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   College Football Trend Report

   BALL ST (9 - 0) at MIAMI OHIO (2 - 7) - 11/11/2008, 7:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   BALL ST is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.

   BALL ST is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.

   BALL ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.

   BALL ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   BALL ST is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   MIAMI OHIO is 1-1 against the spread versus BALL ST over the last 3 seasons

   MIAMI OHIO is 1-1 straight up against BALL ST over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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   TEMPLE (3 - 6) at KENT ST (2 - 7) - 11/12/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   KENT ST is 3-14 ATS (-12.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 3-14 ATS (-12.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.

   KENT ST is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   TEMPLE is 2-0 against the spread versus KENT ST over the last 3 seasons

   KENT ST is 1-1 straight up against TEMPLE over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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   C MICHIGAN (7 - 2) at N ILLINOIS (5 - 4) - 11/12/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   C MICHIGAN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.

   C MICHIGAN is 24-10 ATS (+13.0 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.

   C MICHIGAN is 24-10 ATS (+13.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.

   C MICHIGAN is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.

   C MICHIGAN is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   N ILLINOIS is 1-1 against the spread versus C MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons

   N ILLINOIS is 1-1 straight up against C MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   BUFFALO (5 - 4) at AKRON (5 - 4) - 11/13/2008, 7:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   BUFFALO is 2-0 against the spread versus AKRON over the last 3 seasons

   AKRON is 1-1 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   VIRGINIA TECH (6 - 3) at MIAMI (6 - 3) - 11/13/2008, 7:45 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   VIRGINIA TECH is 69-47 ATS (+17.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   VIRGINIA TECH is 38-22 ATS (+13.8 Units) in road games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

   VIRGINIA TECH is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in November games over the last 3 seasons.

   VIRGINIA TECH is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 over the last 3 seasons.

   MIAMI is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   VIRGINIA TECH is 2-0 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons

   VIRGINIA TECH is 2-0 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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   WYOMING (4 - 6) at UNLV (4 - 6) - 11/13/2008, 9:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   WYOMING is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

   WYOMING is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   WYOMING is 1-12 ATS (-12.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.

   WYOMING is 3-14 ATS (-12.4 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

   UNLV is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   UNLV is 2-0 against the spread versus WYOMING over the last 3 seasons

   WYOMING is 2-0 straight up against UNLV over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   CINCINNATI (7 - 2) at LOUISVILLE (5 - 4) - 11/14/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   CINCINNATI is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.

   CINCINNATI is 29-14 ATS (+13.6 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   LOUISVILLE is 1-1 against the spread versus CINCINNATI over the last 3 seasons

   LOUISVILLE is 2-0 straight up against CINCINNATI over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   INDIANA (3 - 7) at PENN ST (9 - 1) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   INDIANA is 48-72 ATS (-31.2 Units) as an underdog since 1992.

   INDIANA is 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) in November games since 1992.

   INDIANA is 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   INDIANA is 1-0 against the spread versus PENN ST over the last 3 seasons

   PENN ST is 1-0 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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   PURDUE (3 - 7) at IOWA (6 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   IOWA is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) as a favorite of 10.5 to 21 points over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   IOWA is 1-1 against the spread versus PURDUE over the last 3 seasons

   IOWA is 1-1 straight up against PURDUE over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   NORTHWESTERN (7 - 3) at MICHIGAN (3 - 7) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   MICHIGAN is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all games this season.

   MICHIGAN is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all lined games this season.

   MICHIGAN is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   MICHIGAN is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.

   MICHIGAN is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   NORTHWESTERN is 2-0 against the spread versus MICHIGAN over the last 3 seasons

   MICHIGAN is 2-0 straight up against NORTHWESTERN over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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   MINNESOTA (7 - 3) at WISCONSIN (5 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   WISCONSIN is 1-1 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons

   WISCONSIN is 2-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   WAKE FOREST (6 - 3) at NC STATE (3 - 6) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   WAKE FOREST is 2-0 against the spread versus NC STATE over the last 3 seasons

   WAKE FOREST is 2-0 straight up against NC STATE over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   DUKE (4 - 5) at CLEMSON (4 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   CLEMSON is 1-0 against the spread versus DUKE over the last 3 seasons

   CLEMSON is 1-0 straight up against DUKE over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   N CAROLINA (7 - 2) at MARYLAND (6 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   N CAROLINA is 1-0 against the spread versus MARYLAND over the last 3 seasons

   N CAROLINA is 1-0 straight up against MARYLAND over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   NOTRE DAME (5 - 4) vs. NAVY (6 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   NAVY is 102-71 ATS (+23.9 Units) in all games since 1992.

   NAVY is 102-71 ATS (+23.9 Units) in all lined games since 1992.

   NAVY is 67-41 ATS (+21.9 Units) as an underdog since 1992.

   NAVY is 23-10 ATS (+12.0 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.

   NAVY is 96-65 ATS (+24.5 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.

   NAVY is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) when playing with 2 weeks or more of rest since 1992.

   NAVY is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in road games after a bye week since 1992.

   NAVY is 51-21 ATS (+27.9 Units) in road games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

   NAVY is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in games played on a neutral field since 1992.

   NAVY is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in road games in November games since 1992.

   NAVY is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in road games in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   NAVY is 1-1 against the spread versus NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons

   NAVY is 1-1 straight up against NOTRE DAME over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   CONNECTICUT (6 - 3) at SYRACUSE (2 - 7) - 11/15/2008, 7:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   SYRACUSE is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

   SYRACUSE is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   SYRACUSE is 1-1 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons

   SYRACUSE is 1-1 straight up against CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   MISSISSIPPI ST (3 - 6) at ALABAMA (10 - 0) - 11/15/2008, 12:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   ALABAMA is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) as a favorite of 10.5 to 21 points over the last 3 seasons.

   ALABAMA is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) in home games since 1992.

   ALABAMA is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) in home lined games since 1992.

   ALABAMA is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.

   ALABAMA is 40-65 ATS (-31.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.

   ALABAMA is 31-53 ATS (-27.3 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   ALABAMA is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   MISSISSIPPI ST is 2-0 against the spread versus ALABAMA over the last 3 seasons

   MISSISSIPPI ST is 2-0 straight up against ALABAMA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   VANDERBILT (5 - 4) at KENTUCKY (6 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   KENTUCKY is 2-0 against the spread versus VANDERBILT over the last 3 seasons

   KENTUCKY is 2-0 straight up against VANDERBILT over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   TEXAS A&M (4 - 6) at BAYLOR (3 - 7) - 11/15/2008, 4:05 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   BAYLOR is 52-77 ATS (-32.7 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.

   BAYLOR is 50-75 ATS (-32.5 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   BAYLOR is 17-36 ATS (-22.6 Units) in November games since 1992.

   BAYLOR is 17-36 ATS (-22.6 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   TEXAS A&M is 2-0 against the spread versus BAYLOR over the last 3 seasons

   TEXAS A&M is 2-0 straight up against BAYLOR over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   NEW MEXICO (4 - 7) at COLORADO ST (4 - 6) - 11/15/2008, 2:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   COLORADO ST is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.

   COLORADO ST is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   COLORADO ST is 1-1 against the spread versus NEW MEXICO over the last 3 seasons

   NEW MEXICO is 2-0 straight up against COLORADO ST over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   TOLEDO (2 - 7) at W MICHIGAN (8 - 2) - 11/15/2008, 2:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   W MICHIGAN is 2-0 against the spread versus TOLEDO over the last 3 seasons

   W MICHIGAN is 2-0 straight up against TOLEDO over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   UTAH ST (2 - at LOUISIANA TECH (5 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 2:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   LOUISIANA TECH is 2-0 against the spread versus UTAH ST over the last 3 seasons

   LOUISIANA TECH is 2-0 straight up against UTAH ST over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   E CAROLINA (6 - 3) at SOUTHERN MISS (4 - 6) - 11/15/2008, 3:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   E CAROLINA is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3 points or less since 1992.

   E CAROLINA is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 against the spread versus E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons

   SOUTHERN MISS is 1-1 straight up against E CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   UAB (2 - 7) at TULANE (2 - 7) - 11/15/2008, 3:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   TULANE is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points since 1992.

   TULANE is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   UAB is 1-0 against the spread versus TULANE over the last 3 seasons

   UAB is 1-0 straight up against TULANE over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   TEXAS (9 - 1) at KANSAS (6 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 12:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   KANSAS is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

   KANSAS is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.

   TEXAS is 46-28 ATS (+15.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

   TEXAS is 36-20 ATS (+14.0 Units) in November games since 1992.

   KANSAS is 50-77 ATS (-34.7 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   KANSAS is 18-35 ATS (-20.5 Units) in November games since 1992.

   KANSAS is 27-49 ATS (-26.9 Units) off a loss against a conference rival since 1992.

   KANSAS is 18-35 ATS (-20.5 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   MISSOURI (8 - 2) at IOWA ST (2 - - 11/15/2008, 6:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   IOWA ST is 2-0 against the spread versus MISSOURI over the last 3 seasons

   IOWA ST is 1-1 straight up against MISSOURI over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   CALIFORNIA (6 - 3) at OREGON ST (6 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   CALIFORNIA is 12-26 ATS (-16.6 Units) when the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 52-32 ATS (+16.8 Units) in home games since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 52-32 ATS (+16.8 Units) in home lined games since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 50-31 ATS (+15.9 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 72-47 ATS (+20.3 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 71-48 ATS (+18.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 20-6 ATS (+13.4 Units) in home games in November games since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 35-16 ATS (+17.4 Units) off a win against a conference rival since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins since 1992.

   OREGON ST is 20-6 ATS (+13.4 Units) in home games in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   OREGON ST is 1-1 against the spread versus CALIFORNIA over the last 3 seasons

   OREGON ST is 1-1 straight up against CALIFORNIA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   ARIZONA (6 - 3) at OREGON (7 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 6:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   ARIZONA is 54-77 ATS (-30.7 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   OREGON is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in home games off a win against a conference rival since 1992.

   OREGON is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   ARIZONA is 2-0 against the spread versus OREGON over the last 3 seasons

   ARIZONA is 2-0 straight up against OREGON over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   UCLA (3 - 6) at WASHINGTON (0 - 9) - 11/15/2008, 10:15 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   UCLA is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.

   UCLA is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) after playing a conference game over the last 3 seasons.

   WASHINGTON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all games this season.

   WASHINGTON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all lined games this season.

   WASHINGTON is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) as an underdog this season.

   WASHINGTON is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) against conference opponents this season.

   WASHINGTON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   WASHINGTON is 49-77 ATS (-35.7 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   WASHINGTON is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses this season.

   WASHINGTON is 12-27 ATS (-17.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   WASHINGTON is 1-1 against the spread versus UCLA over the last 3 seasons

   WASHINGTON is 1-1 straight up against UCLA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   GEORGIA (8 - 2) at AUBURN (5 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   AUBURN is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all games this season.

   AUBURN is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all lined games this season.

   AUBURN is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) against conference opponents this season.

   AUBURN is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   AUBURN is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.

   AUBURN is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   GEORGIA is 2-0 against the spread versus AUBURN over the last 3 seasons

   GEORGIA is 2-0 straight up against AUBURN over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   BYU (9 - 1) at AIR FORCE (8 - 2) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   AIR FORCE is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 14-2 ATS (+11.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

   AIR FORCE is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins over the last 2 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   BYU is 2-0 against the spread versus AIR FORCE over the last 3 seasons

   BYU is 2-0 straight up against AIR FORCE over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   S CAROLINA (7 - 3) at FLORIDA (8 - 1) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   FLORIDA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in November games over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

   FLORIDA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 over the last 2 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   FLORIDA is 1-1 against the spread versus S CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons

   FLORIDA is 2-0 straight up against S CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   SAN JOSE ST (6 - 4) at NEVADA (5 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 4:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   SAN JOSE ST is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   NEVADA is 1-1 against the spread versus SAN JOSE ST over the last 3 seasons

   NEVADA is 1-1 straight up against SAN JOSE ST over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   UCF (2 - 7) at MARSHALL (4 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 4:30 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   UCF is 2-0 against the spread versus MARSHALL over the last 3 seasons

   UCF is 2-0 straight up against MARSHALL over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   BOISE ST (9 - 0) at IDAHO (2 - - 11/15/2008, 5:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   BOISE ST is 76-45 ATS (+26.5 Units) in all games since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 76-45 ATS (+26.5 Units) in all lined games since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 59-35 ATS (+20.5 Units) as a favorite since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 50-25 ATS (+22.5 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 57-36 ATS (+17.4 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 51-27 ATS (+21.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 52-20 ATS (+30.0 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 47-29 ATS (+15.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 27-8 ATS (+18.2 Units) in November games since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 47-18 ATS (+27.2 Units) off a win against a conference rival since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 52-27 ATS (+22.3 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 33-18 ATS (+13.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.

   BOISE ST is 27-8 ATS (+18.2 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   IDAHO is 1-1 against the spread versus BOISE ST over the last 3 seasons

   BOISE ST is 2-0 straight up against IDAHO over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   TULSA (8 - 1) at HOUSTON (5 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   HOUSTON is 20-35 ATS (-18.5 Units) in November games since 1992.

   HOUSTON is 18-36 ATS (-21.6 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   HOUSTON is 1-1 against the spread versus TULSA over the last 3 seasons

   HOUSTON is 1-1 straight up against TULSA over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   NEW MEXICO ST (3 - 6) at FRESNO ST (5 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 5:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   NEW MEXICO ST is 24-43 ATS (-23.3 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.

   NEW MEXICO ST is 20-42 ATS (-26.2 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.

   NEW MEXICO ST is 13-27 ATS (-16.7 Units) off a loss against a conference rival since 1992.

   NEW MEXICO ST is 11-24 ATS (-15.4 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   FRESNO ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all games this season.

   FRESNO ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all lined games this season.

   FRESNO ST is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) as a favorite this season.

   FRESNO ST is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.

   FRESNO ST is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.

   FRESNO ST is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.

   FRESNO ST is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   FRESNO ST is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.

   FRESNO ST is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   NEW MEXICO ST is 2-0 against the spread versus FRESNO ST over the last 3 seasons

   FRESNO ST is 2-0 straight up against NEW MEXICO ST over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   USC (8 - 1) at STANFORD (5 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 7:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   USC is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in November games over the last 3 seasons.

   USC is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in weeks 10 through 13 over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   STANFORD is 1-1 against the spread versus USC over the last 3 seasons

   STANFORD is 1-1 straight up against USC over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   NEBRASKA (6 - 4) at KANSAS ST (4 - 6) - 11/15/2008, 3:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   KANSAS ST is 54-35 ATS (+15.5 Units) in home games when playing on a Saturday since 1992.

   KANSAS ST is 49-29 ATS (+17.1 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   KANSAS ST is 39-22 ATS (+14.8 Units) in home games after playing a conference game since 1992.

   KANSAS ST is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in home games off a loss against a conference rival since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   NEBRASKA is 2-0 against the spread versus KANSAS ST over the last 3 seasons

   NEBRASKA is 2-0 straight up against KANSAS ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   OKLAHOMA ST (8 - 2) at COLORADO (5 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   OKLAHOMA ST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a favorite of 10.5 to 21 points over the last 3 seasons.

   OKLAHOMA ST is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in all games this season.

   OKLAHOMA ST is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in all lined games this season.

   OKLAHOMA ST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a favorite this season.

   OKLAHOMA ST is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   COLORADO is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.

   COLORADO is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.

   COLORADO is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

   COLORADO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) against conference opponents this season.

   COLORADO is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   COLORADO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.

   COLORADO is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) after playing a conference game over the last 3 seasons.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   RUTGERS (4 - 5) at S FLORIDA (6 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   S FLORIDA is 1-1 against the spread versus RUTGERS over the last 3 seasons

   RUTGERS is 2-0 straight up against S FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   BOSTON COLLEGE (6 - 3) at FLORIDA ST (7 - 2) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   FLORIDA ST is 29-15 ATS (+12.5 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   FLORIDA ST is 1-1 against the spread versus BOSTON COLLEGE over the last 3 seasons

   FLORIDA ST is 1-1 straight up against BOSTON COLLEGE over the last 3 seasons

   2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   OHIO ST (8 - 2) at ILLINOIS (5 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 12:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   OHIO ST is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as a road favorite over the last 3 seasons.

   OHIO ST is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.

   OHIO ST is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road lined games over the last 3 seasons.

   OHIO ST is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.

   OHIO ST is 44-27 ATS (+14.3 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

   ILLINOIS is 37-57 ATS (-25.7 Units) in home games since 1992.

   ILLINOIS is 37-57 ATS (-25.7 Units) in home lined games since 1992.

   ILLINOIS is 49-79 ATS (-37.9 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   ILLINOIS is 2-0 against the spread versus OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons

   ILLINOIS is 1-1 straight up against OHIO ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   UTAH (10 - 0) at SAN DIEGO ST (1 - 9) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   UTAH is 2-0 against the spread versus SAN DIEGO ST over the last 3 seasons

   UTAH is 2-0 straight up against SAN DIEGO ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   SMU (1 - 9) at UTEP (4 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 9:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   UTEP is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.

   UTEP is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) in home games in November games since 1992

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 10 2008 2:11pm
2. 0 likes

   SMU (1 - 9) at UTEP (4 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 9:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   UTEP is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.

   UTEP is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) in home games in November games since 1992.

   UTEP is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) in home games in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   UTEP is 1-1 against the spread versus SMU over the last 3 seasons

   UTEP is 2-0 straight up against SMU over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   WASHINGTON ST (1 - 9) at ARIZONA ST (3 - 6) - 11/15/2008, 5:30 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   WASHINGTON ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all games this season.

   WASHINGTON ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all lined games this season.

   WASHINGTON ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) as an underdog this season.

   WASHINGTON ST is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) when playing on a Saturday this season.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   ARIZONA ST is 1-1 against the spread versus WASHINGTON ST over the last 3 seasons

   ARIZONA ST is 2-0 straight up against WASHINGTON ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   MIDDLE TENN ST (3 - 6) at W KENTUCKY (2 - - 11/15/2008, 1:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   W KENTUCKY is 1-0 straight up against MIDDLE TENN ST over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   LA LAFAYETTE (5 - 4) at FLA ATLANTIC (4 - 5) - 11/15/2008, 4:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   FLA ATLANTIC is 2-0 against the spread versus LA LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons

   FLA ATLANTIC is 1-1 straight up against LA LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   LA MONROE (3 - 7) at OLE MISS (5 - 4) - 11/15/2008, 2:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   TROY (6 - 3) at LSU (6 - 3) - 11/15/2008, 8:00 PM

   Top Trends for this game.

   TROY is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

   LSU is 42-63 ATS (-27.3 Units) in home games since 1992.

   LSU is 42-63 ATS (-27.3 Units) in home lined games since 1992.

   LSU is 25-44 ATS (-23.4 Units) in home games after playing a conference game since 1992.

   LSU is 42-63 ATS (-27.3 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

   LSU is 7-24 ATS (-19.4 Units) in home games in November games since 1992.

   LSU is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

   LSU is 6-23 ATS (-19.3 Units) in home games in weeks 10 through 13 since 1992.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   N ILLINOIS (5 - 4) at KENT ST (2 - 7) - 11/18/2008, 7:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   N ILLINOIS is 1-0 against the spread versus KENT ST over the last 3 seasons

   N ILLINOIS is 1-0 straight up against KENT ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   BALL ST (9 - 0) at C MICHIGAN (7 - 2) - 11/19/2008, 7:00 PM

   There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

   Head-to-Head Series History

   C MICHIGAN is 2-0 against the spread versus BALL ST over the last 3 seasons

   C MICHIGAN is 2-0 straight up against BALL ST over the last 3 seasons

   1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 10 2008 2:13pm
3. 0 likes

   cko

   11 *LOUISIANA TECH over Utah State

   Late Score Forecast: *LOUISIANA TECH 35 - Utah State 9

   WAC sources report the hourglass is about to run dry on the regime of Utah State HC Brent Guy, whose mark since

   taking over at Logan in ‘05 now stands at a poor 8-36. That’s not even been enough to earn the dreaded “vote of

   confidence” from new Utag AD Scott Barnes, as most regional observers believe Guy’s fate is sealed. Fundamentals

   certainly don’t stack up well for USU vs. surging La Tech, undefeated SU (4-0) and vs. line (3-0) at home and

   whose potent 1-2 RB punch of P. Jackson & Porter can bludgeon a soft Utag rush “D” allowing a hefty 5.1 ypc.

   Meanwhile, new Bulldog QB Jenkins has been near mistake-free since assuming starting role last month. Another

   win also gets La Tech bowl-eligible, and Bulldogs know a WAC postseason slot will likely be available if Boise State

   nets a BCS at-large berth.

   10 *MICHIGAN over Northwestern

   Late Score Forecast: *MICHIGAN 27 - Northwestern 14

   Michigan reached back for its best performance of the season in garnering a win at Minnesota last week. Must

   believe HC Rich Rodriguez will call on the Wolverines to show some additional pride and build on that effort this week

   against a Northwestern squad not at full strength. Michigan has won five straight against the Wildcats, all by doubledigit

   margins. Although Northwestern QB C.J. Bacher is expected to return from a hamstring injury that kept him out

   the last two games, he won’t be in full form. The Wildcats 5-0 start has faded to 2-3 the last 5 games, as injures have

   forced them to play without leading rusher Tyrell Sutton, his backup Omar Conteh, top defender LB Malcolm

   Arrington, and key backup DE Vince Browne (4 sacks), who all suffered season-ending injuries. Due to injuries and

   graduation, NW’s offensive line now consists of five first-year starters. The Wolverines are playing their last home

   game, and Michigan has 15 srs. & RS jrs. in the two-deep, most of whom will be playing at “The Big House” for the

   last time.

   10 CONNECTICUT over *Syracuse

   Late Score Forecast: CONNECTICUT 31- *Syracuse 10

   Big East scouts tell us Syracuse’s beleaguered HC Robinson should get the pink slip any day, with Orange scratched

   from bowl contention for 4th straight year following ugly 35-14 loss at Rutgers. Those sources report both ‘Cuse

   QBs Dantley & Robinson (combined 5 of 19 for 35 yds.!) displayed terrible mechanics vs. Knights, while the clueless

   defense (35 ppg) made poor adjustments following halftime. What else is new? Huskies hard-driving HC Edsall

   (played/coached at Syracuse from ‘76-90), who has been mentioned as a possible Robinson successor, has

   reportedly taken full advantage of bye week in aftermath of sloppy (5 TOs) 35-13 loss vs. WV. UConn’s previouslyinjured

   vet QB Lorenzen could return here. But with Huskies scintillating RB D. Brown (1406 YR, 15 TDs, 5.5 ypc)

   running wild, believe strong-armed, 6-4 RS frosh Endres fully capable of hitting play-action passes vs. vulnerable

   Orange 2ndary (65%, 23 TDs, just 7 ints.). Resilient Huskies 9-3 vs. spread last 12 following reg.-season loss.

