more credible than the Big East (BigOne). It's been very inconsistent and hard to figure out this season so don't be surprised to see an upset. But I'm goin with VT. VT 27 GT 18. Brandon: VT 40 GT 23.

Saturday Nov. 6th 2010

#9 Wisconsin Badgers 7-1 (3-1) @ Purdue Boilermakers 4-4 (2-2) 12 PM ET

I still don't really have much to say about Purdue this year. Actually I haven't been too sold on the Badgers either. Until the last two weeks. This team is for real. Now they're on the road facing a Big Ten opponent but I don't think being on the road will be much of a factor. Badgers win comfortably. Wisc. 37 Pur 16. Brandon: Wisc 35 Pur 16. 

#14 Michigan State Spartans 8-1 (4-1) vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers 1-8 (0-5) 12 PM ET

Um yeah. Is there really anything to say about this one? The Spartans bounce back after a loss and they do it in style and fashion. Did I mention it would be easy too? MSU 48 Minny 17. Brandon: MSU 38 Minny 14.

#16 Iowa Hawkeyes 6-2 (3-1) @ Indiana Hoosiers 4-4 (0-4) 12 PM ET

Indiana has proven nothing this season other than the fact that they would run the table in the Sun Belt. Iowa destroyed Michigan State last week and are still in the running for the Big Ten title. The Hoosiers won't be much of a stumbling block. Maybe a mandatory speed bump. Hawkeyes roll. Iowa 34 IU 10. Brandon: Iowa 35 IU 21.

#25 North Carolina State Wolfpack 6-2 (3-1) @ Clemson Tigers 4-4 (2-3) 12 PM ET

Another ACC match up. NCSU had the nice upset over Florida State last week which put them in the top 25 in the nation. Clemson showed promise early in the year and earned an upset pick by me (that they didn't live up to). They're just a bit young. Give them another year or two and they'll be in the BCS standings again. The Wolfpack take this one but I like the Tigers to put up a fight. Close game. NCSU 27 Clemson 24. Brandon: Clemson 30 NCSU 27.

With a win, Robert Griffin can
lead the Bears to bowl eligibility.

#17 Oklahoma State Cowboys 7-1 (3-1) vs #21 Baylor Bears 7-2 (4-1) 12:30 PM ET

The Baylor Bears continue to have one of their best seasons in history. Yet they're still one win away from being bowl eligible due to their two victories over D-IAA schools. Traveling to Stillwater won't be the easy way to get that win. Will Brandon Weeden let his team lose their second game at home? This game will go down to which offense is on the field for the last possession. I'm going with the upset here. Robert Griffin III can beat you through the air and his legs and I think that could be the difference. No disrespect Cowboy fans, but I've always been known for picking the Cinderella stories. If you don't like it, shut me up and win. BU 38 OSU 33. Brandon: OSU 40 BU 30.

#2 Auburn Tigers 9-0 (6-0) vs Chattanooga Mocs 5-3 (4-2)

Chattanooga? Really? Even a big win here really can't be doing that much for Auburn's strength of schedule can it? Oh well. One more game till the showdown with the Tide. UA 66 Chat. 0.

#1 Oregon Ducks 8-0 (5-0) vs Washington Huskies 3-5 (2-3) 3:30 PM ET

The video game offense faces one of the most if not the most overrated quarterback in the nation. And they do it at home. The only real mystery for this one is which uniform Nike State will wear for this one. Oh ... and UW may find the endzone once or twice ... maybe. Oregon 58 UW 17.

Andy Dalton and the Horned Frogs are looking for
a return trip to a BCS game. Utah could be the
only stumbling block along the way.