   10 *ILLINOIS over Ohio State

   Late Score Forecast: *ILLINOIS 24 - Ohio State 23

   Ohio State out for revenge after Illinois’ upset LY in Columbia. But it’s not as simple as that for the Buckeyes. Illinois

   repeatedly has gotten sky-high for OSU, covering six of the last seven meetings, three straight in Champaign-

   Urbana, winning three of the last seven straight up overall, and losing only one of the last seven meetings by more

   than seven points. Illini QB Juice Williams was the key in LY’s 28-21 victory in Columbia, tossing four TDP and then

   putting the game away with clutch spread-option runs late in the fourth quarter. The presence of a healthy Beanie

   Wells is intimidating for OSU, and QB Terrelle Pryor has great natural talent. But the latter is still a true freshman

   making only his fourth road start. Experience edge at QB makes DD spread very inviting

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 2:51pm
4. 0 likes

   CKO CONFIDENTIAL KICK-OFF

   11 *LOUISIANA TECH over Utah State

   Late Score Forecast: *LOUISIANA TECH 35 - Utah State 9

   WAC sources report the hourglass is about to run dry on the regime of Utah State HC Brent Guy, whose mark since

   taking over at Logan in ‘05 now stands at a poor 8-36. That’s not even been enough to earn the dreaded “vote of

   confidence” from new Utag AD Scott Barnes, as most regional observers believe Guy’s fate is sealed. Fundamentals

   certainly don’t stack up well for USU vs. surging La Tech, undefeated SU (4-0) and vs. line (3-0) at home and

   whose potent 1-2 RB punch of P. Jackson & Porter can bludgeon a soft Utag rush “D” allowing a hefty 5.1 ypc.

   Meanwhile, new Bulldog QB Jenkins has been near mistake-free since assuming starting role last month. Another

   win also gets La Tech bowl-eligible, and Bulldogs know a WAC postseason slot will likely be available if Boise State

   nets a BCS at-large berth.

   10 *MICHIGAN over Northwestern

   Late Score Forecast: *MICHIGAN 27 - Northwestern 14

   Michigan reached back for its best performance of the season in garnering a win at Minnesota last week. Must

   believe HC Rich Rodriguez will call on the Wolverines to show some additional pride and build on that effort this week

   against a Northwestern squad not at full strength. Michigan has won five straight against the Wildcats, all by doubledigit

   margins. Although Northwestern QB C.J. Bacher is expected to return from a hamstring injury that kept him out

   the last two games, he won’t be in full form. The Wildcats 5-0 start has faded to 2-3 the last 5 games, as injures have

   forced them to play without leading rusher Tyrell Sutton, his backup Omar Conteh, top defender LB Malcolm

   Arrington, and key backup DE Vince Browne (4 sacks), who all suffered season-ending injuries. Due to injuries and

   graduation, NW’s offensive line now consists of five first-year starters. The Wolverines are playing their last home

   game, and Michigan has 15 srs. & RS jrs. in the two-deep, most of whom will be playing at “The Big House” for the

   last time.

   10 CONNECTICUT over *Syracuse

   Late Score Forecast: CONNECTICUT 31- *Syracuse 10

   Big East scouts tell us Syracuse’s beleaguered HC Robinson should get the pink slip any day, with Orange scratched

   from bowl contention for 4th straight year following ugly 35-14 loss at Rutgers. Those sources report both ‘Cuse

   QBs Dantley & Robinson (combined 5 of 19 for 35 yds.!) displayed terrible mechanics vs. Knights, while the clueless

   defense (35 ppg) made poor adjustments following halftime. What else is new? Huskies hard-driving HC Edsall

   (played/coached at Syracuse from ‘76-90), who has been mentioned as a possible Robinson successor, has

   reportedly taken full advantage of bye week in aftermath of sloppy (5 TOs) 35-13 loss vs. WV. UConn’s previouslyinjured

   vet QB Lorenzen could return here. But with Huskies scintillating RB D. Brown (1406 YR, 15 TDs, 5.5 ypc)

   running wild, believe strong-armed, 6-4 RS frosh Endres fully capable of hitting play-action passes vs. vulnerable

   Orange 2ndary (65%, 23 TDs, just 7 ints.). Resilient Huskies 9-3 vs. spread last 12 following reg.-season loss.

   10 *ILLINOIS over Ohio State

   Late Score Forecast: *ILLINOIS 24 - Ohio State 23

   Ohio State out for revenge after Illinois’ upset LY in Columbia. But it’s not as simple as that for the Buckeyes. Illinois

   repeatedly has gotten sky-high for OSU, covering six of the last seven meetings, three straight in Champaign-

   Urbana, winning three of the last seven straight up overall, and losing only one of the last seven meetings by more

   than seven points. Illini QB Juice Williams was the key in LY’s 28-21 victory in Columbia, tossing four TDP and then

   putting the game away with clutch spread-option runs late in the fourth quarter. The presence of a healthy Beanie

   Wells is intimidating for OSU, and QB Terrelle Pryor has great natural talent. But the latter is still a true freshman

   making only his fourth road start. Experience edge at QB makes DD spread very inviting.

   10 NEW ORLEANS over *Kansas City

   Late Score Forecast:NEW ORLEANS 34 - *Kansas City 19

   The Saints have fallen under .500 and risk losing touch in the VERY competitive NFC South. Good thing they have

   an offense that is much better developed than the rebuilding OL and backfield of the young Chiefs. Yes, the N.O.

   defense still has a few holes (CB McKenzie re-injured last week). So look for Drew Brees and his fine cast of

   receivers to feast on the youthful K.C. defense, especially with the Chiefs still looking for a pass rush (only six sacks

   so far TY!). Reggie Bush (arthro knee surgery nearly a full month ago) is expected to be back to boost the Saints’

   return game and to take advantage of the spread-out Chiefs’ defense (Bush 42 recs. in first seven games). N.O.,

   4-1 as a road favorite L2+Ys, is facing its least-daunting road foe so far TY.

   TOTALS:

   UNDER (38) in the Oakland-Miami Game—Raiders very limited on offense; Dolphins very stable on defense...

   OVER (43) in the San Diego-Pittsburgh Game—S.D. defense way down from LY; Steelers 44-15-1 “over” at Heinz.

   HONORABLE MENTION (Nine-Rated Games):

   VIRGINIA TECH (+4) at Miami-Florida (Thur., Nov. 13)—Hokies now stable at QB; might have found a

   “franchise” RB in RS frosh Darren Evans (253 YR vs. Md.)...

   OREGON STATE (-3) vs. California—Beavers focused on Rose Bowl and undefeated at home

   TY; 5-7 true frosh RB Jacquizz Rodgers (1089 YR) surprising defenses every week...

   BOISE STATE (-34) at Idaho—Spread is large, but defensive

   difference is huge...

   RUTGERS (+7) at South Florida—Greg Schiano has Rutgers back on track (5 straight covers), with QB Mike Teel (9 TDP last 2 games)

   playing assertively as a senior...

   DALLAS (+5) at Washington (Sun., Nov. 16)—Cowboys expected to be much healthier and facing potential do-or-die game

   for their playoff prospects

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 2:53pm
5. 0 likes

   WINNING POINTS

   ****BEST BET

   WISCONSIN* over MINNESOTA by 30

   In addition to all of the statistical tables, past performance patterns and depth

   charts that we can use to evaluate football teams, there is also the studying of public

   perception, especially when driven by the media. As such, we were dumbfounded

   last week to see Minnesota’s Tim Brewster mentioned as a candidate for

   some high-profile jobs that are opening up, including Tennessee. It shows that

   many are attaching too much significance to the Golden Gophers going from last

   year’s 1-11 to the current 7-3. That means that for the second time in three weeks

   we can buck them at the top of this page, after Northwestern beat them outright

   as an underdog in our first salvo. What has Minnesota accomplished? Not much.

   The Gophers have gone #2 in the nation in turnover differential vs. a weak schedule,

   and that will get you wins. But they avoid Penn State and Michigan State in

   the Big 10 this season, and were clocked worse than the final score showed at Ohio

   State (it was 34-6 in the fourth quarter) in their only showdown against the upper

   echelon. Now they bring a depth-shy defense that is showing signs of wear, having

   allowed Northwestern and Michigan to both run for over 200 yards at better than

   5.0 per carry in those last two losses, and that spells doom on the road against a

   physical Badger offense that loves November. They have already rushed for 722

   yards this month, in each case the season-high allowed overland by the opposition,

   and they dominate the trenches again in this one. WISCONSIN 40-10.

   ***BEST BET

   CONNECTICUT over SYRACUSE* by 29

   This will be the last go-round for Greg Robinson in the Carrier Dome, and while

   many times we will look to teams to play hard in their last home game, that is anything

   but the case here. The Orange will still have to go on the road for beatings

   at Notre Dame and Cincinnati after this one, which tempers any emotion for the

   seniors, and given how dismal the run of the team has been in their careers this is

   not a very ceremonious way to close out in front of the home fans, especially since

   there will not be many of them in attendance. So in a negative environment for

   Syracuse we get a chance to step in with a fresh visitor that has had two weeks to

   prepare for this one, which particularly helps that battered QB position. Now

   Randy Edsell has more options available behind center, and what should be fresh

   bodies in all other areas as the Huskies take a step towards a better bowl spot. And

   as for any fears that the Orange have anything left in their tanks, take a closer look

   at last week’s misleading scoreboard at Rutgers. They jumped out 14-0 in an 82-

   yard reverse and a blocked punt return, but were pummeled the rest of the way –

   outside of fooling Rutgers on that early run they managed only 86 yards on their

   other 44 snaps, and the defense was shredded for over 200 yards both running and

   passing, as the Scarlet Knights picked up their season highs in first downs and total

   offense. We will call for more of the same this week, as Donald Brown may be pick-

   ’em to reach 200 rushing by himself. CONNECTICUT 38-9.

   **PREFERRED

   Texas over Kansas* by 22

   Mack Brown’s Longhorns showed us a lot of moxie last week – instead of coming

   out flat after falling from the top spot in the polls, they rolled for 30 first downs

   and 494 yards in a solid rout of Baylor, one that we believe will prove to be cathartic.

   That means a chance to get back to full energy for this one, and with 12 days

   off before they play again there is a prime chance to make a statement in what may

   be their next-to-last chance to impress BCS voters. The key is the precision of Colt

   McCoy overwhelming a slow Kansas secondary that has had an awful time of

   things down the stretch, allowing a staggering 1,478 passing yards in just the last

   four games. They could not compete vs. Oklahoma or Texas Tech in their other Big

   12 step-up games, losing by a combined 56 points, although we do remember well

   how they back-doored us with a meaningless last-minute touchdown against the

   Sooners. And even with a +3 turnover advantage they fell by 10 at Lincoln last

   week, a major negative sign against that class of opponent. TEXAS 43-21.

   Brigham Young over Air Force* by 14

   Although the standings will make it look like this is a showdown with major meaning

   in the Mountain West, there is a gap between these teams not reflected in those

   charts, nor by this line. The Falcons have earned a bowl spot by playing the bottom

   of the league first, and in their only step-up they were beaten much worse than

   the 30-23 scoreboard result showed against Utah (first downs were 24-9 and total

   offense 440-191). Now they face what has become a most awkward matchup, with

   the Cougars on a 3-0 SU and ATS series run under Bronco Mendenhall, topping

   the pointspreads by a combined 37.5 points, with a combination of both talent

   and tactics. Mendenhall has done an outstanding job of having his team prepared

   for those option schemes, while Max Hall has been able to pick apart a slow Air

   Force secondary. We do not see either of those elements changing this time, and a

   Brigham Young program that has won the last two trips to Colorado Springs by 19

   and 17 points takes the field with a lot of confidence. B.Y.U. 31-17.

   Nevada* over San Jose State by 24

   As we get deeper into November, the play in the trenches carries more weight in

   determining outcomes, as smaller bodies begin to grow weary. That makes this one

   an absolute natural, because November can really be November in Reno. Chris

   Ault’s Wolfpack have mashed their W.A.C. brethren at the line of scrimmage,

   rolling to a stunning advantage of 2,085-401 in rushing yards through five games,

   and note that in their last game before conference play started they trounced

   U.N.L.V. 444-54 in that category. There is not a sign of fatigue to be found anywhere,

   having had a bye two weeks ago, and getting an extra day to prepare for this

   one after Friday’s rout at Fresno State, and that means a chance to be at their very

   best, in a category where the Spartans can be beaten. Dick Tomey’s side plays solid

   tactical pass defense but they are nothing special in the trenches, and their own

   offense can not control the ball long enough to keep Colin Kaepernick & Co. off

   the field, which means the State defense eventually wears out. NEVADA 41-17.

   Nebraska over Kansas State* by 15

   We have a classic case of two programs heading in opposite directions here, with

   Bo Pelini clinching a winning season in his first campaign with the Cornhuskers if

   he can take this one, while the first game in front of the Manhattan fans under his

   lame-duck status will be awkward for Ron Prince. Of course, many of the Wildcat

   fans will ease the awkwardness by not showing up. Prince should resurface as an

   assistant next season, and should be successful in that role, but he failed to bring

   discipline to the State program, and the short-term fix of bringing in so many JuCo

   transfers on defense has been nothing short of a disaster. Although the

   Cornhuskers took an early haymaker at Oklahoma on the Big 12 road, their other

   outings were a 35-7 domination of Iowa State, and a 37-31 overtime loss at Texas

   Tech, which looks better and better as the weeks go by. Joe Ganz absolutely had his

   way with the Wildcats in a 73-31 rout LY (the Cornhuskers had 702 yards), and

   he leads a balanced attack that can exploit this defense again. NEBRASKA 38-23.

   *CLOSE CALLS

   Ball State over Miami O.* by 13 (Tuesday)

   Our handicap is handicapped by not having access to the Ball State result vs.

   Northern Illinois in the game that precedes this, and Miami’s game at Buffalo. So

   we let overall strength be the only guide for now. BALL STATE 29-16.

   Kent State* over Temple by 1 (Wednesday)

   With over half of the Temple games being decided in the final seconds this season,

   we call for yet another that goes to the wire, with the better skill people of the host

   getting the slight nod over the far superior defense. KENT STATE 23-22.

   Central Michigan over No. Illinois* by 3 (Wednesday)

   The Chippewas are a perfect 6-0 SU on the M.A.C. road the past two seasons,

   some of that coming from the “toughening up” process of playing at Georgia,

   Indiana, Purdue, Kansas and Clemson in that span. CENT MICHIGAN 26-23.

   Akron* over Buffalo by 1 (Thursday)

   The lay-out of the Zips schedule has them in a position to be fresh for a stretch

   run, and with over 200 yards both running and passing in their last two games the

   offense brings a balance previously missing. AKRON 31-30.

   Miami F.* over Virginia Tech by 3 (Thursday)

   Was that break-out game by Darren Evans (253 yards rushing) finally the catalyst

   that Virginia Tech needs offensively? Or does that make him a marked man for a

   defense that got to sit back and watch? MIAMI 20-17.

   U.N.L.V.* over Wyoming by 3 (Thursday)

   The Cowboys may be doing just enough right now to get Joe Glenn another look

   next season, but Knoxville is a long way from Laramie, and that makes a second

   short trip a real test of their stamina. U.N.L.V. 27-23.

   Cincinnati over Louisville* by 3 (Friday)

   At another time we would consider this price cheap for a Bearcat team that is superior

   in so many aspects of the game, but getting extended to overtime at

   Morgantown makes this short practice week even shorter. CINCINNATI 26-23.

   Penn State* over Indiana by 30

   Having had their big dreams shattered this becomes a major flat spot for the

   Nittany Lions. But as we wrote near the top of the page last week, the Hoosier

   defense is gassed. PENN STATE 44-14.

   Iowa* over Purdue by 14

   The Joe Tiller farewell tour has been awfully good to us, and once again we expect

   a flat effort here, as they save the remaining fuel for Indiana at home next week.

   But could the Hawkeyes be just a little too flat to take advantage? IOWA 30-16.

   Michigan* over Northwestern by 5

   Northwestern is playing with precious little experience at RB right now, which

   makes the offense awfully easy to defend. And the Wolverines would like to leave

   their home fans with one last positive taste. MICHIGAN 24-19.

   Wake Forest over N. C. State* by 3

   The Wolfpack finally broke through for a confidence-boosting win at Duke after

   a series of A.C.C. near-misses, and we continue to be impressed with the development

   of Russell Wilson. But year in and year out, Jim Grobe wins this type of setting.

   WAKE FOREST 23-20.

   Clemson* over Duke by 7

   Tigers are not exactly the kind of fundamentally-sound side you want when laying

   points – in three games since Tommy Bowden and offensive coordinator Rob

   Spence were fired they have turned the ball over 12 times, with two of them

   returned directly for TD’s. CLEMSON 27-20.

   Maryland* over North Carolina by 3

   Tar Heels continue to make up for a lack of offensive punch by making plays on

   defense (18 INTs), but that is not a recipe for road success. MARYLAND 22-19.

   Navy over Notre Dame by 1 (Baltimore)

   We are told that a week off means a fully healthy Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada at

   QB for Navy, which adds some elements that the offense has not been able to show,

   and makes it as tough for Notre Dame to make stops as it is to pronounce his

   name. NAVY 25-24.

   Alabama* over Mississippi State by 22

   Sylvester Croom has to face the wrath of Nick Saban and the Tide after stealing a

   17-12 win in Starkville last year, and if the Bulldogs could not get their power

   ground game going against lesser foes, it means no chance here. ALABAMA 31-9.

   Kentucky* over Vanderbilt by 4

   The Wildcats are showing an ability to make plays with Randall Cobb at QB that

   has been lacking earlier. Bobby Johnson has no such catalyst for his punchless

   offense. KENTUCKY 24-20.

   Baylor* over Texas A&M by 7

   Though it is rare to see the Bears in this role, note that in Robert Griffin’s three

   home starts they are 2-1 SU and 3-0 ATS, beating the spread by a combined 41.5

   points. In their last, they let it all hang out vs. a listless foe. BAYLOR 34-27.

   Colorado State* over New Mexico by 4

   Playing for the 12th time in as many weeks, and having to take to the road for the

   second straight game, could have these Lobos rather weary in the late stages, especially

   with no bowl hopes to keep them interested. COLORADO STATE 31-27.

   Western Michigan* over Toledo by 19

   We have been able to get back-to-back wins from these Broncos near the top of the

   page the last two weeks, but the Tom Amstutz resignation, and ensuing Toledo

   implosion at Akron, sends this one into too high of a line range. WESTERN

   MICHIGAN 40-21.

   Louisiana Tech* over Utah State by 17

   That outstanding defensive showing at San Jose last week now means that the

   Bulldogs can begin hearing the bowl phones ring if they take care of business here.

   Aggies are a listless bunch that can wear down this far away from home.

   LOUISIANA TECH 31-14.

   East Carolina over Southern Miss* by 2

   Skip Holtz got away from his QB platoon last week and made it the Patrick

   Pinkney show, but the end result was yet another sluggish performance. But the

   defensive edge still brings this one in. EAST CAROLINA 24-22.

   Tulane* over U.A.B. by 8

   Blazers have only played once in the last three weeks, but that was a horrific 70-14

   drubbing at Southern Miss. So while some might say “physically fresh”, we counter

   with “mentally disinterested”. TULANE 28-20.

   Missouri over Iowa State* by 21

   Tigers have to regain some emotion after so many key seniors played for the last

   time in Columbia on Saturday, but with next week off at least there is no distraction

   looming ahead. MISSOURI 42-21.

   Oregon State* over California by 4

   Sean Canfield showed enough polish last week that we can probably consider him

   an “entry” with Lyle Moevao right now, or perhaps he even gets elevated to an ingame

   platoon by Mike Riley, which means some different looks for opposing

   defenses. OREGON STATE 27-23.

   Oregon* over Arizona by 9

   Note that the Arizona defense was not as bad as the scoreboard showed at

   Washington State (only allowed 12 first downs and 208 yards), but an undersized

   DL will struggle to get push here, and you can not slow down the Duck ground

   game without at least forcing some action in the trenches. OREGON 33-24.

   U.C.L.A. over Washington* by 10

   Rick Neuheisel coaches on this field for the first time, on the same day that Tyrone

   Willingham works these sidelines for the last time. But it is hard to be convinced

   that the Huskies can turn the latter into any kind of rallying cry. U.C.L.A. 30-20.

   Georgia over Auburn* by 7

   Bulldogs will be playing their fourth straight game away from Athens, which can

   mean fatigue problems in the latter stages, and since depth in the trenches has been

   an issue all season, it could be an ATS factor here, if not enough for Auburn to

   compete outright. GEORGIA 26-19.

   Florida* over South Carolina by 17

   Steve Spurrier is a solid 7-2-1 ATS as an S.E.C. road underdog, and brings the better

   defense to the field. But that only keeps the Gamecocks into the hunt for

   awhile; their inability to control the ball themselves eventually has them wearing

   out in the latter stages. FLORIDA 33-16.

   Marshall* over Central Florida by 8

   The Golden Knights are averaging 15.8 points per game in Conference USA play,

   almost unheard-of in a league that features some of the worst defensive play in the

   nation. We cannot see anything that they can build on. MARSHALL 27-19.

   Boise State over Idaho* by 37

   Indirectly, Utah’s win over T.C.U. puts added pressure on Boise to avoid cruise

   control – one at-large unbeaten team can find their way into the BCS picture, but

   that frame may not be large enough to hold two. And Bronco fans will outnumber

   Vandal fans here. BOISE STATE 49-12.

   Tulsa over Houston* by 6

   A week off after the Arkansas loss should help the Golden Hurricanes to re-set their

   targets, and note that even in losing that one they put up 528 yards on the road

   against an S.E.C. defense. TULSA 41-35.

   Fresno State* over New Mexico State by 15

   It is last home game time for the Bulldogs in what has turned into a most disappointing

   campaign, and their defense does not look capable of locking the backdoor

   against Chase Holbrook. FRESNO STATE 42-27.

   Southern Cal over Stanford* by 25

   The Trojans covered the spread by 19 points in routing Oregon in their only Pac

   10 revenge affair so far this season. Now it is time to even the score off of the most

   embarrassing loss of the Pete Carroll era. SOUTHERN CAL 34-9.

   Oklahoma State over Colorado* by 14

   Cody Hawkins may have played his way back into the Buffalo starting QB job

   with the four second-half TD passes to beat Iowa State, but now he is back in

   against a strong pass rush again, which means that his previous negatives could also

   become visible again. OKLAHOMA STATE 34-20.

   South Florida* over Rutgers by 6

   The Bulls have had two weeks to do some soul-searching off of back-to-back Big

   East losses, and it continues a rather dubious pattern for Jim Leavitt’s squad – they

   have been favored in their last 15 lined games, but lost seven of them outright.

   SOUTH FLORIDA 27-21.

   Florida State* over Boston College by 6

   The edge in team speed can make a big difference over the course of 60 minutes,

   as the Seminoles turn likely Eagle mistakes (we are not enamored with Chris Crane

   on the road vs. this defense) into game-turning scores. FLORIDA STATE 29-23.

   Ohio State over Illinois* by 12

   We began to see the coming of age for Terrelle Pryor at Northwestern last week,

   and that momentum carries over here, especially with his teammates bringing a

   revenge motive from that 28-21 home loss last year. OHIO STATE 29-17.

   Utah over San Diego State* by 29

   The Aztecs have allowed every Mountain West opponent to roll for at least 35

   points and at least 400 yards, but the Utes are not interested in piling up numbers

   here – just get the ‘W’, and then begin thinking about next week’s showdown with

   Brigham Young. UTAH 42-13.

   U.T.E.P.* over S.M.U. by 8

   June Jones is having to shuffle his inexperienced QB’s because of injury, but he has

   to enjoy the breathing room that Conference USA defenses allow; particularly this

   one. U.T.E.P. 38-30.

   Arizona State* over Washington State by 42

   While others have taken it easy on the downtrodden Cougars, Dennis Erickson’s

   Sun Devils have lost their last three home games, and are off next. That means a

   chance to vent some frustrations, while the visitors save their few remaining

   crumbs for next week’s Apple Bowl vs. Washington,which they have to believe they

   have a chance in. ARIZONA STATE 49-7.

   Middle Tennessee over Western Kentucky* by 3

   Blue Raiders lost 20-17 at home to the Hilltoppers last year, despite a +3 turnover

   advantage. Of course, that kind of result also tells us that the talent gap is such that

   revenge is anything but automatic. MIDDLE TENNESSEE 27-24.

   Florida Atlantic* over Louisiana by 3

   Having had a bye, and a walkover vs. North Texas, in the last two games, the Owl

   defense brings the freshness that is needed to cope with the Cajun ground game.

   And if you slow that aspect down, they have little else. F.A.U. 27-24.

   Mississippi* over UL-Monroe by 16

   Yes, the Rebels come off of a bye week. But while that makes them the fresher side,

   is there too much of a distraction with L.S.U. on deck, a game they know that they

   are capable of winning this season? MISSISSIPPI 38-22.

   L.S.U.* over Troy by 16

   It has been a long time since the Tigers have played a game this late in the season

   that meant so little. Let’s see what kind of motivator Les Miles can be for such a

   setting. L.S.U. 33-17.

   Northern Illinois over Kent State* by 6 (Tuesday)

   We are handicapped here because of the lack of the mid-week results for both of

   these teams after we went to press, but the Huskies have already played five road

   games against tougher opponents than these Golden Flashes, so they can handle

   this minimal crowd. NORTHERN ILLINOIS 27-21.

   Central Michigan* over Ball State by 1 (Wednesday)

   It is hard to envision Ball State having lost at Miami O. the previous Tuesday,

   which keeps the unbeaten run going, but also makes this a huge opportunity for a

   home team that has a lot of weapons, which were most evident in their 58-38 win

   at Muncie last year. C.M.U. 28-27.

   __________________

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 2:55pm
6. 0 likes

   WINNING POINTS

   ****BEST BET

   *Jacksonville over Tennessee by 20

   Even the Tennessee players are admitting it.The Titans are not going to go

   unbeaten this season.At some point they are going to lose.This is that time.

   While the Titans have been one of the most surprising team, the Jaguars

   have been one of the most disappointing. Plagued early by offensive line

   injuries, the Jaguars have underachieved in losing five games.The Jaguars’

   offensive line is playing better now, Maurice Jones-Drew is back to being a

   force on the ground and the defense has picked up their intensity after

   coach Jack Del Rio disciplined star linebacker Mike Peterson.The Jaguars

   have always been a physical club under Del Rio. That’s what’s needed to

   beat Tennessee.Keep in mind the Jaguars’ five losses have been by an average

   of 4.8 points.The Jaguars have the same smash mouth mentality as the

   Titans, which is run the ball, stop the run and win the field position battle.

   The Titans had yet to throw for 200 yards this season until facing the Bears

   last week. The Jaguars have an edge at quarterback with multi-purpose

   David Garrard as opposed to over-the-hill game-manager Kerry Collins,who

   no longer can throw accurate downfield passes. The Titans also could be

   without star pass rusher Kyle Vanden Bosch. He missed last week’s game

   with a groin injury.This is Jacksonville’s season.The Jaguars will be pumped

   sky-high for this intense division rivalry match. The Titans are off three

   straight tough games, defeating Indianapolis on Monday night, sneaking

   past Green Bay in overtime despite surrendering 390 yards in regulation

   and beating the Bears on the road this past Sunday.The Titans don’t have

   the talent to keep this impossible pace up. JACKSONVILLE 30-10.

   ***BEST BET

   Dallas over *Washington by 16

   So much has changed since Week 4 when the Redskins started the

   Cowboys’ downfall by upsetting them as double-digit road underdogs.

   Since then Dallas has managed to cover just once. Both teams are off byes.

   Neither can really take a loss in the ultra-competitive NFC East Division. It’s

   our strong feeling, the Cowboys bounce back in a strong way with the

   expected return of star quarterback Tony Romo. His being out had a trickle

   down negative vibe that hit the entire team exposing Dallas’ deficiencies

   at backup quarterback with washed-up Brad Johnson and ineffective journeyman

   Brook Bollinger.With those two quarterbacks, primarily Johnson,

   Dallas couldn’t break 14 points in games against St. Louis,Tampa Bay and

   the New York Giants.The Cowboys were 4-2 when Romo started, averaging

   29.2 points and 401.8 yards. In Johnson’s three starts, the Cowboys averaged

   13.7 points and 232 yards.They went 1-2 because they were able to

   hold off a good Tampa Bay team at home, 13-9, behind a stellar defensive

   effort. Romo makes a huge difference. His presence should put the bounce

   back in Dallas’ step and give the Cowboys their swagger back not to mention

   make Terrell Owens a factor again and keep defenses from stacking the

   line against star running back Marion Barber. Romo’s return also pumps up

   the defense. Take away a 25-point effort versus the winless Lions and

   Washington is averaging 12.3 points in its last three games. The Redskins

   also have injuries on defense. Shawn Springs, the team’s top cornerback,

   and pass-rusher supreme Jason Taylor have both missed the last couple of

   contests. It’s not time to write the Cowboys off. DALLAS 30-14.

   **PREFERRED

   *CLOSE CALLS

   *Atlanta over Denver by 15

   This is more than a battle of young quarterbacks, Jay Cutler and Matt Ryan.

   The Falcons have the ability with Michael Turner to control the ball and

   take advantage of Denver’s beat-up defense.The Broncos are forced to be a

   one-dimensional throwing team because all of their main running backs are

   injured. Michael Pittman and Ryan Torain are out for the season. Fourthstring

   Peyton Hills is about the only running back left standing for Denver.

   Only once since Week 3 have the Broncos scored more than 19 points. It’s

   asking too much of Cutler to carry a team with no ground attack and a

   porous defense.The Broncos are small, slow and injury-racked on defense.

   They might get star cornerback Champ Bailey (check status) back, but their

   starting linebackers are composed of reserves. The loss of leading tackler

   D.J.Williams is a big blow to Denver’s already staggering defense that has

   surrendered at least 30 points in more than half of its games.The Falcons

   should have little difficulty establishing the line of scrimmage. Denver is

   going to have trouble stopping Turner, a big physical, strong running back.

   The Falcons have covered in each of their last five home games.They are

   averaging 32 points in four home contests this season.ATLANTA 32-17.

   *Green Bay over Chicago by 15

   Rex Grossman is about as popular in Chicago as Steve Bartman.The Bears

   are 2-7 the last nine times he started. Chicago lacks confidence and swagger

   with Grossman.The Packers are desperate for a victory. Don’t be fooled

   by the Packers being a .500 team. Their talent is much better. During the

   Packers’ losses they led Dallas in the second quarter, led Tampa Bay with

   less than three minutes,were tied with Atlanta in the middle of the fourth

   period, took undefeated Tennessee to overtime and led Minnesota last

   week with less than three minutes before losing when Mason Crosby

   missed a last-second field goal.The Bears’ vulnerable secondary is an inviting

   target for Aaron Rodgers. Last week,Kerry Collins had his first 200-yard

   passing game throwing for nearly 300 yards and two touchdowns against

   Chicago.Greg Jennings can take advantage.Devin Hester has yet to bring a

   kickoff or punt back for a touchdown.Matt Forte has only had one 100-yard

   rushing game since opening week.Kyle Orton was Chicago’s first-half MVP,

   but he’s out with an ankle injury. Even if he were to play, he would be

   severely limited.The Bears don’t have what it takes to beat an aroused and

   due Packers team at Lambeau Field. GREEN BAY 29-14.

   *CLOSE CALLS

   *New England over New York Jets by 2 (Thursday)

   The Jets often don’t look pretty, but they have won five of their last six.

   New York’s underrated rush defense has held four foes under 50 yards rushing.

   The Jets are 5-0 when limiting opponents to less than 100 yards on the

   ground.The Patriots lost Laurence Maroney for the season and have been

   without their next two best running backs, Sammy Morris (check status)

   and LaMont Jordan (check status). The Patriots still know how to play

   defense.They defeated the Jets, 19-10, in Week 2 during Matt Cassel’s first

   start. Cassel has improved since then.The Jets are 4-9 versus winning teams

   under Eric Mangini. NEW ENGLAND 21-19.

   *Miami over Oakland by 9

   Al Davis’ Raiders have a unique capacity for turning talent into junk.The

   Raiders have no passing attack no matter what stiff lines up behind center.

   The Raiders have dropped 37 of 44 away contests since 2003.A cross-country

   flight with an early start time isn’t a plus either for Oakland. Teams

   going from West to East this season have yet to win in 13 games and are 3-

   9-1 ATS. Bill Parcells has installed a toughness in Miami that clearly was lacking

   last season.The problem is laying this big of a point spread.Double-digit

   favorites were 2-14 ATS going into Monday night. MIAMI 23-14.

   *New York Giants over Baltimore by 4

   Strength versus strength.The Giants are the best running the ball, while the

   Ravens have the stingiest rush defense. Despite four consecutive victories

   and an improving Joe Flacco at quarterback, the Ravens still get undervalued.

   This is their fifth road game in six weeks,however, so the Giants might

   be able to wear them down with their physical style. It is not the best of

   situations for the Giants either.New York is off back-to-back games against

   division rivals Dallas and Philadelphia.The key is if the Ravens can use their

   three-headed rushing attack to effectively allow Flacco to pick his spots

   against a Giants secondary that can be inviting. NY GIANTS 14-10.

   *Indianapolis over Houston by 11

   Indianapolis has beaten Houston 12 out of 13 career times, but is just 7-6

   ATS. This is only Houston’s second away matchup in seven weeks. The

   Texans have captured just one of their last 11 road games because their

   lines aren’t physical and their secondary lacks speed and playmakers. So

   look for another big performance from Peyton Manning, who is getting his

   timing down as his offensive line keeps improving. Joseph Addai should be

   effective, too, since the Texans don’t have a very good run defense either.

   The Colts came from 17 points down in the fourth quarter to win and

   cover against the Texans in Week 5. INDIANAPOLIS 37-26.

   Philadelphia over *Cincinnati by 5

   This is a tricky spot for the Eagles as they just played a marquee Sunday

   night matchup against division-leading Giants.This is the only time in a fiveweek

   period the Eagles draw a team with a losing mark.The rested Bengals

   should be loose with their confidence raised. They entered their bye off

   their first win, upsetting Jacksonville at home. Backup quarterback Ryan

   Fitzpatrick is getting more comfortable operating Cincy’s offense and

   Cedric Benson is providing a semblance of a ground attack that has been

   non-existence. There’s a possibility Carson Palmer (check status) could

   return from his elbow injury. PHILADELPHIA 24-19.

   New Orleans over *Kansas City by 3

   What’s gotten into Herm Edwards? The ultra-conservative Kansas City

   coach is using a variation of a spread offense, letting third-string quarterback

   Tyler Thigpen sling it all over the field and even going for two-points

   trying to win a game rather than go into overtime. Drew Brees should light

   up a rookie Chiefs cornerback duo, but this isn’t the easy matchup the

   Saints may have been anticipating. The Saints haven’t visited Arrowhead

   Stadium since 1997.Weather could be a concern for New Orleans. The

   Saints are anticipating getting back Reggie Bush (check status). NEW

   ORLEANS 31-28.

   *Carolina over Detroit by 16

   Daunte Culpepper? Has it gotten this bad for Detroit? Yes as a matter of

   fact.The losing streak is up to 10 and the win tally is one in the Lions’ last

   17 games. The Panthers showed last week they can still win and cover a

   spread even if Jake Delhomme throws four interceptions. Carolina’s

   defense and special teams are that strong. Culpepper hadn’t started a game

   in more than a year until last week. He’s still going to be rusty and will be

   slower on grass instead of his normal artificial turf. The Panthers should

   have no problem wearing down Detroit with DeAngelo Williams and

   Jonathan Stewart on the ground while Steve Smith makes big plays through

   the air. CAROLINA 28-12.

   *Tampa Bay over Minnesota by 8

   The rested Buccaneers off a bye should be able to handle the Vikings. It has

   been 11 years since Minnesota last won in the state of Florida.The Vikings

   are on an off-surface and in a letdown spot after pulling out a hard-earned

   victory at home last week against division rival Green Bay.Tampa Bay’s wellcoached

   defense figures to key on Adrian Peterson knowing recycled Gus

   Frerotte and his weak corps of wideouts can’t cause major damage. Jeff

   Garcia has thrown for 876 yards in his last three games for the Bucs. Keep

   an eye on the status of banged-up Tampa Bay running backs Earnest

   Graham and Warrick Dunn.TAMPA BAY 24-16.

   *San Francisco over St. Louis by 6

   The luster of Jim Haslett has worn off.The Rams have dropped three in a

   row since upsetting the Redskins and Cowboys. Neither team has enough

   talent on both sides of the ball to really overachieve. Home attendance is

   down for San Francisco. It’s a short week, too, for the 49ers off their

   Monday division game against Arizona. But the Rams are traveling to the

   West Coast after having been on the East Coast last week in their 47-3

   embarrassing loss to the Jets. St. Louis only has broken the 20-point barrier

   once.The Rams desperately need Steven Jackson (check status) back from

   his thigh injury.The 49ers have covered six of the last seven in the series.

   SAN FRANCISCO 26-20.

   Arizona over *Seattle by 2

   The Seahawks’ five-game home winning streak against the Cardinals is in

   jeopardy. Seattle has lost five of its last six games.That could turn around if

   Matt Hasselbeck (check status) is able to start. He’s missed the past five

   games. The Seahawks also have been without their most talented wide

   receiver Deion Branch (check status) and top pass rusher Patrick Kerney

   (check status). Given all their weapons, Seattle could be dangerous in this

   spot catching the Cardinals traveling off a rare Monday night home appearance.

   Kurt Warner entered Monday’s matchup against the 49ers on pace to

   throw for 4,862 yards.ARIZONA 25-23.

   *Pittsburgh over San Diego by 7

   The Chargers haven’t been very good out of their time zone losing at

   Buffalo, Miami and in London to New Orleans. They’ll be bucking a

   Pittsburgh defense that entering Week 10 ranked first in fewest yards, second-

   fewest points allowed and was No. 1 in sacks. The Steelers hadn’t

   allowed more than 21 points until the Colts put up 24 last Sunday.They still

   haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher, bad news for LaDainian Tomlinson.The

   Steelers are hoping to get back Willie Parker (check status) and tight end

   Heath Miller (check status). San Diego’s defense already looks improved

   with Ron Rivera replacing Ted Cottrell as defensive coordinator. PITTSBURGH

   23-16.

   *Buffalo over Cleveland by 6 (Monday)

   The Browns have been disappointing from the beginning. The Bills have

   turned that way dropping AFC East Division games in each of the past three

   weeks. Injuries to two of their best defensive players, pass rusher Aaron

   Schobel (check status) and safety Donte Whitner (check status) sure

   haven’t helped the Bills. Buffalo only has four sacks in its last five games.

   Schobel has missed the past four games. Lack of a pass rush and ground

   game have damaged Buffalo. Brady Quinn looked good in his first start but

   is on the road and up against a better defense than Denver’s.The Bills are

   13-7 ATS at home under Dick Jauron. BUFFALO 23-17.

   OVER/UNDER

   **OVER: Houston at Indianapolis – The Texans are 21-8-1 to the

   ‘over’ in their last 30 with the last seven in this series going ‘over.’

   UNDER: Baltimore at New York – Two solid defenses go at it in possible

   bad weather conditions with the Ravens starting a rookie QB.

   OVER: New Orleans at Kansas City – A couple of vulnerable secondaries

   faces a pair of hot quarterbacks, Drew Brees and Tyler Thigpen

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 2:55pm
7. 0 likes

   THE SPORTS REPORTER

   SUPER BEST BET

   *UTEP over SMU by 30

   The best thing that can happen to the UTEP defense is to be facing an offense which

   moves backwards after the snap 70% of the time. SMU’s penchant for passing means

   they have to drop back and then sling the ball forward, relying on somebody to catch it

   in order to move chains and maintain possessions. The Mustangs haven’t been doing a

   good enough job of that, with only 57.2 offensive snaps per game (the fewest in the

   nation), and 2.7 offensive turnovers per game (bottom five ranking). With five defensive

   backs in the UTEP secondary, the odds of somebody standing there and getting hit with

   a throw by the SMU quarterback are pretty good, especially since the QB who had thrown

   330 of the team’s first 352 passes was injured and left last Saturday’s game. UTEP’s

   offense has been taking better care of the ball, and eating a lot more clock against

   defenses better than SMU’s. The Miners have kept the football for 32:55 per game, vs.

   SMU’s 26:27. SMU’s defensive third down conversion rate of 58% is the worst in the

   nation. Given the talent level on the unit, the offensive competence of the opponent and

   the time of the season, SMU’s “get off the field rate” does not figure to improve at this

   point. UTEP, 50-20.

   BEST BET

   *CLEMSON over DUKE by 23

   The lack of depth is starting to show on the Blue Devils, who have lost four of five. David

   Cutcliffe is an excellent coach, but it’s tough to man the ship with inferior athletes for

   three months. The Tigers haven’t had much go right this season and will be salivating at

   the chance to get it rolling on offense. The worst defense they’ve faced in the past three

   weeks was ranked in the top 15 nationally in total defense, so mama will forgive them if

   they lick the plate this week. The tailback tandem of Spiller and Davis can still hit big

   plays and the new coaching staff is throwing the ball down field – not exactly what the

   Dukies want to see. Against FSU last week Clemson racked up 22 first downs, but converted

   only 2-of-15 on third down. Tells you that they were able to move the football on

   first and second against a good D. Defensively the South Carolinians should be able to

   slow the North Carolinians with a pass defense that ranks in the top 25. The Devils

   offense just doesn’t move it on the ground. Don’t forget its homecoming week in

   Clemson this week. First step towards getting the head coaching nod for interim chief

   Dabo Sweeney is to please the homecoming crowd. What better way to do that then to

   fill their coffers with a cover. CLEMSON, 37-14.

   BEST BET

   *AUBURN over GEORGIA by 5

   The Georgia defense folded like a tent last week in Lexington – lucky for them the

   offense bailed them out. Defensive coordinator Willie Martinez can’t seem to find the

   right combo of players and schemes. The Tigers’ QB Kodi Burns is a mobile kid who is

   starting to get comfortable with the ball in his hands. He is not yet “there” throwing it,

   but neither is Kentucky QB Cobb and he moved the offense vs. Georgia just fine. The

   Georgia offense is clicking behind three legit play-makers – Stafford, Moreno, and Green

   – but the offensive line is thinning out by the minute and Auburn’s speedy defenders

   should have success slowing the trio. Bad losses to UGA in the “South’s Oldest Rivalry”

   will fuel the Auburn fire, while the Dawgs’ desire last week couldn’t light a birthday candle.

   A 12:30 non-primetime time slot won’t help the visiting coaches’ motivational cause.

   AUBURN, 28-23.

   BEST BET

   TULSA over *HOUSTON by 20

   Tulsa has 31 sacks, just behind TCU and Texas, just ahead of Oklahoma and Illinois. When

   a team’s offense does as good a job of moving forward as Tulsa’s does, having a defense

   making tackles for losses makes that team a much bigger obstacle for opponents to

   overcome. Houston’s QB Case Keenum is Mr. Big Passing Yardage, and that’s just fine.

   Let him have his 300 yards, which in this case could be a product of many 2nd-andlongs

   or 3rd-and-longs, and too many passes without run support after Tulsa powers to

   the lead behind an offensive line that should have its way with the match-up: 305-355-

   308-296-311 across, vs. 250-295-270-260 for Houston’s defensive linemen. "They

   came out and ran the ball well. There's not much you can say about that," said Houston

   senior defensive end Tate Stewart said after Marshall’s rushing attack tromped over

   them. "We have to be more physical up front." Playing against injury-depleted Tulane last

   Saturday made them look more physical than they were. Good luck, kid. You can’t grow

   that quickly. Tulsa’s offense is the better-balanced of the two with 254 rushing yards per

   game, and is set up to get their usual amount to control the proceedings. TULSA, 41-21.

   BEST BET

   *NEVADA over SAN JOSE STATE by 26

   Giving up rushing yards has become trendy for Dick Tomey’s Spartans. After allowing just

   two teams in the first seven games to hit double digits, they’ve surrendered 149, 220,

   and 217 rushing in the past three games. Enter one of the top rushing offenses in the

   country this week. Nevada QB Kaepernick’s athletic ability dwarfs any of the road team’s

   defensive 11 and his backfield partner in crime – RB Tuau – has breached the 100-yard

   mark in four straight. When the defense cheats up to stop the run, speedster WR Marko

   Mitchell will take SJSU to the house. Nevada has lost this year because their pass

   defense has been terrible. Tomey likes his QBs to play dink-and-dunk and doesn’t do

   much challenging. His starter – Cal transfer Reed – didn’t start last week due to injury

   but was forced into action after the backup played like a 5th stringer. Will he be healthy

   enough to be effective this week? Sure didn’t look like it. NEVADA, 43-17

   RECOMMENDED

   *LOUISIANA TECH over UTAH STATE by 3

   Despite the 49-14 score, Utah State was able to move the

   ball en route to 300+ yards against an excellent Boise State defense. Tough to overcome

   six turnovers, but La Tech won’t present quite the defensive challenge. If Brent Guy’s

   Aggies can hold on to the football, the Bulldogs don’t have enough offensive firepower to

   pull away. In fact, their QB play is consistently terrible each week and they must rely on

   an average running game to get it done. The visitors are not that strong vs. the run, but

   it’s always easier to stop when the passing game is as existent as the Tooth Fairy.