GAME OF THE WEEK
#3 TCU Horned Frogs 9-0 (5-0) @ #5 Utah Utes 8-0 (5-0) 3:30 PM ET

We have a beauty in Salt Lake. A BCS play-in game potentially. Also, it could be the last time these two schools ever play each other. Both are going to want this one bad. Both schools have excellent defenses but the quality of Utah's opponents is in question. They were able to force five turnovers at Air Force, and still barely hung onto a five point victory. The first time they've played a respectable opponent since Pitt. TCU has allowed 16 points the last five games and have outscored their opponents 367-78 while Utah has outscored theirs 362-113. Both by ridiculous margins. This one could also go down to who's O has the last possession. For me, I think TCU is going to make Utah one dimensional by shutting down the run game. Make Jordan Wynn win it for the Utes. Make him beat Andy Dalton. I don't believe that can happen. Keep in mind if Utah's running game isn't shut down then I believe they can win this game. I'm going with TCU. The offense is a bit more experienced more importantly at the QB position. And TCU's defense is just unbelievable. Utes lose a close one. TCU 31 Utah 27. Brandon: TCU 31 Utah 28.

#4 Boise State Broncos 7-0 (3-0) vs Hawaii Warriors 7-2 (5-0) 3:30 PM ET

Watch out everyone. Hawaii is back. The Warriors last beat Boise in 2007 when they made their own BCS run which they proved they didn't belong. Bad news for them is their playing on the smurf turf. Nobody wins there. I see this being potentially a close game but I am not going against the Broncos. The BCS may have no other choice but put them in the Title this year if only a couple dominoes fall. A 7-2 opponent will look good for them. As good as a WAC rival can be. Look for Kellen Moore to be brilliant once again. BSU 38 UH 24. Brandon: BSU 49 UH 24.

#6 Alabama Crimson Tide 7-1 (4-1) @ #10 LSU Tigers 7-1 (4-1) 3:30 PM ET

I am still having a hard time accepting that LSU is a top ten team this year. Maybe it's just me being ignorant, or Les Miles really is a phenomenal coach because they don't really have an playmakers other than Stevan Ridley. And they got lucky against Tennessee. Alabama is still proving they can make a run to defend their BCS title. Hopefully they don't overlook this week because we all are looking forward to the UA/Bama rivalry. Winner is likely to play for the title. Having said that, I think Nick Saban is smarter than that. Bama takes this one. Bama 23 LSU 19. Brandon: Bama 28 LSU 17.

#7 Nebraska Cornhuskers 7-1 (3-1) @ Iowa State Cyclones 5-4 (3-2) 3:30 PM ET

ISU is having a good year for them. Beating Texas always looks good even when they're in a rebuilding year. But nobody is expecting them to pull the upset this week and you can count me as one of those. The Big XII is still up for grabs and the Huskers know it. A loss here would possibly put them out of conference title contention and therefore BCS title contention. Yeah, not happening. NU 38 ISU 20. Brandon: NU 41 ISU 17.

#24 Florida State Seminoles 6-2 (4-1) vs North Carolina Tar Heels 5-3 (2-2) 3:30 PM ET

The Noles had the disappointing loss to NCSU last thursday. The Heels are hoping VT loses so they can have a shot at the ACC title. But they'd likely have to win out and with Jimbo Fisher and company returning home after a close conference loss, I don't see that happening. They're going to be ready to rebound and hang on to being on top of the ACC-Atlantic standings. I do like a fight from TJ Yates and the Tar Heels though. Just not enough. Too much drama in Chapel Hill this season. FSU 31 UNC 23. Brandon: 36 UNC 21.

#23 Nevada Wolfpack 7-1 (2-1) @ Idaho Vandals 4-4 (1-2) 5 PM ET

UNR is still disappointed they overlooked the Hawaii game. They really wanted to be undefeated when they played Boise State. Colin Kaepernick even said it in his interview after the Cal game. And the team led the fans on a "bring on Boise" chant. OOPS. Oh well, no worries this week at least. The Vandals are having a good season (for Idaho football) but not enough to be the best team in the state. Not even close. Nor will they be. Nor will it be enough to come close to beating the Wolfpack. UNR 48 Idaho 17. Brandon: UNR 47 Idaho 14. 