   LOUISIANA TECH, 26-23.

   RECOMMENDED

   EAST CAROLINA over *SOUTHERN MISS by 9

   East Carolina’s offense is struggling but Southern Miss’ defensive prowess should not be

   judged by last Saturday’s 6-point yield vs. the Central Florida Snails. Southern Miss’

   offense lines up fast and runs a lot of plays, but East Carolina’s defense is ready for those

   extra opportunities to make a pick-pick here and a pick-pick there to set up the offense

   for a win that gets them closer to clinching C-USA East and getting a spot in the conference

   title game. Southern Miss’ top two running backs are banged-up. Each missed last

   Saturday’s game, leaving QB Austin Davis as the team’s leading rusher. Depth on East

   Carolina’s defensive front seven is too good to allow Davis the freedom of movement as

   the offense’s main ingredient, and that depth is good enough and quick enough to play

   in space and limit either of the hobbled Southern Miss running backs should they return.

   EAST CAROLINA, 26-17.

   RECOMMENDED

   *FLORIDA over SOUTH CAROLINA by 14

   Spurrier’s defense has the chops to make this a battle.

   They rank #1 in the SEC on total defense, using a combination of power and speed.

   Florida has had their way offensively since the September 27 loss to Ole Miss – so we’ll

   see how they react when somebody hits ‘em back. Without a consistent running game,

   the South Carolina rotating QB’s will get constant pressure and must not turn it over. The

   Gators are #1 nationally in turnover margin, stealing from all and keeping the spoils to

   themselves. Close game at the half, with Tebow & Co. making plays when it counts. Keep

   an eye on any suspensions coming out of Carolina camp. A late game fight vs. Arkansas

   could cost some players some time. Given the Gators recent scoring barrage, players

   who really UNDERstand the matchup here can make some cash on a totals bet. FLORIDA,

   28-14.

   RECOMMENDED

   *MISSISSIPPI over LOUISIANA-MONROE by 30

   When the SEC team is serious and matches up well, the Sun Belt team is at a serious

   disadvantage. With a 5-4 record and two tough ones on deck – LSU and Mississippi State

   -- this SEC team called Ol’ Miss is serious. They are also the fresher side off a bye –

   which Alabama was prior to their home loss to the Monrovians last year. But the key difference

   many will overlook is that Alabama had been bowl-eligible (6 wins) for a month

   prior to losing to the Monrovians last season, and had the annual Auburn game on deck.

   That was a flat spot for Alabama. This is not a flat spot for Ol’ Miss. When a competent

   SEC team extends an invitation to an opponent whose defense is an equal opportunity

   member (200-200) of the 400 Yards Club, it can sit down for big bites of a nice, 3-hour

   lunch if it so desires. MISSISSIPPI, 39-9.

   TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11

   BALL STATE over *MIAMI OH by 15

   Wouldn’t touch this Miami OH team against an opponent that has a competent offense, and

   a defense that stiffens in the red zone and gets its share of turnovers. Not no way, not no

   how. BALL STATE, 31-16.

   WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

   *KENT STATE over TEMPLE by 1

   The day we give out “Temple” in a game with a short line is the day that QB Adam DiMichele

   gets carried away with himself and starts forcing it into a relatively competent Kent defense

   whose inept offense remembers to secure the football. Kent’s misdirection running game is

   a little different than most of the MAC rushing attacks that Temple’s defense has been able

   to contain. KENT STATE, 23-22.

   *NORTHERN ILLINOIS over CENTRAL MICHIGAN by 1

   Northern Illinois’ defense does a better job of tackling for losses and creating more difficult

   scenarios for the opposing offense. But guess which team leads the nation in yards per punt

   return, with 24.6 yards per return? It’s Central Michigan. If they make a stop or two on

   defense and get a big return or two, it could spell the difference eyeing Ball State next, for a

   biggie, makes them a little shaky here. NORTHERN ILLINOIS, 23-22.

   THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13

   *AKRON over BUFFALO by 4

   The teams are tied for first place in the MAC East, at 3-2. Playing big games away from home

   is not really Buffalo’s thing. Not yet, anyway. Turner Gill’s offense is nice and balanced and

   gets more points than it once did, but it’s not unstoppable and the defense can be had. Akron

   likes their own offense and enjoys pitting it against the lesser MAC defenses. If the Zips hang

   onto the football, they’ll be tough to beat. AKRON, 35-31.

   VIRGINIA TECH over *MIAMI-FL by 1

   Not interested in being in the path of the Beamer’s headlights when Virginia Tech’s goals of

   an ACC Coastal title, title-game berth and BCS Bowl are still alive. They’re young, but so is

   Miami. When the pressure is on, the Hokies are better at finding a way to turn the other side’s

   strength into a weakness. But if they don’t get their kick protection fixed, they will undermine

   their own talent and good coaching. VIRGINIA TECH, 23-22.

   *UNLV over WYOMING by 5

   Newbie QB warning: UNLV may still be forced to go with recently inserted freshman lefty

   Mike Clausen. Combined with their bad rush defense and the pressure of needing to win to

   stay on track for a bowl, they may not primed to play the home favorite role to perfection. As

   will be noted frequently, Wyoming is off a strange, road-to-road, late-season short week. But

   they can run the ball into UNLV’s defensive weakness, and their pick-prone quarterbacks are

   facing UNLV’s DBs that have intercepted only 5 passes all season. UNLV, 22-17.

   FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

   *LOUISVILLE over CINCINNATI by 1

   As Louisville’s offense gets bogged down late in the season, it is matched up against another

   very good defense. Cincinnati won’t make it easy for the Cardinals to wipe away the taste

   of last Saturday’s 41-7 defeat. But Cincinnati’s offense – with a so-so running game, thirdstring

   quarterback, only 16 first downs in three of the last four games and a terrible third

   down conversion rate of 21% over the last five games -- is being carried by the defense and

   special teams, units where Louisville has some playmakers, too. LOUISVILLE, 17-16.

   SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

   *PENN STATE over INDIANA by 34

   Indiana’s “bend but don’t break” defense is the anti-Iowa concept and will be welcomed by

   a Penn State offense that might have to purchase the Hoosier defensive 11 under the “you

   break it, you buy it” policy. Home team still has the Big 10 title in their scope and has too

   much to lose to misfire here. Lion offensive coaches will use this as a tune-up before next

   week ‘cause the defense is good enough to keep the bowl ineligible visitors from threatening.

   PENN STATE, 44-10.

   *IOWA over PURDUE by 13

   Do we have a post-goalpost teardown favorite? Yes we do. Too bad the road underdog is

   Purdue, a dead bowl team with a droopy defense and an offense whose Painter brush is dried

   up, and whose back-up is getting mugged on the job. Typical to project this as a flat spot for

   bowl-clinched Iowa, which is coming off celebrating the win against #3 Penn State. But

   Purdue is a flat, 2-7 SU opponent with its final home on deck vs. supposed archrival Indiana,

   the forthcoming sentimental journey for outgoing head coach Tiller. IOWA, 33-20.

   *MICHIGAN over NORTHWESTERN by 5

   Although losing in Ann Arbor to Northwestern for the first time since 1995 is probably on the

   list of things supposed to happen in Rich Rodriguez’ Year One at Michigan, you have to factor

   in that Northwestern’s top two running backs are injured and there is a ceiling on how

   much offense they can get from the decent legs and shaky arm of back-up QB Mike Kafka,

   or #1 QB C.J. Bacher without the good run support. MICHIGAN, 18-13.

   *WISCONSIN over MINNESOTA by 11

   Gophers have found their bowl prey while the Badgers are still on the hunt. Wisky has also

   found some offensive rhythm behind their cheese-eating o-line. They won’t roll up the rush

   yards against Minnesota like they did last week vs. Indiana, but this is a different team than

   what we saw just a few weeks ago. Without a running game, the road dog will be forced to

   throw it 65%+ and their best WR Decker is nursing a bum ankle. Kid had nabbed 37% of the

   team’s receptions heading into the Michigan game, but had just one catch last week and sat

   out the 2nd half. WISCONSIN, 28-17.

   WAKE FOREST over *NORTH CAROLINA STATE by 3

   Fake Wake has reverted back to Old Wake and a rushing overload the last two games. But

   they gained only 272 offensive yards beating Virginia last Saturday. The +3 Turnover Ratio

   was the key. QB Russell Wilson has a 8-1 TD-INT Ratio for NC State and if he negotiates the

   land mines in Wake’s secondary, the home dog can hang in there. WAKE FOREST, 23-20.

   *MARYLAND over NORTH CAROLINA by 3

   If something is within Maryland’s grasp, like an ACC division title, expect the Fabulous

   Friedgens to either blow it, or make it as difficult as possible to achieve. UNC coaches will

   get one glimpse of the Terps’ pipsqueak defensive front seven and immediately plan to hand

   it off 45 times to possibly power an ugly win, aided by what they hope will be defensive and

   special teams plays. Maryland will have two extra days to prepare… to worry about themselves

   but truth be told, losing at Virginia Tech was not a big deal as long as they find a way

   to handle the Tar Heels and Florida State coming up on this field. MARYLAND, 20-17.

   NOTRE DAME over *NAVY by 9

   Navy players are weird. They seem to do much better in revenge situations than if they beat

   a team the prior season, vs. when the opponent has revenge, as the Irish have. Navy’s

   defense cannot stop the pass. Notre Dame passes a lot. The Irish aren’t all that good at it,

   with Clausen flinging it and praying that somebody jumps up and catches it. But with Navy’s

   DBs a step slower than most of the opposing secondaries Notre Dame has faced to date,

   there figures to be some separation for a change. When Bryant plays quarterback for Navy

   instead of oft-injured Kaipo, Navy often looks more like Army. NOTRE DAME, 33-24.

   CONNECTICUT over *SYRACUSE by 9

   It’s a 16-in-the-box game as both defenses jam the box to stop the overly featured running

   backs Brown and Brinkley. Edge to UConn, with the more physical offensive line and a secondary

   better equipped to pick the opposing QB when he throws. But beware the special

   teams, where UConn has broken down and the joke called Syracuse will pop the occasional

   surprise because that’s about all they have going for them to try to offset the defense’s multiple

   Matador moments. CONNECTICUT, 22-13.

   *ALABAMA over MISSISSIPPI STATE by 17

   MSU coach Croom is a ’Bama guy and always has his kids ready to battle his alma mater.

   His team is somewhat of a carbon copy of the Tide’s, minus good talent and coaching.

   Saban’s crew is clinical and will do what they do best – run the football behind a great line

   and stop the other team from doing the same. It’s possible for the Bulldogs to hang in this

   one for a half if their offense doesn’t give Alabama short fields, but in a 60-minute bout, the

   heavyweight will eventually deliver a knockout blow. ALABAMA, 27-10.

   *KENTUCKY over VANDERBILT by 3

   Both offenses rely on their QBs and RBs to generate offense, as neither can throw it that well.

   The Wildcats once dead offense has been revived by a true freshman QB who looks to have

   all-SEC potential. That kid – Randall Cobb – must be accounted for and that opens up space

   for a good stable of backs. He is more dynamic than Vandy’s QB Adams and if he doesn’t

   make a ton of youth-based mistakes, his squad should send the visitors back to Nashville

   with their fifth straight loss. KENTUCKY, 20-17.

   *BAYLOR over TEXAS A&M by 8

   Art Briles’ Bear cubs prefer the comforts of their own den and the stats show it. The offense

   goes for 414 ypg in Waco compared to 310 per contest on the road. With just a few weeks

   before hibernation, they should be able to stock pile yardage against an A&M defense that

   gives up better than 6 yards per play. The best defenses in college football give up just over

   three. Dynamic QB Griffen should like the sound of that. BAYLOR, 35-27.

   NEW MEXICO over *COLORADO STATE by 2

   Dead Bowl Piece Bowl! New Mexico doesn’t do much offensively that the home team won’t

   expect. It’s just a matter of whether the Rams can withstand four quarters of being pounded

   between the tackles in mid-November by a pair of New Mexico 230-pound running backs

   whose space is cleared by a 299-321-315-310-325 offensive line. Obviously, this is no small

   matter. Getting off the field is not what Colorado State’s defense excels in. Opponents have

   converted 52% of third downs against them this season. The Lobos’ 3-3-5 defense is the

   first such system that Colorado State’s first-season starting QB Farris will face, and its looks

   and traps have confounded more than a few relatively inexperienced college QBs. NEW MEXICO,

   22-20.

   *WESTERN MICHIGAN over TOLEDO by 18

   Toledo is a sub-par rushing offense that manages less than 200 passing yards per game.

   Western Michigan has a sub-par rushing offense that makes up for it with 320 passing yards

   per game, but weather could limit the pass potential in this matchup. However, their rushing

   output could improve given the state of Toledo’s defensive line personnel, which isn’t very

   good. Toledo has also pushed the head coach out the door, so the higher-ups are well aware

   that being 3-0 ATS in the state of Michigan this season ‘twas merely a coinky-dink without

   merit for this one. The administration has seen some stuff they don’t like, and Toledo can’t

   make a bowl. Competing against an 8-win team in Kalamazoo is very iffy. WESTERN MICHIGAN,

   37-19.

   *TULANE over UAB by 1

   UAB was -6 turnovers in its most recent game, a 70-14 defeat vs. Southern Miss, which followed

   a bye week. This game follows a bye, too. Coach Callaway said he'll be doing things

   differently this week. But the key to a different, more pleasing result would be that the opponent

   is butt-dragging Tulane, who struggles offensively, and whose ton of injuries practically

   puts them on UAB’s short level in terms of number of available players. TULANE, 25-24.

   TEXAS over *KANSAS by 14

   Kansas was already torched at home vs. pass-oriented Texas Tech. The Horns are a bit more

   balanced but love to chuck it around with Heisman candidate QB McCoy. If the D can’t slow

   Texas – which they won’t – QB Reesing will be forced to keep pace through the air. That

   means that a solid pass rush will be able to strap on their track shoes and play “kill the man

   with the ball.” TEXAS, 38-24.

   MISSOURI over *IOWA STATE by 25

   The Cyclones’ pass defense functions more like a light breeze, allowing opponents to hit for

   over 9 yards per pass attempt. That basically means that they get beat on deep balls and

   can’t tackle on the short ones. Oh no matter, you’re just facing surgeon Chase Daniel and a

   slew of shifty/fast athletes this week. CU QB Hawkins threw for 226 yards and 4 TDs in the

   second half against ISU last week and the Buffs bring a cap gun to the Tigers Magnum 44.

   Mizzou brought their C-game last week and still managed to win 41-24 over K-State, a game

   that was 41-10 with 1:11 to play. Iowa State’s offense gets it going at times, but usually

   against bad defenses that allow 8-12 play drives. MISSOURI, 42-17.

   CALIFORNIA over *OREGON STATE by 2

   First, second, and third priority for Cal is to bottle up RB Jacquizz Rodgers. Without him driving

   the ground game, Mike Riley’s average QBs are exposed. The Bears are one of the better

   run defenses around and will force second-string QB Canfield to beat them. Last year’s

   sometimes starter has been good in the last two, but that was against very average defenses.

   CAL, 23-21.

   *OREGON over ARIZONA by 7

   Bob Stoops got his coveted sixth win last week and that could keep him out of the unemployment

   line. To get win #7 this week, his QB Tuitama is going to do the heavy lifting, as the

   Ducks are salty against the ground attack. That means putting the 4-year starter in harm’s

   way against a defense that ranks in the top 10 in sacks. Protection has been a problem at

   times for Stoops’ big boys and with two winnable home games remaining, keeping Tuitama

   injury-free may be the soup du jour. Oregon can flat-out run the football – we know that.

   Despite decent overall defensive stats, ’Zona gives up over 4 yards per pop on the ground

   and will be lucky to keep Masoli, Johnson, and Blount under 250 rushing yards. After keeping

   Stanford in the game by losing four fumbles, expect some serious ball-security drills this

   week in Eugene. OREGON, 34-27.

   UCLA over *WASHINGTON by 6

   How ineffective is the Bruin offense? They scored 28 points vs. Wazzu; no other Pac-10

   squad has posted less than 58. The Huskies actually have a chance to hang in there, not

   because of their ability, but because of their opponents lack thereof. Ty Willingham pulled out

   every gimmick in the playbook last week to no avail. Don’t be surprised to see the bearded

   lady or a seal on a unicycle this week. The circus act won’t work and eventually mistakes

   will lead to UW’s 10th loss in 10 tries. UCLA, 23-17.

   BYU over *AIR FORCE by 7

   All eyes are focused on BYU’s game with Utah next week, but first things first. Air Force’s

   triple option attack will give a young Cougars defense fits, but at least the coaching staff sees

   it every year. On the flip side, BYU runs an efficient offense that will have plenty of space to

   operate against hard working, but lesser athletes. Don’t expect defense to be the name of

   the game in Colorado Springs where an OVER abundance of scoring is likely. BYU, 41-34.

   *MARSHALL over CENTRAL FLORIDA by 10

   Trust the Blundering Herd laying points? Didn’t think so. The problem with Central Florida is

   that they have no offense. Every play is a struggle. They average 3.7 yards per offensive play,

   fewest in the nation. Less than winless Washington State. That kind of lousy production just

   wears on the defense as the season progresses. No bowl game in sight for the O’Learys, who

   might be radioactive at this point. MARSHALL, 20-10.

   BOISE STATE over *IDAHO by 30

   The Bronco defense has been more stout than a pint of Guinness this season and the poor

   Idaho offense struggles against the worst that the WAC has to offer. Not sure how much Boise

   coach Peterson wants to extend his starters on turf in this one, so once they’re up three

   scores look for the bench warmers to hit the field. Taking the favorite giving big numbers will

   seem like easy money – but we know there’s no such thing and unbeaten, Top 10 ranked

   Boise has much bigger things in mind than covering here. BOISE STATE, 41-11.

   *FRESNO STATE over NEW MEXICO STATE by 19

   Fresno’s d-line watches more people run past them than a border patrol agent. Good news

   this week as the pass-happy Aggies limp into central Cali. Pat Hill’s Bulldogs won’t have

   trouble scoring and should be able to keep NMSU at bay using an athletic secondary and stable

   linebacking corps. FRESNO STATE, 39-20.

   SOUTHERN CAL over *STANFORD by 21

   USC will move to 26-0 in November under Pete Carroll, but not without a physical fight. Jim

   Harbaugh’s future business leaders play a physical style of offense focusing on the ground

   game. Unfortunately for Jim – Carroll has better players that also prefer to take one folks

   head-on. Once the ground attack is neutralized, the Trojans will fly after inconsistent QB

   Pritchard and make him pay for throwing the game-winning TD pass last year. SOUTHERN

   CAL, 34-13.

   over *KANSAS STATE by 10

   Drop by a Manhattan, KS post office and you might find K-State’s season ’cause they’ve

   mailed it in. QB Freeman noted after last week’s loss to Missouri that coaching situation has

   been a distraction to the team. Of Missouri, DB Irvin noted that “if you don’t play every down,

   they’re going to make plays.” Hmmm, if Mizzou put up 41, how many downs didn’t you guys

   play? With a lame duck coach and a roster full of JUCO’s, this isn’t exactly a close-knit group.

   Nebraska enters each game knowing that they need to put up big points to ensure a win. The

   offense is solid and QB Ganz has his team firing as a unit right now. NEBRASKA, 38-28.

   OKLAHOMA STATE over *COLORADO by 17

   CU went to the 2-minute offense for the final 30 minutes against Iowa State last week. The

   result: 28 points. Given their offensive ineptitude this year, it won’t be surprising to see coach

   Hawkins try it out for 60 minutes this week. Doing so will put the ball in Okie State’s hands

   more often, which will lead to a bigger hole to dig out of for the home dog. The Buffs have

   been able to contain one-dimension offenses, but dynamic teams like the Cowboys usually

   have their way. OKLAHOMA STATE, 38-21.

   *SOUTH FLORIDA over RUTGERS by 4

   Rutgers has enjoyed the predicted revival from a slow start, but the overration called South

   Florida is waiting in the beach grass for them after suffering some shady business up North

   in last season’s meeting. The Bulls are home off two straight road losses. Both defenses sport

   solid third down conversion rates – 30% and 32% -- and neither offense has been able to

   sustain a good running game against good defenses. However, it’s getting late in the season,

   both d-lines are smallish and depth-shy, and the running backs might have more daylight

   than usual. Rutgers protects the immobile QB Teel very well. South Florida did not sack him

   in last season’s meeting and Rutgers tricks, special teams plays and penalty calls tilted that

   game Rutgers’ way 30-27. South Florida’s Rag-Arm QB Grothe escaped for 58 personal

   rushing yards in that defeat, and his rushing potential might make the difference. SOUTH

   FLORIDA, 27-23.

   *FLORIDA STATE over BOSTON COLLEGE by 8

   Neither team is really very good on offense, but both get it done in a big way on defense.

   When they collide FSU will be left standing, as they have more guys who can make plays.

   Whether its QB Ponder with his feet, RB Smith, or the WR’s on reverses and slants, the ‘Noles

   are a quick bunch that will break one or two for scores. FLORIDA STATE, 14-6.

   OHIO STATE over *ILLINOIS by 6

   The Buckeyes had one revenge game on the 2008 schedule. Here it is. You’re Ron Zook. You

   need to win either this game, or next week vs. Northwestern, to become bowl-eligible. No

   other coaches in the conference like you because they have openly questioned your recruiting

   tactics, and you represent this highly ranked opponent’s only Big Ten blemish from a year

   ago. While Ohio State’s Rose Bowl fate hinges on the eventual Michigan State-Penn State

   result, it would die early with a loss here. Illinois’ offensive line is banged-up (so is Ohio

   State’s), as is leading rusher Dufresne. Tressel allowed Pryor to toss it deep last Saturday but

   figures to be more conservative against this defense. OHIO STATE, 27-21.

   UTAH over *SAN DIEGO STATE by 27

   SDSU gave up only 104 rush yards against BYU, 189 less than the Aztec’s norm, last week

   and still got beat by 29. The big play will be there for Utah and the vet team will take advantage.

   Given the gravity of next week’s battle with BYU, the Utes will likely take it a bit light

   and enjoy the San Diego weather en route to an easy win. The cover? Well – if you like betting

   pre-season NFL games, siding with the Utes here is for you. UTAH, 44-17.

   *ARIZONA STATE over WASHINGTON STATE by 31

   ASU’s offense has gotten a bit healthier late in the season and their stats will experience that

   same after facing the Cougars. WSU has kept one conference team under 58 points, and

   while this will be the second, they won’t come close to winning. Why? Because they cannot

   run, tackle, throw, catch, or kick. You’ll be giving a huge number with an erratic Sun Devils

   team if you go that way – doesn’t sound like fun to us. ARIZONA STATE, 41-10.

   *WESTERN KENTUCKY over MIDDLE TENNESSEE by 1

   WKU’s inability to throw the ball won’t be too much of a problem against MTS, a quick, small

   defense with a sub-par third-down conversion rate that may not hold up to the home team’s

   61-39% Run-Pass split. Western Kentucky’s run defense has been rocked pretty good this

   season but catches a break in this match-up, with MTS rushing for only 89 yards per game.

   WESTERN KENTUCKY, 21-10.

   LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE over *FLORIDA ATLANTIC by 4

   At this stage of the season, FAU’s ability to stop a consistently productive rushing attack is

   highly questionable. The Lafalots aren’t much better at it, but FAU’s ground game is ordinary

   and the passing game gets too many incompletions, stopping the clock, netting a low thirddown

   conversion rate, and forcing its defense to absorb too much of a pounding in a matchup

   like this. LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE, 31-27.

   LSU* over TROY by 18

   Troy usually tries hard in games like this, but the Sun Belt title could rest in the outcome of

   their game vs. UL-Lafayette next Saturday, and the Sun Belt has three bowl tie-ins this season

   so they are already likely to get one whether they win next week or not. The ol’ incentive

   to compete with the best for 60 minutes may not exist this time. LSU, 28-10.

   TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18

   NORTHERN ILLINOIS over KENT STATE by 4

   The MAC doesn’t have enough bowl tie-ins for Northern Illinois to be comfortable about getting

   one, even with 6 wins. It’s Kent State’s final home game, for whatever that’s worth to

   them and their guaranteed losing record. Their national TV spotlight home game was last

   week vs. Temple. This one isn’t nationally televised. NORTHERN ILLINOIS, 20-16.

   WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

   *CENTRAL MICHIGAN over BALL STATE by 4

   Central Michigan can go score to score with the offensively potent, defensively suspect Ball

   boys, and has much more experience pointing to and playing in games that are pivotal to

   winning their conference. CENTRAL MICHIGAN, 31-27.

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 2:56pm
8. 0 likes

   THE GOLD SHEET

   KEY RELEASES

   VANDERBILT by 6 over Kentucky

   COLORADO STATE by 11 over New Mexico

   MARSHALL by 19 over Ucf

   TROY Plus over Lsu

   *Vanderbilt 23 - KENTUCKY 17—With number rising following last

   week’s disparate results, willing to take extra value with bowl-seeking Vandy

   (just one more win!), which is a profitable 14-3 last 17 as a road dog. Doubt

   Wildcats talented but raw frosh QB Cobb (only 105 YP vs. Georgia) steadily

   moves chains vs. fast, athletic ‘Dore defense (24 pts. or fewer in 8 of 9 TY),

   remarkably consistent until Florida debacle last week. Vandy’s now-healthy

   triggerman Nickson can take advantage of UK 2ndary possibly missing premier

   cover guy CB Lindley. CABLE TV—ESPN2

   (07-Ky. 27-VANDY 20...V.30-19 V.48/239 K.37/129 K.17/29/0/222 V.20/34/0/193 K.1 V.1)

   (07-Ky. -3' 27-20 06-KY. -2 38-26 05-Ky. +11' 48-43...SR: Kentucky 39-37-4)

   COLORADO STATE 28 - New Mexico 17—Now that NM is eliminated

   from bowl contention following depressing, come-from-ahead 27-20 loss at

   UNLV, favor upbeat, home-lovin’ CSU (5 straight covers in Fort Collins), which

   bitterly recalls LY’s last-second series loss. Have much more faith in Rams

   productive 6-3 sr. QB Farris (827 YP last 3 weeks) than Lobos RS frosh backup

   Gruner (only 11 of 25 for 128 vs. Rebels). Careful CSU has lost a mere 3

   fumbles, and RB G. Johnson III chomping at the bit after 172 YR vs. NM LY.

   (07-N. MEX. 26-Colo. St. 23...C.21-18 C.53/178 N.31/120 C.13/19/0/221 N.21/29/0/211 N.1 C.0)

   (07-UNM -9 26-23 06-Unm +6' 20-19 05-Csu +5' 35-25...SR: Colorado State 31-24)

   *MARSHALL 36 - Ucf 17—Usually not enamored of laying substantial

   points with Marshall side that’s found straight-up wins hard to come by in recent

   seasons. Still, eager to buck impotent UCF, as Knight offense hasn’t even

   managed to reach its nation’s-worst 234 ypg output in any of last 4 outings!

   Herd’s maturing RS frosh QB Cann has enough receivers & ground support to

   stretch margin.

   (07-UCF 47-Marshall 13...U.24-14 U.52/269 M.26/88 M.19/35/3/249 U.14/22/1/203 U.0 M.0)

   (07-UCF -14 47-13 06-Ucf +3' 23-22 05-UCF +3' 23-13...SR: EVEN 3-3)

   *Troy 21 - LSU 30—LSU’s downward spiral continued in deflating OT

   loss to Alabama. Tigers have dropped 5 of last 6 vs. the number and are 1-11

   in their last 12 laying more than 7 points. LSU frosh QB Lee has completed just

   43% with 8 ints. in last 3 games, while Troy counterpart Levi Brown has rolled

   through Sun Belt since taking over for Hampton at midseason. Trojans 8-3 as

   a dog last 2+ seasons. Game rescheduled due to Hurricane Hannah.

   (DNP...SR: Miss. 2-0)

   *Buffalo 34 - AKRON 24—Buffalo has won three straight, with recent play of

   RB James Starks (362 YR, 4 TDs last 2 games) and QB Drew Willy (66%, 5

   TDP, 0 ints. last 3) leading the way. Meanwhile, Akron defense ranks 103 in

   pass efficiency “D” and vs. the run, and has allowed 34 ppg in MAC play. Zip QB

   Jacquemain & RB Kennedy have been productive, but Turner Gill and the Bull

   defense have a better chance of slowing them than Akron defense vs. Starks &

   Willy. CABLE TV—ESPNU

   (07-BUF. 26-Akron 10...A.21-18 B.51/155 A.39/142 A.19/39/2/185 B.11/14/0/125 B.0 A.1)

   (07-BUFFALO -1 26-10 06-AKRON -17 31-16 05-Akron -10 13-7...SR: Akron 8-1)

   *Virginia Tech 23 - MIAMI-FLORIDA 21—Tech hopes a future star was born

   last Thursday when RS frosh RB Darren Evans (61 TDs as high school senior!)

   blistered Maryland for school-record 253 YR. With sr. QB Glennon healthy, wily

   old Hokie HC Beamer (17-5 vs. spread last 22 as visitor) probably has enough

   offensive balance to slug out victory over still-learning Miami counterpart

   Shannon and his jelling Hurricanes. Very little home-field edge for youthful host

   in first season at far-from-campus Dolphin Stadium. CABLE TV—ESPN

   (07-VA. TECH 44-Miami 14...V.22-13 V.43/182 M.29/M2 M.21/36/1/215 V.14/26/0/176 V.0 M.2)

   (07-TECH -16' 44-14 06-Tech -2 17-10 05-Miami +6' 27-7...SR: Miami-Florida 16-9)

   *UNLV 24 - Wyoming 22—Believe it or not, there are bowl implications

   involved here, as winner can become postseason-eligible with wins this week

   and next! Not sure, however, we want to lay anything meaningful with UNLV

   bunch that still has defensive issues and has been forced to turn to talented

   (but green) RS frosh QB Clausen. Wyo still competing for under-fire Joe Glenn,

   and RS frosh QB Stutzriem effectively piloting low-risk Cowboy “O” that’s content

   to feed ball to RBs Moore & Seldon.

   (07-WYO. 29-Unlv 24...U.23-20 W.46/208 U.41/43 U.21/39/2/223 W.13/33/2/156 W.0 U.0)

   (07-WYO. -11 29-24 06-Wyo. -9' 34-26 05-WYO. -18 42-17...SR: EVEN 8-8)

   FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

   *Cincinnati 31 - LOUISVILLE 21—Wary of laying inflated points after last

   week’s disparate results, as Louisville is piloted by a senior QB, has a major

   ground threat in RS frosh RB V. Anderson (913 YR on 6 ypc), and needs one

   more victory to be bowl eligible. Still, compelled to back burgeoning

   Bearcats, who are looking to bag Big East’s BCS bid after winning 6 of last

   7. Big edge at WR for Cincy, which hasn’t beaten cross-river rival Cards

   since 2002. CABLE TV—ESPN2

   (07-Lvl. 28-CINCY 24...C.26-20 C.33/136 L.38/97 L.28/38/0/350 C.26/46/2/324 L.0 C.2)

   (07-Lvl. +9' 28-24 06-LVL. -25 23-17 05-Lvl. -21' 46-22...SR: Cincinnati 26-21-1)

   SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

   PENN STATE 48 - Indiana 6—Difficult to predict mood of Penn State after

   having BCS Championship dreams smashed at Iowa, but Paterno’s team has

   been an excellent bully the last few years, covering 8 of last 9 laying more than

   22 points. Indiana is 1-8 vs. the number, and has already had its defense

   shredded by Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Michigan St. in Big Ten play, as that

   unit has suffered season-ending injuries to 3 of 4 2ndary starters. Nittany Lion

   QB Clark makes amends vs. Hoosiers.

   (07-Penn St. 36-IND. 31...25-25 P.47/192 I.30/68 I.30/48/0/318 P.22/32/1/195 P.1 I.4)

   (07-Penn State -7' 36-31...SR: Penn State 11-0)

   IOWA 32 - Purdue 10—Upset of Penn State likely to energize Hawkeyes

   down the stretch. Iowa defense ranks 8th in points allowed, RB Shonn Greene

   has rushed for more than 100 yards in every game this season, and Hawkeyes

   own major edges in special teams play. After making a splash against

   Michigan, Boiler soph QB Siller rushed for only 6 yards and threw for just 83

   against Michigan St., and that won’t feed the bulldog facing intense Iowa.

   (07-PURDUE 31-Iowa 6...P.29-14 P.42/116 I.29/77 P.29/49/1/315 I.17/40/1/177 P.0 I.1)

   (07-PURDUE -7 31-6 06-IOWA -11 47-17 05-Iowa +4' 34-17...SR: Purdue 45-32-4)

   MICHIGAN 24 - Northwestern 17—Michigan showed it still has pride with its

   dominating performance at Minnesota last week, and expect another positive

   effort, from Wolverine seniors (14 in 2-deep) playing last home game.

   Northwestern couldn’t tackle Ohio State RB Beanie Wells last week, and a 3-0

   turnover count did in Wildcats. Still, Michigan has dropped 6 straight as a

   favorite, and NW could have QB C.J. Bacher back in action.

   (07-Mich. 28-N’WESTERN 16...N.22-21 N.34/128 M.38/120 N.22/42/3/289 M.23/38/0/260 M.0 N.2)

   (07-Mich. -16' 28-16 06-MICH. -30 17-3 05-Mich. -3 33-17...SR: Michigan 52-14-2)

   WISCONSIN 24 - Minnesota 13—The euphoria over Minny’s 7-1 start has

   faded with back-to-back home losses to Northwestern & Michigan, and injury to

   star WR Decker could put a major crimp in the Gopher attack. Suddenlyresurgent

   Wisconsin can become bowl-eligible with a win, and Badger RB P.J.

   Hill looks healthy again and has gained 6 ypc in last 2 games. Wiscy QB Dustin

   Sherer has cut mistakes (just 1 int. in last 3 games), and Gophers aren’t

   generating TOs as they were in first half of season. TV—ABC

   (07-Wisc. 41-MINN. 34...M.23-19 W.48/325 M.35/149 M.21/37/2/352 W.7/15/1/118 W.0 M.1)

   (07-Wisc. -13' 41-34 06-WISC. -8 48-12 05-Wisc. +3' 38-34...SR: Minnesota 59-50-8)

   Wake Forest 21 - NORTH CAROLINA STATE 20—Composed Deacon QB

   Skinner hasn’t thrown a “pick” since late September, and well-coached Wake

   still in prime position to make ACC title game. Stubborn State (covered 6 of last

   7) has a chance to play spoiler, but only if rapidly-emerging RS frosh QB Russell

   Wilson (10 TDP, no ints. his last 5 games!) able to keep dynamic Deacon

   defenders (8 takeaways last 2 weeks) at bay. TV—ESPNU

   (07-W. FOR. 38-N. Car. St. 18...W.20-17 W.47/137 N.21/57 N.24/56/3/286 W.21/30/0/216 W.2 N.1)

   (07-WFU -6' 38-18 06-Wfu +3 25-23 05-WFU +3 27-19...SR: N. Carolina St. 60-35-6)

   CLEMSON 35 - Duke 18—No secret downtrodden Duke vastly improved

   under new HC Cutcliffe. But depth-shy Blue Devils (dropped 4 of last 5) hardpressed

   to maintain their resolve down stretch. Clemson’s fiery interim mentor

   Swinney auditioning for permanent job, Tigers’ shaky OL should hold its own,

   and host owns most explosive weapon on field in speedy jr. RB Spiller.

   (07-Clem. 47-DUKE 10...C.18-11 C.32/152 D.30/28 C.19/29/0/198 D.17/29/1/170 C.0 D.1)

   (07-Clemson -17 47-10 05-CLEMSON -30 49-20...SR: Clemson 34-16-1)

   MARYLAND 19 - North Carolina 17—“Handle with Care!” when it comes to

   handicapping games involving capricious Maryland. Ball has been bouncing

   the way of North Carolina (+13 TO margin!) most of season. But with Tar Heels

   off satisfying home win over Ga. Tech, inclined to support topsy-turvy Terps, who

   are 5-0 at College Park TY. TV—ABC

   (07-N. CAR. 16-Mary. 13...M.18-15 N.36/110 M.33/93 M.20/36/1/209 N.16/26/2/149 N.1 M.1)

   (07-UNC -2' 16-13 05-Maryland +2' 33-30 (OT)...SR: North Carolina 37-31-1)

   Notre Dame 28 - NAVY 21—Notre Dame is off two losses and can get bowleligible

   with a revenge win against Navy this week. Realize Navy is 29-10 vs.

   the number away from Annapolis, but memory of ‘07 OT loss (fueled by a

   fumble-return TD by the Middies) should be extra motivation Irish need to bring

   out a top effort. Navy’s pass defense ranks 108th in efficiency and 104th in

   yardage, and yielded 340 YP & 3 TDP in last outing (vs. Temple). Irish QB

   Clausen should do some damage. (at Baltimore, MD) TV—CBS

   (07-Navy 46-NAVY 44 (OT)...Nd.27-23 Na.66/257 Nd.63/235 Nd.17/27/0/140 Na.6/9/0/81 Na.1 Nd.1)

   (07-Navy +3' 46-44 (OT) 06-Und -13' 38-14 at Balt. 05-UND -23' 42-21...SR: N. Dame 70-10-1)

   *Connecticut 26 - SYRACUSE 10—Orange mustered only 168 total yards

   last week at Rutgers, and nearly half of that paltry total came from long TD run

   on first possession. Rested Huskies should hammer their way to easy victory

   behind star RB Donald Brown (nation-leading 156 ypg rushing), as sorry

   Syracuse (3-9 vs. spread last 12) just playing out the string for soon-to-be-fired

   HC Greg Robinson. CABLE TV—ESPNU

   (07-CONN. 30-Syr. 7...C.25-17 C.49/185 S.32/135 C.16/24/0/213 S.15/38/2/120 C.0 S.1)

   (07-CONN. -19 30-7 06-SYR. -1' 20-14 05-CONN. -6' 26-7...SR: EVEN 2-2)

   ALABAMA 31 - Mississippi State 3—Though No. 1-ranked Bama has

   punched its ticket to SEC title game, fast-starting Tide (outscoring foes 115-20

   in 1st Q) itching to end rare two-game losing streak vs. MSU. Bama QB Wilson,

   still haunted by 100-yd. int. return in LY’s loss, afforded ample time to scan field

   vs. Bulldog defense sans a pass rush (last in SEC). Meanwhile, fierce Tide

   stop unit (12 ppg) heavily blitzes MSU’s still-learning QB T. Lee, who can’t work

   play-action without sufficient ground support (just 3.2 ypc). Game still a big deal

   for MSU mentor Croom (see Looking for an Angle), but he’s suffered too many

   season-ending injuries (lost 9-10 key performers) to hang close in Tuscaloosa.

   (07-MISS. ST. 17-Ala. 12...A.23-14 A.37/153 M.42/115 A.16/35/2/121 M.9/21/1/100 M.0 A.0)

   (07-MSU +4 17-12 06-Msu +14' 24-16 05-Ala. -16 17-0...SR: Alabama 71-18-3)

   *Vanderbilt 23 - KENTUCKY 17—With number rising following last

   week’s disparate results, willing to take extra value with bowl-seeking Vandy

   (just one more win!), which is a profitable 14-3 last 17 as a road dog. Doubt

   Wildcats talented but raw frosh QB Cobb (only 105 YP vs. Georgia) steadily

   moves chains vs. fast, athletic ‘Dore defense (24 pts. or fewer in 8 of 9 TY),

   remarkably consistent until Florida debacle last week. Vandy’s now-healthy

   triggerman Nickson can take advantage of UK 2ndary possibly missing premier

   cover guy CB Lindley. CABLE TV—ESPN2

   (07-Ky. 27-VANDY 20...V.30-19 V.48/239 K.37/129 K.17/29/0/222 V.20/34/0/193 K.1 V.1)

   (07-Ky. -3' 27-20 06-KY. -2 38-26 05-Ky. +11' 48-43...SR: Kentucky 39-37-4)

   BAYLOR 30 - Texas A&M 27—Art Briles has always been able to build

   exciting offenses, and he has again TY with true frosh QB Robert Griffin (668

   YR, 11 TDR; 12 TDP, 2 ints.). But defense has never been his strength, so

   might give a look to underdog A&M (9-4 vs. spread last 13 as visitor) with QB

   Jerrod Johnson (19 TDs, 6 ints.) facing less defensive speed after seeing the

   Sooners last week.

   (07-TEX. A&M 34-Bay. 10...T.31-7 T.65/352 B.16/60 T.16/29/1/200 B.12/36/2/194 T.0 B.1)

   (07-TAM -16' 34-10 06-Tam -4' 31-21 05-TAM -23 16-13 (OT)...SR: Texas A&M 65-30-9)

   COLORADO STATE 28 - New Mexico 17—Now that NM is eliminated

   from bowl contention following depressing, come-from-ahead 27-20 loss at

   UNLV, favor upbeat, home-lovin’ CSU (5 straight covers in Fort Collins), which

   bitterly recalls LY’s last-second series loss. Have much more faith in Rams

   productive 6-3 sr. QB Farris (827 YP last 3 weeks) than Lobos RS frosh backup

   Gruner (only 11 of 25 for 128 vs. Rebels). Careful CSU has lost a mere 3

   fumbles, and RB G. Johnson III chomping at the bit after 172 YR vs. NM LY.

   (07-N. MEX. 26-Colo. St. 23...C.21-18 C.53/178 N.31/120 C.13/19/0/221 N.21/29/0/211 N.1 C.0)

   (07-UNM -9 26-23 06-Unm +6' 20-19 05-Csu +5' 35-25...SR: Colorado State 31-24)

   WESTERN MICHIGAN 42 - Toledo 19—Hot meets cold. WMU is 8-1 SU &

   5-1-1 vs. the number in last 9 games, while rudderless, leaderless Toledo failed

   to rally for lame-duck HC Amstutz and lost for the 6th time in 7 games at Akron

   last week. Rocket pass defense has been terrible this season (109th in

   efficiency), and Toledo allows 33 ppg. Bronco QB Hiller (360 ypg passing, 15

   TDs, just 2 ints. last 5 games) should fricassee Rocket 2ndary.

   (07-W. Mich. 42-TOLEDO 28...W.30-16 W.58/261 T.36/224 W.21/29/1/229 T.9/23/1/158 W.1 T.1)

   (07-Wmu +1' 42-28 06-WMU +10' 31-10 05-TOLEDO -22 56-23...SR: Toledo 36-26)

   LOUISIANA TECH 31 - Utah State 10—While bowl-seeking 5-4 La Tech

   playing its best ball with back-to-back upsets vs. Fresno State and San Jose

   State, mistake-prone Utah State (21 fumbles, 11 lost) has dropped 4 straight on

   road by combined 127 points. Bulldogs potent 1-2 punch of RBs P. Jackson &

   Porter (combined 434 YR last two weeks) should KO permissive Aggie defense

   (37 ppg; 5.1 ypc) that gave up 288 on ground in ‘07 meeting. Fourth straight

   series cover for Tech.

   (07-La. Tech 31-UTAH ST. 21...L.30-17 L.53/288 U.35/106 L.23/29/1/230 U.17/26/1/220 L.0 U.0)

   (07-Tech -2' 31-21 06-TECH -6 48-35 05-Tech -7 27-17...SR: Louisiana Tech 3-2)

   SOUTHERN MISS 26 - East Carolina 19—Pointspread pendulum swinging

   back (hard) on former bankroll buddy Skip Holtz (lost 6 of last 7 vs. line), as

   attrition has robbed his Pirates of their best playmakers on offense and much of

   their depth on defense. USM’s touted 6-6 true frosh WR DeAndre Brown has

   snagged 8 TDC in last 4 games, and coagulating Eagle defense has permitted

   just 3 TDs during last 2 outings.

   (07-S. Miss 28-E. CAR. 21...21-21 S.43/146 E.37/97 S.18/28/1/237 E.20/35/1/203 S.2 E.0)

   (07-Usm -1' 28-21 06-Ecu +6 20-17 (OT) 05-Usm -7 33-7...SR: Southern Miss 25-8)

   TULANE 28 - Uab 27—Lack of depth is main problem for UAB. But Tulane’s

   roster has been ravaged by injuries lately, so compelled to take points with

   rested Blazers, who shouldn’t be outmanned against depleted Green Wave.

   (07-UAB 26-Tulane 21...T.24-15 T.45/240 U.25/110 T.19/39/2/264 U.17/32/0/262 U.1 T.0)

   (07-UAB -2' 26-21...SR: EVEN 3-3)

   Texas 34 - KANSAS 27—Kansas down on defense TY, but Jayhawks have

   suffered only one loss by more than 14 points (63-21 vs. TT) in their 18-5 run

   over the last two seasons. Although the Longhorns own more talent on defense,their ground game is not dominating, and UT has faced quite a gauntlet over

   past month. Last meeting on this field in ’04 ended in controversial UT win with

   Mark Mangino blasting the officials, insinuating favoritism.

   (05-TEXAS -33 66-14...SR: Texas 6-2)

   *Missouri 34 - IOWA STATE 13—Mizzou was upset on its last trip to Ames.