#8 Oklahoma Sooners 7-1 (3-1)  @ Texas A&M Aggies 5-3 (2-2) 7 PM ET

Jarrod Johnson has been benched and for a good reason. He couldn't stop throwing interceptions. The Aggies had better expectations in the Big XII this season and have clearly not lived up to it. Hosting the Sooners will abide to that. Colorado paid for OU's loss to Missouri and why wouldn't that continue this week? OU wants to be back on top of the BCS standings. They want a showdown against Nebraska in the Big XII title game. Yeah, no way they get upset here. OU 38 TAMU 17. Brandon: OU 36 TAMU 21.

Marcus Lattimore continues
to amaze as a Freshman.

#18 Arkansas Razorbacks 6-2 (3-2)  @ #19 South Carolina Gamecocks 6-2 (4-2) 7 PM ET

Ryan Mallett bounced back after his injury and Vanderbilt was a great opponent for that. He had over 400 passing yards. He got his feel back just fine. Steve Spurrier looks to finally have lived up to expectiations at SC ... well sort of but he's on the right track. The future is bright for the Gamecocks and a win this week would definately be able to define how their post season plays out. They are atop the SEC East standings and a loss would put them at a tie with Florida. The Cocks are also the only ranked team in the SEC East. The Razorbacks don't control their own destiny like the Cocks do. I love Ryan Mallett and I believe he'll have an outstanding NFL career, but I'm going with the upset here. Marcus Lattimore is a freshman phenom and provides a nice security valve for Stephen Garcia. Where Ryan Mallett is the only Razorbacks play maker on offense. If he struggles, the whole team struggles. The Cocks win the dog fight. Was that an oxymoron? SC 27 Ark 24. Brandon: SC 30 Ark 24.

NON TOP-25 GAME
Texas Longhorns 4-4 (2-3) @ Kansas State Wildcats 5-3 (2-3) 8 PM ET

Bad year for the Longhorns. I really want to pick them in this game non only because Brandon picked KSU but I wouldn't feel right doing it. I know they're Texas and have Mack Brown but with their resume and performance thus far, I don't see them coming out on top on the road in Manhattan. I'd like to, but I can't. Sorry 'Horns. Can't hook this one. KSU 34 Tex 25. Brandon: KSU 32 Texas 27.

#12 Missouri Tigers 7-1 (3-1) @ Texas Tech Red Raiders 4-4 (2-4) 8 PM ET

Tech has shown some promise at points this season, yet here they are at .500 and likely wouldn't be guaranteed a bowl if they win six games. Missouri on the other hand just got embarrassed by Nebraska and needs to win to be able to fight for a spot in the Big XII title. No surprises here in Lubbock. Look for Taylor Potts to have a decent game with a TD or two. But this won't be close. Mizzou 41 TTU 28. Brandon: Mizzou 42 TTU 27.

Nick Foles returns but can he lead
Arizona to upset Andrew Luck's
Cardinal in Palo Alto?

#13 Stanford Cardinal 7-1 (4-1) vs #15 Arizona Wildcats 7-1 (4-1) 8 PM ET

Nick Foles is 100 percent and ready to face his counterpart Andrew Luck. What a solid Pac-10 match up we have. Even though everyone knows Oregon is going to win out, there's still a shot at the Rose Bowl here. If either team can get high enough. Which probably isn't likely. So what's at stake here? For Luck, his NFL draft resume and for Arizona, well, who thought they'd be here anyway? Look for a shootout folks. And what a thriller it will be too. I'm calling the upset. Again with the Cinderella tendency in my sport predicting life. No I really think AZ's offense is a bit more deep than Stanford's. Yes it's in Palo Alto and I'm not doubting Luck's ability, but Arizona is still proving they belong since they've really never been there in my lifetime. They may want it just a bit more than the Cardinal. Zona 38 Stanford 35. Brandon: Stanford 36 Arizona 30.