   This time, Tigers find the desperate Cyclones on an eight-game losing streak,

   unable to generate many big plays. But ISU (3 straight covers in series) does

   grind out plenty of first downs with its “little” offense, and Tigers missed the

   services of A-A TE Chase Coffman (turf toe) last week. Will the November

   weather help slow the relentless Chase Daniel (28 TDP)?

   (07-MO. 42-Iowa St. 28...I.25-23 I.39/152 M.28/116 M.28/37/1/250 I.33/48/0/237 M.0 I.1)

   (07-MO. -28' 42-28 06-ISU +13' 21-16 05-MO. -6 27-24 (OT)...SR: Missouri 58-33-9)

   OREGON ST. 27 - California 18—They’re talking Rose Bowl in Corvallis, where

   wins in next 3 games can put OSU in Pasadena for first time since Tommy Prothro’s

   1964 Beavers turned the trick! And, since OSU wasn’t bothered in the least at

   UCLA by going to backup QB Canfield (with starting experience) after starter

   Moevao’s shoulder injury, don’t mind giving hot OSU a look. Jeff Tedford’s

   ongoing QB juggling not helping continuity of Cal offense, and Bears have only

   covered 1 of last 5 after always-emotional games vs. USC. TV—ABC

   (07-Ore. St. 31-CAL. 28...C.23-17 C.39/184 O.42/153 C.20/37/1/294 O.18/33/0/186 O.1 C.2)

   (07-Osu +14 31-28 06-Cal. -9 41-13 05-Osu +16 23-20...SR: California 33-28)

   Arizona 34 - OREGON 31—We’ll give Arizona “D” a mulligan for falling asleep

   at the switch on a few occasions last week at Wazzu. But for the most part in

   ‘08, Mike Stoops’ stop unit has overachieved, especially vs. the pass (ranking

   3rd nationally). And no question that sr. QB Tuitama and o.c. Sonny Dykes’

   Texas Tech-like spread can trade points with Oregon, which has found Cats a

   very tough matchup in recent years (UA victories last 2, and covers last 3

   meetings, all as DD dog).

   (07-ARIZ. 34-Ore. 24...O.24-16 O.43/238 A.30/56 A.21/39/1/266 O.27/54/3/225 A.1 O.1)

   (07-ARIZ. +11 34-24 06-Ariz. +13' 37-10 05-Ore. -10' 28-21...SR: Oregon 19-13)

   *Ucla 26 - WASHINGTON 23—Winless Washington (outscored 95-19 past 2)

   not exactly rallying down stretch for lame duck Ty Willingham. But Husky brain

   trust at least emptied its bag of tricks vs. ASU last week, and backup QB Fouch

   has demonstrated some playmaking ability. Besides, taking points with U-Dub

   slightly more preferable than laying anything with banged-up UCLA bunch that

   hasn’t covered its last 8 as Pac-10 road chalk. What kind of reception might

   Rick Neuheisel get in Seattle?

   (07-UCLA 44-Wash. 31...U.24-16 U.51/333 W.32/124 W.17/37/2/216 U.18/33/1/204 U.1 W.0)

   (07-UCLA -6 44-31 06-WASH. +3 29-19 05-UCLA -21' 21-17...SR: UCLA 36-29-2)

   Georgia 24 - AUBURN 21—While 5-5 Auburn in midst of a disappointing

   campaign, still reluctant to lay around a TD with UGA, which narrowly escaped

   in 42-38 win at banged-up Kentucky. Bulldog defense, which had trouble

   coping with Wildcats mobile QB Cobb (82 YR), has similiar concerns vs. Tigers

   swift triggerman Burns, who is well-supported by dangerous RBs Tate, Lester

   & Fannin. Proud, athletic AU defense (16 ppg) on a mission after allowing 82

   pts. last two meetings. And embroiled Tiger mentor Tuberville has suffered only

   one SEC loss on The Plains by more than a TD since ‘03.

   (07-GEORGIA 45-Aub. 20...A.18-16 G.43/180 A.35/83 G.11/19/1/237 A.14/30/4/133 G.1 A.0)

   (07-GEORGIA -2 45-20 06-Georgia +12 37-15 05-Aub. +3 31-30...SR: Auburn 53-50-8)

   AIR FORCE 25 - Byu 23—Now that playmaking frosh QB Jefferson (a

   surprising 171 YP last week vs. CSU) getting the hang of things running Air

   Force’s spread/option, Falcs better equipped to trade points with BYU than

   recent years. MWC scouts also raving about scheming of shrewd AFA d.c.

   DeRuyter and opportunistic Falc “D,” now at +12 TOs. Meanwhile, pass-happy

   Cougs (only 104 YR vs. SDSU) becoming a bit one-dimensional as season

   progresses, and have dropped last 6 vs. line (all as chalk).

   (07-BYU 31-Air Force 6...B.25-12 B.44/159 A.32/133 B.23/33/1/293 A.10/21/1/98 B.1 A.0)

   (07-BYU -11' 31-6 06-Byu -9' 33-14 05-BYU -6' 62-41...SR: BYU 22-6)

   FLORIDA 35 - South Carolina 20—Sure, national-title seeking UF, which just

   clinched the SEC East, is en fuego. But interested in taking heavy lumber with

   highly-competitive USC (all 3 losses by 7 pts.) eager to get another crack at

   Gators following stinging 51-31 Columbia setback LY. HC Spurrier—making

   his 2nd return visit to The Swamp (last-second loss there in ‘06)—now effectively

   “shuffling” QBs Smelley & Garcia (from Tampa), who was strongly recruited by

   UF and will be in front of family & friends. SEC sources believe injury-free ‘Cock

   defense (15 ppg; leads SEC in total & pass defense) ranks with the best ever

   in Columbia (remember the Fire Ants?), so not so sure Gators continue to

   rampage vs. fired-up, self-named “Goon Squad” also loaded with playmakers.

   07-Fla. 51-S. CAR. 31...F.28-22 F.48/233 S.26/68 S.26/44/1/316 F.22/32/1/304 F.2 S.2)

   (07-Fla. -7 51-31 06-FLA. -13 17-16 05-USC +4 30-22...SR: Florida 21-4-3)

   NEVADA 36 - San Jose State 17—Whereas San Jose “O” has suddenly lost

   the keys to its ignition (QBs Eden & Reed both ineffective last week vs. La Tech,

   and top RB Davis ? with ankle), Chris Ault’s Nevada Pistol (38 ppg) firing live

   ammunition as slamming RB Taua (WAC rush leader added 263 YR at Fresno!)

   continues to provide effective complement to long-striding soph QB

   Kaepernick. That’s bad news for undersized Spartan “D”. Note Wolf Pack’s 14-

   3 mark as Reno chalk since ‘04.

   (07-S. JOSE ST. 27-Nevada 24...S.25-22 N.35/174 S.40/86 S.30/47/1/346 I.12/24/0/252 S.0 I.2)

   (07-SJS +3' 27-24 06-NEVADA -13 23-7 05-Nevada -3' 30-23...SR: Nevada 12-8-2)

   *MARSHALL 36 - Ucf 17—Usually not enamored of laying substantial

   points with Marshall side that’s found straight-up wins hard to come by in recent

   seasons. Still, eager to buck impotent UCF, as Knight offense hasn’t even

   managed to reach its nation’s-worst 234 ypg output in any of last 4 outings!

   Herd’s maturing RS frosh QB Cann has enough receivers & ground support to

   stretch margin.

   (07-UCF 47-Marshall 13...U.24-14 U.52/269 M.26/88 M.19/35/3/249 U.14/22/1/203 U.0 M.0)

   (07-UCF -14 47-13 06-Ucf +3' 23-22 05-UCF +3' 23-13...SR: EVEN 3-3)

   Boise State 49 - IDAHO 7—Now that BSU’s creative attack (98 pts. last two)

   is playing on the same level of its fast, head-hunting defense (10 ppg!), must

   “lay it” with superbly-coached Bronco bunch that has easily covered all 4 road

   games TY. BSU’s terrific QB K. Moore (6th nationally in pass efficiency) directs

   his undefeated BCS-seeking squad to another lopsided victory vs defenseless

   Idaho (44 ppg), equally charitable vs. run (27 TDs) and pass (22).

   (07-BOISE ST. 58-Idaho 14...B.25-17 B.36/151 I.44/136 B.26/37/0/405 I.12/29/0/212 B.0 I.1)

   (07-BSU -34 58-14 06-Bsu -21 42-26 05-BSU -32' 70-35...SR: Boise State 19-17-1)

   *Tulsa 52 - HOUSTON 49—Two of nation’s most prolific offenses (combined

   1140 ypg!) tangle in this crucial C-USA West battle. Golden Hurricane benefits

   from week off to refocus following first loss of season at Arkansas, while

   Houston has had whole year to stew over shellacking it absorbed at Tulsa LY.

   Visitor’s offensive arsenal runs a bit deeper, but can’t lay roomy points vs.

   quick-trigger Coug QB Keenum (68%, 29 TDP).

   (07-TULSA 56-Hou. 7...T.22-17 T.46/202 H.43/198 T.15/28/0/313 H.15/24/3/126 T.1 H.2)

   (07-TULSA P 56-7 06-HOU. +3 27-10 05-Hou. +3 30-23...SR: Houston 17-16)

   FRESNO STATE 33 - New Mexico State 23—Difficult to make a case for

   either of these WAC underachievers. But we might be less interested laying

   significant points with Fresno bunch that hasn’t covered a game since Joe The

   Plumber was, well, just a plumber (Sept. 1 at Rutgers), and is now a rather

   unbelievable 3-19 its last 22 as chalk! NMSU (no wins or covers last 4) has spit

   the bit, but Hal Mumme’s Air Raid at least still functioning, thanks to sr. QB

   Holbrook (394 YP last week vs. Hawaii).

   (07-Fres. St. 30-NMS 23...F.23-22 F.53/263 N.27/96 N.31/53/0/323 F.10/19/0/205 F.0 N.0)

   (07-Fsu -13 30-23 06-FSU -12' 23-18 05-Fsu -27' 37-7...SR: Fresno State 14-0)

   *Southern Cal 27 - STANFORD 15—Revenge motive awfully strong for SC

   after LY’s shocking loss as 40½-point chalk (!) vs. Stanford. And Pete Carroll’s

   voracious “D” on course to be first FBS stop unit to allow fewer than 100 points

   since Miami’s 2001 national champs. But Stanford better equipped than most

   Pac-10 foes to follow the road map Oregon State used to upset Troy, namely,

   using physical, vet OL to attack SC in north-south fashion, especially if

   slamming RB Gerhart (hamstring at Oregon) available to go. Sr.-laden Cardinal

   “D” confident it can keep recently-misfiring Trojan attack under control after forcing

   several mistakes with schemes and disguised coverages in ‘07 mega-upset.

   (07-Stan. 24-S. CAL 23...Sc.19-16 Sc.38/95 St.39/86 Sc.24/41/4/364 St.11/30/1/149 St.0 Sc.1)

   (07-Stan. +40' 24-23 06-Usc -29 42-0 05-USC -34 51-21...SR: Southern Cal 58-25-3)

   Nebraska 37 - KANSAS STATE 26—First home game for KSU’s Ron Prince

   since the announcement of his imminent termination. Meanwhile, Bo Pelini’s

   Cornhuskers (6-4) became bowl eligible with a fired-up defense (5 sacks) and

   varied offense (328 YP, 167 YR, RB Marlon Lucky a TD throw, NT Ndamukong

   Suh a TD catch) last week vs. Kansas. Would be more enthusiastic if NU’s

   secondary were a little more trustworthy. Prince 0-8 SU vs. North rivals Kansas,

   Mizzou & Nebraska.

   (07-NEB. 73-Kan. St. 31...N.35-24 N.37/183 K.28/108 N.31/43/0/519 K.26/44/0/320 N.0 K.0)

   (07-NEB. +7' 73-31 06-Neb. -9 21-3 05-NEB. -6 27-25...SR: Nebraska 75-15-2)

   *Oklahoma State 34 - COLORADO 20—Will OSU—whose BCS hopes were

   crushed last week with its second loss—lose its edge a bit, as BYU did in a

   somewhat similar situation earlier this year? Cowboys better not, as CU is 4-1

   SU at home TY and is rejuvenated after a four-TDP performance last week from

   QB Cody Hawkins (who is still yielding some snaps to the better-running Tyler

   Hansen). OSU 8-1 vs. spread TY, and 10-1 last 11 as a DD favorite! TV—ABC

   (05-Colorado -3 34-0...SR: Colorado 26-17-1)

   Rutgers 27 - SOUTH FLORIDA 26—Don’t look now, but here come the

   Scarlet Knights, who have won 3 straight (and covered last 5) after staggering

   out of gate TY. Sr. QB Teel (637 YP & 9 TDP in just last 2 games!) is in a

   groove, and now-healthy soph RB Kordell Young balancing Rutgers attack.

   Bulls just 2 covers in last 9 on line, their defense isn’t as stout as LY, and USF

   has mustered only 3 TDs during previous 2 games. Upset alert!

   (07-RUTGERS 30-S. Fla. 27...S.20-18 R.42/170 S.38/115 S.17/35/1/247 R.13/32/0/230 R.3 S.0)

   (07-RUTGERS +2 30-27 06-Rutgers -3' 24-22 05-Usf +2' 45-31...SR: Rutgers 2-1)

   *FLORIDA STATE 27 - Boston College 14—Not a bad matchup for stingy

   Eagle stop unit, which has enough girth in the middle and enough speed on the

   perimeter to stymie Florida State’s renascent rushing attack (205 ypg TY; just

   106 ypg in previous 3 campaigns!). Speedy Seminoles no slouches on defense

   themselves, however, and developing soph QB Ponder is more careful with ball

   than mistake-prone BC counterpart Crane. TV—ABC

   (07-Fla. St. 27-BOS. COL. 17...F.25-20 F.31/81 B.21/63 B.26/53/3/415 F.30/46/0/371 F.0 B.0)

   (07-Fsu +6' 27-17 06-Bc +6' 24-19 05-Fsu -1' 28-17...SR: Florida State 4-2)

   Ohio State 27 - ILLINOIS 24—Up-and-down Illinois has alternated spread

   results the last 6 games and is due for an “up” effort this week. Illini upset the

   Buckeyes last season and gave Tressel’s crew all it could handle in ‘06, and they have covered 3 of last 4 as a home dog. OSU’s talented frosh QB Terrelle

   Pryor is still learning, while Illinois counterpart Juice Williams burned Buckeyes

   for 4 TD passes in last season’s meeting. Illini RB Dufrene (5.6 ypc) returned to

   action last week, and he had 106 YR at Columbus last year.

   (07-Ill. 28-OHIO ST. 21...I.19-18 I.51/260 O.36/180 O.13/23/3/156 I.12/22/0/140 I.0 O.0)

   (07-Ill. +15 28-21 06-Osu -25 17-10 05-OSU -35 40-2...SR: Ohio State 60-30-4)

   *Utah 45 - SAN DIEGO STATE 7—Sure, it’s a potential sandwich spot for Utah

   between TCU and BYU showdowns. But we’re talking about SDSU, where it’s

   considered a moral victory these days to gain more than a few inches per carry

   and lose by less than a TD per quarter. And Utes not terribly interested in merely

   going through the motions, as they’d like to impress pollsters who can keep

   them in line for BCS at-large berth if wins keep flowing.

   (07-UTAH 23-S. Diego St. 7...U.27-12 U.46/282 S.29/62 U.24/32/1/232 S.15/32/1/149 U.1 S.1)

   (07-UTAH -14' 23-7 06-Utah -9 38-7 05-Sds +10 28-19...SR: Utah 14-12-1)

   *UTEP 38 - Smu 35—Although initial impulse might be to side with potent

   UTEP & underrated soph QB Vittatoe (49 TDP, only 13 ints. last 1+ seasons)

   against visiting 1-win SMU, prefer to shade technical trend that finds

   defensively-vulnerable Miners losers against spread in 14 of their 15 as favorite!

   (07-Utep 48-SMU 45 (OT)...U.32-29 U.52/308 S.45/257 S.15/29/1/259 U.18/36/2/250 U.0 S.1)

   (07-Utep +1' 48-45 (OT) 06-UTEP -12 24-21 05-SMU +7 40-27...SR: SMU 9-6)

   ARIZONA STATE 55 - Washington State 10—Well, the good news for Wazzu

   was that its punchless “O” awakened last week vs. Arizona, scoring 28 points.

   The bad news, however, was that Cougs allowed another 59 vs. Wildcats, as

   WSU “D” continues its Wayne Gretzky-like assault on record book (Wazzu has

   already allowed 99 more points than any Pac-10 “D” in history...with 2 games to

   go!). Meanwhile, ASU “O” balancing things better in recent weeks (RB Herring

   144 YR at U-Dub), and Sun Devils’ bowl hopes suddenly resuscitated.

   (07-Ariz. St. 23-WASH. ST. 20...21-21 W.25/82 A.45/79 W.27/51/1/369 A.19/27/2/217 A.0 W.0)

   (07-Asu -9 23-20 06-ASU +1 47-14 05-Asu -2 27-24...SR: Arizona State 20-12-2)

   ADDED GAMES

   Middle Tennessee State 24 - WESTERN KENTUCKY 16—Payback time for

   Middle Tennessee vs. an old rival that will officially be joining the Sun Belt next

   season. So, with Blue Raiders owning two experienced QBs (Craddock &

   Dasher each had a TDP last week), and Hilltoppers down to No. 3 (jr. B. Smith)

   last week, will lay small number.

   (07-W. Ky. 20-MTSU 17...M.17-16 W.49/234 M.37/119 M.14/24/0/169 W.9/15/1/122 W.2 M.0)

   (07-Western Kentucky (NL) 20-17...SR: Middle Tennessee State 29-28-1)

   *La.-Lafayette 30 - FLORIDA ATLANTIC 23—FAU stirring a bit in recent

   weeks as QB Rusty Smith emerges from early-season slump. But ULL’s QB

   Desormeaux, RB Fenroy, and ground-gobbling Ragin’ Cajun “O” (6.4 ypc/

   ranked 6th rushing in nation) can abuse FAU stop unit that has had trouble

   stopping the run (6th vs. rush in Belt) this year and set up bowl-deciding ULL

   showdown vs. Troy.

   (07-Fau 39-LA.-LAF. 32 (OT)...F.25-21 L.53/317 F.42/126 F.26/45/0/308 L.14/24/2/121 F.0 L.1)

   (07-Fau -6' 39-32 (OT) 06-Ull -8' 6-0 05-Fau +5' 28-10...SR: Fla. Atlantic 2-1)

   MISSISSIPPI 31 - La.-Monroe 19—With multi-talented QB Lancaster (202

   YP, 136 YR vs. Middle Tennessee) back at the helm, recommend taking 2+TDs

   with scrappy ULM, 3-0-1 vs. spread last 4 vs. SEC foes, including upset at

   Bama LY and near-miss at Arkansas TY. Bowl-seeking 5-4 Ole Miss might

   want to conserve some energy for LSU & hated rival MSU final two weeks.

   Disciplined Warhawks (only 10 giveaways in 9 games) won’t give Rebel

   attack short scoring drives.

   (DNP...SR: Mississippi 2-0)

   TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18

   *Northern Illinois at KENT STATE—Check out http://www.goldsheet.com [goldsheet.com]">www.goldsheet.com for

   our pick on this game!!

   (07-N. ILL. 27-Kent St. 20...N.28-25 N.54/235 K.39/204 N.21/29/2/275 K.21/42/1/159 N.1 K.1)

   (07-NIU +3' 27-20 05-Niu -10' 34-3...SR: Northern Illinois 14-7)

   WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

   *Ball State at CENTRAL MICHIGAN—Check out http://www.goldsheet.com [goldsheet.com]">www.goldsheet.com for

   our pick on this game!! CABLE TV—ESPN2

   (07-C. Mich. 58-BALL ST. 38...C.32-20 C.45/298 B.39/141 C.30/38/1/360 B.18/38/0/228 C.0 B.1)

   (07-Cmu +12' 58-38 06-CMU -10 18-7 05-Cmu -4 31-24 (OT)...SR: Central Michigan 21-18-1)

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 3:04pm
9. 0 likes

   THE GOLD SHEET

   N.Y. JETS by 7 over New England (Thursday, Nov. 13)

   TAMPA BAY by 14 over Minnesota

   OVER THE TOTAL in the Denver-Atlanta game

   *New York Jets 20 - NEW ENGLAND 13—Brett Favre wasn’t able to

   alter the dynamics of this incestuous rivalry when teams first met in Week Two

   in N.Y., but that was just his second start for Jets. With Favre more familiar with

   new offense and Thomas Jones (149 YR last week vs. Rams) running up a

   storm, Jets capable of extending series visitor dominance (road team has

   covered last 6 reg.-season meetings). Stout N.Y. defense (just 3.1 ypc; 31

   sacks) should force Matt Cassel to be more of a playmaker than Bill Belichick

   would prefer. TV—NFL NETWORK

   (08-Ne. 19-NYJ 10...Ne.18-12 Ny.21/104 Ne.33/104 Ne.16/23/0/156 Ny.18/26/1/152 Ne.0 Ny.0)

   (07-Ne. 38-JETS 14...Ne.28-17 Ne.37/134 Ny.19/60 Ne.22/28/0/297 Ny.21/31/0/167 Ne.0 Ny.0)

   (07-NE. 20-Jets 10...Ne.16-13 Ne.35/131 Ny.17/90 Ny.25/40/1/146 Ne.14/27/1/134 Ne.0 Ny.1)

   (08-N. Eng. +1 19-10; 07-N. Eng. -6' 38-14, NEW ENG. -21 20-10...SR: New England 49-48-1)

   SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16

   OVER THE TOTAL ATLANTA 31 - Denver 30—Denver Pro Bowl CB

   Champ Bailey (played at Georgia) says he expects to return from his groin

   injury. That might not help the undersized defensive front of the Broncos,

   missing two starting LBs and giving up 5.1 ypc in containing bruising RB

   Michael Turner (890 YR) and fleet Jerious Norwood (365 YR TY; 65-yd. TDC

   last week). But can Atlanta’s secondary (3 ints. last week) cope with Jay Cutler

   and premium targets Brandon Marshall & Eddie Royal (combined 109 recs.).

   Denver “over” 10-3-1 last 14 away; Falcs’ 4-0 vs. spread at home TY.

   (04-Atlanta +6' 41-28...SR: Denver 8-4)

   TAMPA BAY 30 - Minnesota 16—Insiders say Jon Gruden very

   pleased the way his gradually-rebuilt OL now developing. And Joey Galloway

   is back in action to stretch the stretchable Viking defense, drawing attention

   away from new go-to WR Antonio Bryant (45 recs.). Minny 1-3 vs. the spread

   on the road TY (“over” all four), and Adrian Peterson not likely to flourish on the

   grass vs. the quick & stubborn T.B. defense, refreshed after its bye week. Gus

   Frerotte smart, but not fast enough here. (05-T. Bay +6 24-13...SR: Min. 31-19)

   MIAMI 26 - Oakland 10—The NFL’s six western-most teams are 0-13 SU

   and 3-9-1 vs. the spread this year playing in east coast states (plus

   Pennsylvania). The on-going coaching and roster changes (e.g., release of CB

   DeAngelo Hall), plus player demotions and injuries, make this a one-sided

   game in terms of stability and leadership. Worse yet, the Raiders had fallen to 30th

   vs. the run prior to last week and must cope with Ronnie Brown & Ricky Williams.

   Number is puffy, but Oakland’s frequent breakdowns make for low percentages.

   (07-Oak. 35-MIAMI 17...O.21-13 O.49/299 M.20/141 M.14/25/2/137 O.5/12/0/70 O.1 M.0)

   (07-Oakland +4 35-17...SR: Oakland 19-12-1)

   NY GIANTS 23 - Baltimore 19—Ravens have the key element to needed to

   make things difficult for the champs, namely, a stout run defense to keep N.Y.’s

   bruising ground game in check. And Baltimore’s own McGahee-McClain-Rice

   rush offense taking lots of pressure off Joe Flacco, who was sacked only three

   times and intercepted just once at Pittsburgh, when he impressively drove the

   Ravens for the tying 4th-Q TD before losing in OT. Baltimore TE Todd Heap is

   a special weapon when healthy, and he caught two TDs last week.

   (04-BALTIMORE -10 37-14...SR: Baltimore 3-0)

   INDIANAPOLIS 30 - Houston 26—Sage Rosenfels still has nightmares

   about TY’s first meeting, when he fumbled twice and tossed an int. in the last

   eight minutes, as Houston became the first team to blow a 17-point lead in the

   last 5 minutes to lose in regulation. Hot Texan WR Andre Johnson was 9 for 131

   receiving in that game. With Indy only 1-3 vs. the spread so far at “The Luke,”

   and with both defenses hurting (Texans 8-1 “over” TY), might look for eighth

   straight “over” in series.

   (08-Indy 31-HOU. 27...H.23-18 H.32/156 I.22/79 H.21/33/1/235 I.25/34/1/235 I.0 H.2)

   (07-Indy 30-HOU. 24...I.18-16 I.29/92 H.17/40 I.20/29/0/270 H.27/33/2/214 I.0 H.0)

   (07-INDY 38-Hou. 15...I.33-18 I.31/120 H.19/66 I.31/40/0/338 H.22/36/3/233 I.1 H.0)

   (08-Indy -3' 31-27; 07-Indy -6' 30-24, INDY -7 38-15...SR: Indianapolis 12-1)

   Tennessee 23 - JACKSONVILLE 16—While the Tennessee offense has its

   flaws (no dynamic WRs, lack of pass-run balance in a pass-oriented league),

   the Titan defense (13 ppg, best in the league) keeps shining through. One key

   factor on that unit has been DT Albert Haynesworth (6 sacks), opposed this

   week by the Jags’ fill-in Gs. Vince Young (2 ints.) was the Tenn. QB in the first

   meeting opening weekend. Must note Jags15-6-1 dog mark last 22 (2-0 TY).

   (08-TENN. 17-Jack. 10...T.14-13 T.32/137 J.17/33 T.14/24/2/172 J.23/35/2/156 T.0 J.1)

   (07-Tenn. 13-JACK. 10...T.22-13 T.46/278 J.18/72 J.17/30/0/200 T.11/18/1/68 T.0 J.1)

   (07-Jack. 28-TENN. 13...J.19-17 J.44/166 T.19/62 T.24/41/2/230 J.13/23/0/96 J.1 T.1)

   (08-TENN. +3 17-10; 07-Tenn. +7 13-10, Jack. +4' 28-13...SR: Tennessee 16-12)

   Chicago 24 - GREEN BAY 23—Kyle Orton might return at QB, but Bears can

   go to war with Rex Grossman, who has reduced his mistakes since call from

   bullpen two weeks ago. Even the “bad Rex” can hand off to Matt Forte, which

   could spell big problems for the suddenly-soft G.B. rush defense allowing 5

   ypc and has been gashed for 175 YR or more six times already TY.

   Meanwhile, inconsistencies in Pack’s own infantry creating an increased

   burden for Aaron Rodgers.

   (07-Chi. 27-G. BAY 20...G.18-16 G.22/121 C.33/82 G.29/40/2/318 C.15/25/1/203 C.0 G.3)

   (07-CHI. 35-G. Bay 7...C.14-13 C.45/139 G.21/125 G.17/32/2/149 C.8/14/0/101 C.0 G.0)

   (07-Chicago +3 27-20, CHICAGO +8 35-7...SR: Chicago 90-79-6)

   Philadelphia 27 - CINCINNATI 13—Eagles 4-1 their last 5 as a road favorite,

   and the emergence of speed WR DeSean Jackson to go with Brian Westbrook

   & Donovan McNabb gives Philly quite a formidable group of “triplets” compared

   with Cincy’s Chad Ocho Cinco, Cedric Benson & Ryan Fitzpatrick (62%, but 4

   TDs vs. 6 ints.; 1-4 vs. spread as starter TY). On defense, Bengals’

   combination of only 14 sacks & ints. was second-worst in NFL prior to last

   weekend. (04-Cincinnati -3' 38-10...SR: Cincinnati 7-3)

   New Orleans 30 - KANSAS CITY 20—Reggie Bush says he expects to

   return from his knee injury for this game, while Chiefs’ Larry Johnson will have

   concluded his NFL suspension. Tyler Thigpen & Jamaal Charles now appear

   to be the future of the K.C. offense. But the present of the Chiefs’ defense (only

   6 sacks TY!) clearly not ready for the quick-firing Drew Brees (17 TDP), eager

   to atone for his 3 ints. of last week.

   (04-NEW ORLEANS +3' 27-20...SR: EVEN 4-4)

   CAROLINA 27 - Detroit 9—Panthers’ bright rookie C Ryan Kalil and powerful

   rookie RT Jeff Otah back in action after lingering ankle injuries, improving the

   already-potent Carolina ground game. That’s good news for Panthers, now 6-

   0-2 vs. spread last eight at home. Further good news is the arrival of the limited

   Detroit offense (7 sacks last week) and the see-through Lion defense (31 ppg).

   Dean Stanton or Daunte Culpepper vs. Julius Peppers is not good.

   (05-Carolina P 21-20...SR: Carolina 3-1)

   TAMPA BAY 30 - Minnesota 16—Insiders say Jon Gruden very

   pleased the way his gradually-rebuilt OL now developing. And Joey Galloway

   is back in action to stretch the stretchable Viking defense, drawing attention

   away from new go-to WR Antonio Bryant (45 recs.). Minny 1-3 vs. the spread

   on the road TY (“over” all four), and Adrian Peterson not likely to flourish on the

   grass vs. the quick & stubborn T.B. defense, refreshed after its bye week. Gus

   Frerotte smart, but not fast enough here. (05-T. Bay +6 24-13...SR: Min. 31-19)

   SAN FRANCISCO 23 - St. Louis 16—Mike Singletary, in his post-game

   tirade after his first game as a HC three weeks ago, inadvertently

   shouted the wish of all handicappers when he yelled, “I want winners!”

   Victory quite possible vs. the flailing Rams if Steven Jackson (thigh) is still

   sidelined from an offense producing only 14 ppg while the defense gives up 31.

   Niners 6-1 vs. spread in last 7 in series; own the better defense.

   (07-S. Frn. 17-ST. LOU. 16...St.20-8 Sf.28/89 St.23/61 St.24/41/0/331 Sf.11/17/0/97 Sf.2 St.3)

   (07-St. Lou. 13-S. FRN. 9...St.15-13 St.29/102 Sf.16/32 Sf.20/42/2/212 St.21/32/0/105 St.0 Sf.0)

   (07-San Francisco +3 17-16, St. Louis -3 13-9...SR: St. Louis 60-55-2)

   SEATTLE 21 - Arizona 20—Return of Matt Hasselbeck (check status) is set

   for this game after he missed five straight with a herniated disk that has been

   fazing his knee strength. However, even if it’s Seneca Wallace again, he has

   at least stabilized the offense (no turnovers last week in cover at Miami),

   meaning the visiting Cards will have to fully earn everything they get on this

   tough field vs. the four-time defending NFC West champs. Hawks’ defense can

   keep Warner on the move.

   (07-ARIZ. 23-Sea. 20...A.20-18 A.26/132 S.24/92 A.23/37/1/299 S.22/36/0/278 A.0 S.1)

   (07-SEA. 42-Ariz. 21...A.23-21 S.28/80 A.16/50 A.28/46/5/305 S.22/33/0/269 S.0 A.0)

   (07-ARIZONA +3 23-20, SEATTLE -7 42-21...SR: EVEN 9-9)

   PITTSBURGH 28 - San Diego 19—S.D. (7-2-1 as a dog) is getting points for

   the first time since Chargers’ injury-hampered AFC title game last season in

   Foxborough. It’s pretty clear S.D. not playing to that level these days.

   Pittsburgh might be, if it could only keep its key players healthy. Willie Parker

   (shoulder) expected back this week. Chargers, tops in takeaways LY, now very

   vulnerable to the pass. Steeler defense hopes OLB LaMarr Woodley (9½

   sacks; out with calf injury last week) ready to go. Men of Steel 44-15-1 “over”

   last 60at Heinz. (06-SAN DIEGO -3' 23-13...SR: Pittsburgh 19-8)

   *Dallas 26 - WASHINGTON 23—It’s not quite an elimination game for

   Dallas, but Cowboys’ wobbling playoff hopes (and HC Phillips’ continued

   employment) can’t afford another divisional loss and a season sweep vs.

   Redskins. With Tony Romo expected back—plus healthier Felix Jones & JasonWitten to go with recently-acquired WR Roy Williams—must expect supreme

   effort after much-needed bye week. Washington QB Jason Campbell (finally

   threw two ints.!) proved mortal two weeks ago vs. Steelers. TV—NBC

   (08-Wash. 26-DAL. 24...W.22-21 W.34/164 D.11/44 D.28/47/1/300 W.20/31/0/220 W.0 D.0)

   (07-DAL. 28-Wash. 23...W.28-19 D.25/72 W.17/62 W.34/55/1/361 D.22/32/1/287 D.0 W.1)

   (07-WASH. 27-Dal. 6...W.22-7 W.37/131 D.16/1 W.22/31/0/223 D.14/27/1/146 W.2 D.0)

   (08-Wash. +10' 26-24; 07-DALLAS -10' 28-23, WASH. -9 27-6...SR: Dallas 56-39-2)

   MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17

   *Cleveland 24 - BUFFALO 20—Cleveland has blown big leads at home in

   recent weeks, but Browns have covered their last 3 away. Brady Quinn (66%,

   2 TDs) appeared quite ready to the lead attack in his first start vs. Denver.

   Meanwhile, worst-case scenario materializing for fading Buffalo, with defensive

   injuries mounting, running game bottled up, and 2nd-year QB Trent Edwards (2

   picks last week at N.E.) unable to hit big gainers. CABLE TV—ESPN

   (07-CLEVE. 8-Buf. 0...C.16-11 C.37/174 B.32/108 C.9/24/0/130 B.13/33/0/124 C.0 B.0)

   (07-CLEVELAND -5' 8-0...SR: Cleveland 9-5)

   

   posted by phantom

   Nov. 12 2008 3:06pm
10. 0 likes

    Red Sheet 11/13--11/17

    WISCONSIN 41 - Minnesota 13 - (3:30 EST) -- Line opened at Wisconsin minus 13, and is now minus 14.

    Floundering Badgers certainly have turned it all around the past 3 weeks, with their tried &

    true overland game providing the impetus. Check a combined 637-142 RY edge the past 2

    weeks, & an 800-230 RY edge the past 3 weeks. LW, they held a 308 RY edge over Indy,

    with Gilreath an amazing 168 yds on only 8 carries: 21.0 ypr! And their 281-25 edge over

    MichiganSt is still stupefying. Thus a team that is clicking on all cylinders, vs a Minny

    squad, which has seen its bubble pop, with a 452-151 RY deficit last 2 wks. Lay it!

    RATING: WISCONSIN 89

    UTEP 50 - Smu 24 - (9:00) -- Line opened at Utep minus 9, and is now minus 10. Quite frankly, the line on

    this one seems at least a TD short. The Mustangs enter this contest with a 1-9 record, while

    owning, not only the nation's worst defense, but also its worst running game (try a 306-38

    RY deficit in last week's home loss to Memphis). Sure, they can fling it (15th passing "O"),

    but now QB Mitchell is ailing (shoulder). The Miners still have a shot at a bowl slot, altho

    their mission is difficult, thus full focus here. QB Vittatoe is in off a 5-TD game, & note Utep

    containing La-Lafayette's 300 Rypg offense, in that one. Miners roll.

    RATING: UTEP 89

    NEVADA 45 - San Jose State 20 - (4:00) -- Line opened at Nevada minus 14½, and is still minus 14½. We

    have ridden the Spartans as hosts, over the past 3 years, with huge success, but not any

    more. In off managing a meager 6 FDs &148 total yds, while hosting a LaTech team, which

    entered as one of the nation's top "go-against" visiting squads. Now SJSt takes to the road,

    where it had a 220-106 RY deficit (9½ pt spread loss), in its last guest shot, at Idaho, no less

    (Vandals: #116, #117, #113 in total, scoring, rushing "D"). 'Pack in off 600 yd effort in rout of

    Fresno, with a 2,085-401 RY edge in last 6 games. Throw in revenge.

    RATING: NEVADA 88

    Nebraska 44 - KANSAS STATE 24 - (3:30 -- Line opened at Nebraska minus 6, and is now minus 6½. Fastfalling

    'Cats in search of an defense, having allowed 151 pts in their last 3 games. Of

    course, those opponents were named Oklahoma, Kansas, & Missouri, but if they are looking

    for a respite, the 'Huskers hardly provide it, as they've scored at least 30 pts in 11 of their

    last 13 games, with one of their 2 misses, a 28-pt effort vs mighty Oklahoma. A year ago,

    Nebraska QB Ganz set school records with 510 PYs & 7 TDs in its 73-31 rout of the Wildcats,

    & QBs seem to repeat their performances the following yr. All Huskers.

    RATING: NEBRASKA 88

    FLORIDA 48 - South Carolina 14 - (3:30) -- Line opened at Florida minus 23, and is now minus 21. Love

    the 2-pt drop in the spot on this one. Sure, Spurrier wants this one above all others, & he

    has always been been a superb dog (5-1 ATS as double digit pup). And his 3rd-rated

    defense hasn't allowed any of its last 11 opponents to top 24 pts, a streak which stretches

    back to last year's meeting, when the Gators dropped 51 on the Gamecocks, a 13-pt road

    cover for Florida. Simply put, Florida is nearly unstoppable, with a 243-57 pt edge since its

    loss to OleMiss (49-11 ppg). A perfect leader in Tebow, to boot. They have it all.

    RATING: FLORIDA 88

    JACKSONVILLE 20 - Tennessee 16 - (4:15) -- Line opened at Tennessee minus 3, and is still minus 3.

    What a match this should be. The Titans, of course, are the only perfect squad left in the

    NFL. Not only do they carry a 9-0 SU record, but have tasted defeat just once, in the all

    important battle vs the oddsmakers, & that by a mere 1½ pts in their OT win over Green

    Bay. They rank 3rd in rushing "O", but have been held below 90 RYs 4 times, so not to be

    trusted. The Jags enter off a 7-sack performance, with their formerly vaunted overland gm

    finally clicking, & Garrard approaching his '07 level. Division revenge rears its head.

    RATING: JACKSONVILLE 88

    NEAR CHOICES (Rated 87): Baylor, AirForce, PennSt, NotreDame - NFL: Jets, Bears, Texans, Browns

    LINE MOVES (from largest to smallest moves): ArizonaSt (-33 to -36½); OhioSt (-7½ to -10); UNLV (-7 to

    -9); SoCaro (+23 to +21); Navy (+4½ to +3); NewMexico (+2½ to +1); WestMich (-14 to -15½); SoMiss (Pick

    to -1½) - NFL: Oakland (+12 to +10½); NYGiants (-5 to -6½); Houston (+9½ to +8½) - TIME CHANGES:

    Alabama/MissSt: now 7:45; Georgia/Auburn: 12:30; Jacksonville/Tennessee: 4:15 - KEY INJURIES: CMich

    QB LeFevour (ankle) probable; Indiana QB Lewis (ankle) ??; Indiana QB Chappell (head) probable; Kansas

    QB Reesing (leg) probable; Nebraska QB Ganz (leg) probable; OregonSt QB Moevao (shoulder) probable;

    Purdue QB Painter (shoulder) ??; SanJoseSt RB Davis (ankle) ??; SMU QB Mitchell (shoulder) ??; SoMiss

    RB Fletcher (hamstring) ??; Stanford RB Gerhart (hamstring) probable; Troy QB Hampton (knee) out; Tulane

    RB Anderson (shoulder) out; UNLV QB Clayton (knee) out; VaTech QB Taylor (ankle) ??; WakeForest

    RB Adams (ankle) ??; WestenKy QB Wolke (back) ?? - NFL: Chicago QB Orton (ankle) ??; Dallas QB

    Romo (finger) probable; Denver RB Young (groin) doubtful; Detroit QB Orlovsky (thumb) out; Houston QB

    Schaub (knee) out; KansasCity RB Johnson (suspension) probable; NewOrleans RB Bush (knee) ??; Oakland

    QB Russell (knee) ??; Pittsburgh RB Parker (shoulder) ??; Seattle QB Hasselbeck (back) probable;

    

    posted by phantom

    Nov. 14 2008 2:00pm
11. 0 likes

    Nelly's

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    RATING 5 TEXAS (-13½) over Kansas

    RATING 4 COLORADO STATE (PK) over New Mexico

    RATING 3 KANSAS STATE (+6½) over Nebraska

    RATING 2 EAST CAROLINA (+2½) over Southern Miss

    RATING 2 OREGON STATE (-3) over California

    RATING 1 VANDERBILT (+4) over Kentucky

    RATING 1 NEW MEXICO STATE (+15) over Fresno State

    WEDENESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2008

    Temple (-2½) KENT STATE 7:00 PM

    The Flashes have one of the top rushing offenses in the nation but it

    has not translated into wins. Kent has played a weak schedule but

    the defense is allowing over 400 yards per game. Kent owns just

    one ATS win all season long, whereas a veteran Temple squad is 6-

    2 ATS. Temple does not post great offensive numbers but solid

    defense and strong special teams play has kept the Owls very

    competitive. Temple is 3-6 but two losses came in OT and the Owls

    are allowing less than 20 points per game. Kent has just three

    covers in the last 15 lined home games. TEMPLE BY 6

    NORTHERN ILLINOIS (-3) Central Michigan 7:00PM

    Northern Illinois is an improved team this season but none of the five

    wins came against quality teams. Central Michigan has owned MAC

    games in recent years and coming off a bye week the Chippewas

    will be ready to deliver. Given NIU’s success in this series there will

    be no overlooking this game for next week’s big game against Ball

    State. Northern Illinois has had success as a home underdog but

    Central Michigan has taken care of business in conference play for

    the most part though there have been some close calls. Northern

    Illinois has taken a step forwards but not enough. CM BY 7

    THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2008

    AKRON (-2½) Buffalo 6:00 PM

    Both teams won big in early week games last week and with five

    wins each, this could be a potential bowl bid elimination game for

    two fringe postseason candidates. Through fairly similar schedules

    Buffalo has a slight edge on defense while Akron has been a bit

    more productive offensively. This is the final game for the Rubber

    Bowl stadium in Akron but Buffalo has the more impressive resume

    this season. The Bulls are also 14-5 ATS on the road the last three

    years including 4-0 this year. BUFFALO BY 6

    MIAMI, FL (-4) Virginia Tech 6:45 PM

    The Hokies had a huge day on the ground last week but this could

    be a tough situation facing a second straight Thursday game against

    a rested Hurricanes squad. Miami has won four straight games and

    the defensive numbers are among the best in the ACC, allowing just

    286 yards per game. Virginia Tech crushed Miami last season 44-14

    but the Hokies have not had great success on the road this season.

    Look for Miami to force Virginia Tech to throw the ball and the

    passing game results have not been positive for the Hokies this

    season. Virginia Tech has been a strong home team but the value is

    with Miami particularly after a bye week while Virginia Tech is

    coming off a dominant national TV win. MIAMI BY 10

    UNLV (-8½) Wyoming 8:00 PM

    Both teams are coming off big wins last week but the magnitude of

    Wyoming’s upset at Tennessee last week should make this a tough

    follow-up game on a short week. This will be the second straight

    road game for the Cowboys and Wyoming is averaging fewer than

    twelve points scored per game this year. The UNLV offense has

    been productive and despite just three S/U wins on the year the

    Runnin’ Rebels have six ATS wins. Wyoming beat UNLV narrowly

    last season but the Cowboys are just 2-11 ATS the last 13 road

    games. UNLV has not had much success in the favorite role but a

    letdown is in order after a huge win for Wyoming. UNLV BY 14

    FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2008

    Cincinnati (-3) LOUISVILLE 7:00 PM

    With the big win last week Cincinnati is in the driver’s seat in the Big

    East with the showdown with Pittsburgh slated for next week.

    Louisville could play spoiler as the Cardinals have beat Cincinnati

    five consecutive seasons. After back-to-back ugly road losses

    Louisville sits at 5-4 and after hitting rock-bottom last week with five

    turnovers, the Cardinals are in need of a big game. Cincinnati was

    badly out-gained last week but still managed to win in OT. Louisville

    has a much stronger running game and one of the top rush

    defenses in the nation and the Cardinals could surprise against a

    good but inconsistent Cincinnati squad. LOUISVILLE BY 4

    SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2008

    PENN STATE (-34) Indiana 11:00 AM

    Indiana is 1-7 S/U and ATS the last eight games and there is little

    left for the Hoosiers to play for after a poor performance in the final

    home game last week. Penn State could be flat after losing its

    perfect start to the season but the Lions should have significant

    advantages in this match-up to make up for any emotional factors.

    Last season Indiana earned a backdoor cover but the Lions have

    had great results in this series since joining the Big Ten. Penn

    State’s offense struggled last week but look for the offense to pour it

    on this week with huge statistical advantages on the season. Penn

    State has had great recent results as big favorites. PSU BY 38

    IOWA (-15) Purdue 11:00 AM

    Last week Iowa gave a big sigh of relief to many fans in Big 12 and

    SEC country as the Big Ten was likely knocked out of BCS title

    game contention. Iowa is a solid team to take in the underdog role at

    home but the Hawkeyes are just 6-12 the last three years as home

    favorites. Purdue has played one of the toughest schedules of any

    Big Ten team and the despite the disappointing year there have

    been some competitive efforts against quality teams. Purdue’s

    defense has had respectable numbers for the most part and after

    such a huge win last week Iowa will likely be a little flat coming out

    the gate this week. Iowa clinched bowl eligibility last week and there

    may be many extra distractions this week coming off the upset and

    now in the final home game. IOWA BY 10

    MICHIGAN (-3) Northwestern 11:00 AM

    Northwestern could not hang with Ohio State last season and

    although the Wildcats have seven wins, few are impressive.

    Michigan has endured a very trying season but there have been two

    wins against decent Big Ten teams. Michigan has covered in eight

    of the past nine meetings between these teams and Northwestern

    has lost outright in 19 of the last 20 trips to Ann Arbor. Despite many

    faults Michigan, owns a strong run defense and Northwestern

    struggles if made one-dimensional. QB play has been an issue for

    Michigan but the edge on the ground should make the difference in

    the final home game at the Big House this year. MICHIGAN BY 10

    WISCONSIN (-14) Minnesota 2:30 PM

    After a brutal start to the Big Ten season Wisconsin is starting to

    play better. The Badgers have won two of the last three and

    probably should have won two weeks ago against Michigan State.

    Wisconsin can still make a bowl game by winning out and Wisconsin

    has won S/U in eleven of the last 13 meetings. After starting 7-1

    Minnesota has dropped two games in a row and the schedule has to

    be questioned for the Gophers. Although Wisconsin’s QB play has

    been suspect the running game can carry the way, posting huge

    numbers in recent weeks . Turnovers have started to turn the other

    way for the Gophers after great fortune early in the year. UW BY 17

    Wake Forest (-4) NC STATE 2:30 PM

    Despite lousy offensive numbers Wake Forest is 4-2 in ACC play

    and currently in first place in the Atlantic division. It has been a

    tough year for NC State but the Wolfpack have covered in six of the

    last seven games. Turnovers were a big boost for Wake Forest last

    week and this has been a very closely contested series in recent

    years. The defensive numbers are solid for Wake Forest but the

    Deacons have not been a team that pulls away from opponents. NC

    State has been a strong late season home underdog and this should

    be a close game in the ACC. WAKE FOREST BY 3

    CLEMSON (-11½) Duke 11:00 AM

    Clemson owns just two wins against FBS teams this season and

    only one ATS win all season. After starting 3-1, Duke has dropped

    four of the last five des pite several competitive efforts. Duke has not

    faced an easy schedule where in contrast Clemson has two FCS

    wins padding what would be terrible offensive statistics on the

    season. Clemson’s loss last week came in a second straight road

    game but the Tigers likely will not find much enthusiasm for this

    homecoming game, given how far below expectations the team has

    performed. Look for Duke to keep pace. CLEMSON BY 4

    North Carolina (-2½) MARYLAND 2:30 PM

    Both teams are 3-2 in ACC play and in the thick of the conference

    race. Maryland has had a few great games this season but the

    Terrapins have not made adjustments well. North Carolina is coming

    off a big win over Georgia Tech last week and the Heels continue to

    excel despite numerous setbacks with injuries and one of the

    toughest schedules in the nation. With RB Scott banged up

    Maryland had no answers on the ground last week and although

    UNC was severely out-gained on the ground last week the Tar

    Heels defense found a way to win. UNC BY 7

    Notre Dame (NL) NAVY @Baltimore, MD 11:00 AM

    In three OTs Navy snapped a losing streak vs. Notre Dame that had

    lasted over four decades. With revenge in mind and coming off a

    misleading shutout loss marred by turnovers Notre Dame should be

    in a good position this week. Navy has had two weeks to prepare for

    this game and Midshipmen should have a dominant edge on the

    ground but Notre Dame should have one of its best offensive games

    against Navy’s defense which allows over 373 yards per game.

    Notre Dame needs one more win to become bowl eligible and the

    Irish may actually be undervalued. NOTRE DAME BY 13

    Connecticut (-10) SYRACUSE 6:00 PM

    The Orange could not hold an early lead last week falling to just 2-7

    on the year. The bye week should help Connecticut to heal after

    some key injuries in recent weeks but the road team has lost all four

    meetings of this series. Statistically the Huskies appear to have

    several major advantages in this match-up but Connecticut has

    played a much easier schedule and the Huskies have not been the

    same team away from home, including owing just one road ATS win

    this season. Syracuse has posted several respectable efforts in

    recent weeks despite ugly numbers. CONNECTICUT BY 7

    ALABAMA (-19½) Mississippi State 11:30 AM

    After squeaking out an OT win last week in a highly anticipated

    game, Alabama now must face a tricky home game. Alabama has

    clinched the West division and looking ahead to the Auburn game or

    the SEC championship is a possibility. Mississippi State has had two

    weeks to prepare for this game and the Bulldogs have won outright

    the last two years in this series. Mississippi State also owns great

    defensive numbers and the Tide have to be overvalued with the high

    ranking in the polls. Alabama owns horrible recent numbers in the

    home favorite role as well. ALABAMA BY 16

    KENTUCKY (-4) Vanderbilt 7:00 PM

    A familiar season map has played out for Vanderbilt with a hot start

    and now four consecutive losses. Kentucky enters this game off a

    very tough loss, playing Georgia down to the wire. Vanderbilt is one

    game behind Kentucky in overall record but the Commodores have

    more SEC wins and a higher strength of schedule ranking.

    Vanderbilt has lost outright in four straight games in this series but

    the margins have been very close. Both teams have great defensive

    numbers but Kentucky is 2-6 ATS in the last eight home games.

    Given the close call last week and Vanderbilt’s losing streak there

    will be value with the dog in a fairly even match-up. VANDY BY 4

    Texas A&M (NL) BAYLOR 3:00 PM

    In terms of recent program prestige A&M has a big edge but the

    reality is that these teams have very similar resumes on the season

    and Baylor actually may have an edge. Baylor’s schedule has been

    very difficult and the Bears have held its own with covers in six of

    the last eight games despite few S/U wins. The Texas A&M run

    defense has been among the worst nationally, allowing 214 yards

    per game which should play to the strengths of the Baylor offense.

    The Aggies are being out-gained by an average of 96 yards per

    game and every win has been very narrow. Look for Baylor to

    deliver a convincing win in this match-up. BAYLOR BY 14

    New Mexico (PK) COLORADO STATE 1:00 PM

    Last week’s loss knocked the Lobos out of bowl contention and this

    could be a good situation for Colorado State, even though it has

    been a long season. The Rams have a strong history as home

    underdogs with a 23-10-1 record in the last 34 attempts and

    consider that the last two home games for the CSU have come

    against the two of the three elite teams in the conference. Early in

    the year the Rams earned home wins and covers over respectable

    teams with Houston and UNLV before the schedule toughened. New

    Mexico has not won outside the state this season. CSU BY 10

    WESTERN MICHIGAN (-15½) Toledo 1:00 PM

    Both MAC squads own wins over Big Ten teams this year for an

    impressive showing by the conference. After Toledo knocked off

    Michigan they were smoked the following week so this could be a

    problematic spot for the Broncos coming off the upset over Illinois.

    Western Michigan was out-gained last week and the Broncos have

    been a terrible ATS team as favorites, going 3-11 in the last 14

    instances. Western Michigan has much better overall team statistics

    but they have faced a weaker ranked schedule. Toledo has just two

    wins but owns solid success in this series. WESTERN BY 11

    LOUISIANA TECH (-12½) Utah State 1:30 PM

    Sitting at 2-8 Utah State appears like one of the worst teams in the

    nation but the schedule has been tough. Utah State was favored just

    once all season long yet managed two outright wins and the Aggies

    were not typically an easy team to pull away from. Louisiana Tech

    gave its bowl hopes new life with back-to-back impressive wins,

    shocking San Jose State with a shutout win last week. The formula

    has been simple for the Bulldogs, run the ball and stop the run.

    Coming off back-to-back big conference wins this could be a

    letdown spot as Louisiana Tech will be a solid favorite in this matchup

    and Utah State is not as bad as they appear. LA TECH BY 7

    SOUTHERN MISS (-2½) East Carolina 2:00 PM

    The Pirates are now 6-3 and will be back in the post-season but

    there has been considerable drama the past two weeks. Southern

    Miss has put together back-to-back wins against two-win teams and

    the Eagles have been plus eight in turnovers in those two games.

    Statistically East Carolina has dominated the past two weeks

    despite needing OT for the victories and the changes to the

    offensive game plan appear to be settling in. Southern Miss beat

    East Carolina last season but a lot has changed for both programs

    and this should actually be a mismatch. EAST CAROLINA BY 14

    TULANE (-5) Uab 2:00 PM

    After a promising start to the season Tulane has lost five straight

    and injuries have decimated the units on both sides of the ball. UAB

    owns a surprising win over Marshall this year but the Blazers have

    covered in just two games this year. After allowing 70 points in the

    last game the bye week may not be able to solve all the problems

    for UAB. Tulane has played a tougher schedule and has been much

    more competitive aside from a few rough games. UAB is 0-18 S/U

    the last three seasons in road games. TULANE BY 13

    Texas (-13½) KANSAS 11:30 AM

    After starting the season 7-0 S/U and ATS the Longhorns have now

    dropped three in a row against the number. Kansas has lost outright

    in three of the last four games and the two remaining games will be

    very tough. Kansas has not defeated Texas in 70 years and through

    a tougher schedule the Longhorns have posted huge numbers.

    Texas is averaging 44 points per game and the defense has been

    tough against the run. Both teams have allowed big numbers in the

    air but that is a given considering the powerful passing games in the

    Big 12 this year. Look for the KU slide to continue. TEXAS BY 21

    Missouri (-26½) IOWA STATE 5:30 PM

    With two losses Missouri is not where they hoped at this point in the

    year but the opportunity is still there. Missouri can win out and enter

    the Big 12 title game with a shot at an automatic BCS slot and this

    game can not be taken lightly. Iowa State has lost eight consecutive

    games but this has been a problematic series for the Tigers, with

    two of the last four going to OT and Missouri losing as double-digit

    favorites in the last visit to Ames. Iowa State’s pass defense has

    been even worse than Missouri’s maligned unit and the Cyclones do

    not have the means to keep up in a shootout. MISSOURI BY 31

    OREGON STATE (-3) California 2:30 PM

    The Beavers have three tough games remaining but if they win out

    they will be Pac-10 champions. California could not move the ball

    last week to fall short against USC yet again. Defense has been the

    key for Oregon State, allowing just 295 yards per game and this is a

    tough spot for the Bears. California certainly will not overlook

    Oregon State but this is a tough sandwich spot with rival Stanford up

    next and the hyped USC game last week, making this a second

    straight road game. Oregon State owns very tough home field

    advantage with a 9-3 ATS record in the last twelve. OSU BY 10

    OREGON (-3½) Arizona 5:30 PM

    The Ducks needed a late score to knock off Stanford last week but

    Oregon continues to pile up the wins as one of the elite teams in the

    Pac-10. Arizona has taken a big step this year, finally bowl eligible

    under Coach Stoops. This is a key revenge game for Oregon as last

    season Arizona knocked off what looked like a BCS-bound Ducks

    team, injuring Heisman hopeful Dennis Dixon in the process.

    Arizona may have a slight defensive edge but Oregon’s dominating

    running game that produces over 270 yards per game should carry

    the victory. This will be the second week in a row in the northwest

    for Arizona, always a tough situation. OREGON BY 13

    Ucla (-7½) WASHINGTON 9:15 PM

    The Huskies are 0-9 with horrendous numbers on the year and the

    morale is very low for the team and university. Washington has

    played by far the toughest schedule in the nation however so in

    reality Washington may not be as bad as it seems. Washington is 1-

    8 ATS on the season but at some point the go-against value will

    plateau and the next two weeks feature a more level playing field.

    This will be Coach Willingham’s final home game and UCLA has

    had several dud efforts this season as well. Both defenses are

    giving up a ton of points and the Bruins are a tough to trust,

    considering UCLA has been favored just once all year. UCLA BY 3

    Georgia (-8) AUBURN 2:30 PM

    It has been an incredibly disappointing season for Auburn but the

    two remaining games present redemptive opportunities. Auburn’s

    offense had decent numbers last week but still had three turnovers

    despite playing a FCS team. The Auburn defense has not been as

    strong as initially expected and Auburn has not covered in any game

    since the opening weekend. Georgia is 8-2 but the Bulldogs have

    not been at the elite level that many expected. This will incredibly be

    a fourth consecutive week playing away from home and the

    schedule has caught up to the Bulldogs . GEORGIA BY 7

    Byu (-4) AIR FORCE 2:30 PM

    The Cougars have failed to cover in six consecutive games and

    quietly Air Force is 8-2 on the season, with just one loss in

    conference play. BYU has had great success in this series with

    convincing wins the past four years and a 15-6 ATS record the last

    21 meetings. Air Force should own a solid rushing edge in the game

    but this has not been a good match-up for the Falcons. Both teams

    have faced very weak schedules but BYU has more potential to post

    strong offensive numbers and has the series edge. BYU BY 10

    FLORIDA (-21½) South Carolina 2:30 PM

    Many consider Florida to be the best team in the country and

    through a challenging schedule the Gators have posted great

    numbers, with the offense starting to click in recent games. The

    South Carolina defense has been extraordinarily tough this season,

    particularly against the pass but the Gamcocks have not been able

    to knock off any of the elite teams on the schedule despite each loss

    coming in a very tight game. Florida has been dominant as a home

    favorite and the Gators have won outright in 15 of the last 16

    meetings between these teams. FLORIDA BY 24

    NEVADA (NL) San Jose State 3:00 PM

    San Jose State owns a solid record but the schedule has been weak

    and it showed last week with a shutout loss at home. Nevada is

    coming off a huge Friday night performance, knocking off Fresno

    State with a huge rushing game. Nevada is the nation’s leading

    rushing team, averaging 324 yards per game and although the

    defense is allowing 32 points per game the Wolfpack have been a

    solid performer, now just a win away from bowl eligibility. Nevada

    owns dominating spread records at home, including a 14-3 mark in

    the last 17 as home favorites. This is also a revenge game for the

    Wolfpack after a narrow loss at home last year. NEVADA BY 21

    MARSHALL (NL) Central Florida 3:30 PM

    An early lead was erased for UCF last week as the offense could not

    convert third downs. Marshall played competitively against ECU last

    week in an OT loss and the Thundering Herd are a much more

    dangerous team than the record indicates. Central Florida has

    struggled on offense but the defense is capable of being one of the

    top units in the conference with several strong outings this year.

    Marshall can be a tough home team and the Herd has much more

    scoring potential although coming off a tough loss is a concern for

    the team’s emotional state. MARSHALL BY 14

    Boise State (NL) IDAHO 4:00 PM

    Only three more games separate Boise State from a perfect regular

    season but unless Utah stumbles the Broncos likely will not find a

    BCS bowl ticket. Both Idaho schools have faced incredibly weak

    schedules but despite being a heavy favorite in most games Boise

    State has lost ATS just twice this year. Boise State is actually 4-0

    S/U and ATS on the road this season and this will not be an

    intimidating venue for the Broncos. Idaho is just 2-7 in the last nine

    games as home underdogs and although Idaho has had two weeks

    to prepare for this game Boise should cruise. BOISE ST BY 45

    Tulsa (NL) HOUSTON 7:00 PM

    Tulsa beat Houston 56-7 last season and although the Cougars

    have a new coaching staff the game will still be in the memory.

    Tulsa has had a bye week to recover from its first loss of the season

    which can be a problematic situation as teams lack the same focus

    after a major season goal has been defeated. Houston has won four

    of the last five games and the offense is capable of keeping pace

    with the high-powered Tulsa squad. Neither team has played a

    tough schedule but there are FCS teams that have played tougher

    ranked schedules than Tulsa has faced. HOUSTON BY 7

    FRESNO STATE (-15) New Mexico State 4:00 PM

    After opening the season with great promise, Fresno State has

    proceeded to go 0-8 ATS in the last eight games and the Bulldogs

    were outright losers the past two weeks. Bowl eligibility is a question

    right now for a Fresno squad that was considered a BCS bowl

    contender. New Mexico State has failed S/U and ATS each of the

    last four weeks. Fresno State is 3-13 ATS the last 16 home games

    and the horrible defensive numbers will continue to haunt Fresno

    State in what could be another underachieving loss. New Mexico

    State lacks a quality running game but can score. FRESNO BY 6

    Usc (-22) STANFORD 6:00 PM

    The Trojans delivered last week in a big game and this could be

    another tough spot against Stanford after shockingly losing to the

    Cardinal last season as huge favorites. Stanford has five wins but

    must pull a major upset in the next two weeks to gain bowl

    consideration. USC has a bye week next week so there will be no

    loss of focus looking ahead to the Notre Dame game. The USC

    defense has been incredibly dominant allowing just over 200 yards

    per game and an absurd average of 6.67 points per game. Stanford

    can run the ball well but it will be tough to score. USC BY 28

    Nebraska (-6½) KANSAS STATE 2:30 PM

    Through a brutal schedule Nebraska has had mixed results this

    season but last week the Huskers delivered a nice victory. Kansas

    State has announced that a coaching change will be made as the

    Wildcats have struggled to keep pace against the Big 12 this season

    with just one conference win. Last season Nebraska hung 73 points

    on the Wildcats so much like last week’s game had importance for

    Nebraska, this will be a revenge spot for K-State. Nebraska is just 2-

    6 ATS in the last eight meetings in this series and the turnover prone

    Huskers could be in for a tough follow-up game. K-STATE BY 6

    Oklahoma State (-17½) COLORADO 7:00 PM

    The Cowboys were a trendy pick last week catching Texas Tech in a

    possible letdown spot but it was not to be as OSU could not keep

    up. Colorado held on for a narrow win last week but the Buffaloes

    have failed ATS in seven consecutive games. Oklahoma State has

    an explosive offense but this is a very tough schedule spot facing

    the third road game in four weeks and the second straight game

    away from home. Oklahoma State has an incredible ATS record this

    season but the value is gone and the bounce back win will not come

    as easy as many will expect. OKLAHOMA STATE BY 10

    SOUTH FLORIDA (-7½) Rutgers 11:00 AM

    Both teams were considered Big East contenders but it has been a

    disappointing season for both sides. Rutgers started the season 1-5

    but has rebounded with wins in the last three games. South Florida

    has had the reverse occur with a 5-0 start and losses in three of the

    last four. South Florida owns incredible defensive numbers, allowing

    just over 280 yards per game and the offense has been productive

    with average of418 yards per game and over 30 points per game.

    Rutgers has one of the worst running games in the nation despite

    being a great rushing team in recent years. Turnovers have been

    problematic for both teams and value may be back on a USF squad

    that was projected to be the best team in the Big East. USF BY 14

    FLORIDA STATE (-7) Boston College 7:00 PM

    The Seminoles have not been given national power status in several

    years but quietly FSU is 7-2 and tied for first in the competitive ACC

    Atlantic. FSU is 5-12 ATS in the last 17 as home favorites. In a

    horrible weather game then #2 BC lost to Florida State last season

    so this may be a revenge spot for the Eagles despite coming off a

    big win last week against Notre Dame. Florida State’s defense has

    produced great numbers this season but Boston College has not

    been far behind. The key in this game may be Florida State’s

    running game. FSU averages 205 yards per game, an inflated

    number from two FCS wins, but still a much more potent attack than

    BC offers on the ground. FLORIDA STATE BY 10

    Ohio State (-9) ILLINOIS 11:00 AM

    After a Rose Bowl season last year Illinois has taken a step back

    this year, still battling for bowl eligibility. The Illini have potential but

    consistency and turnovers have been problems. Last season Illinois

    won in Columbus to end the Buckeyes undefeated season hopes so

    this will be a big game for both teams. Ohio State is 13-2 the last 15

    games as road favorites and Illinois can be tough to trust, although

    the Illini have not lost consecutive games all season. Illinois can still

    post solid production but turnovers have been a problem. Though

    Ohio State won by a solid margin last week the game was close

    early and the Buckeyes have had trouble with athletic speed

    oriented offenses in recent seasons. OHIO STATE BY 7

    Utah (NL) SAN DIEGO STATE 7:00 PM

    A miraculous win last week keeps the perfect season alive and Utah

    is on track for a BCS bowl bid. The Utes would not be blamed for

    overlooking this game ahead to next week’s critical game against

    BYU. San Diego State could make a strong argument for being the

    worst team in the nation. At 1-9 the Aztecs average 17 points per

    game while allowing 36 points per game while being out-gained by

    an average of 170 yards per game. Utah has solid numbers as a

    road favorite but the line should be out of control considering what is

    at stake and how easily San Diego State has been scored on. Look

    for a Utah win but this is not a favorable spot. UTAH BY 28

    UTEP (-9) Smu 8:00 PM

    The Miners are 1-9 in the last ten chances as home favorites but

    UTEP was a convincing winner last week as a solid underdog.

    Turnovers were key for UTEP as the defense still allowed close to

    400 yards and on the season the Miners are among the worst

    nationally on the defensive side, averaging 473 yards per game

    allowed. Both of these teams feature productive passing games but

    SMU’s offense is allowing 485 yards per game. SMU has played the

    more challenging schedule and despite a 1-9 S/U record the

    Mustangs have been fairly competitive in most games as four of the

    last six losses came by single-digits. UTEP BY 7

    ARIZONA STATE (NL) Washington State 4:30 PM

    Despite another lopsided loss Washington State did at least find the

    end zone a few times last week. The Cougars only had 208 yards of

    offense so the 28-point effort was a bit misleading. Arizona State

    snapped an ugly six-game losing streak last week and this should

    be a great opportunity for another win. Arizona State is actually 8-2

    ATS in the last ten instances as double-digit favorites and although

    the overall numbers are not good on offense ASU should deliver a

    solid outing this week. Washington State is allowing over 50 points

    per game and the Cougars also have the worst turnover margin in

    the nation, so little is going right. ARIZONA STATE BY 35

    Middle Tennessee St (-3) W. KENTUCKY 12:00 PM

    Last week’s win was a big one for Middle Tennessee State as the

    Raiders have had a very tight recent series with UL-Monroe.

    Western Kentucky has not been terribly competitive in this

    transitional year and they have failed to cover in all three lined home

    games this season. Western Kentucky had just 216 yards of offense

    last week and the Blue Raider defense has been solid this year,

    particularly against the passing game. Last season Western

    Kentucky beat MTSU so revenge is in order. MTSU BY 13

    UL-Lafayette (-2) FLORIDA ATLANTIC 3:00 PM

    UL-Lafayette fell to 0-4 in non-conference games this season but the

    Ragin’ Cajuns are still undefeated in Sun Belt play. Last year’s

    conference champion Florida Atlantic is in need of a big win this

    week as conference play started out poorly. Last season Lafayette

    took FAU to OT but came up just short. Florida Atlantic played a

    brutal early season schedule and should not be counted out of the

    conference race yet. ULL has great rushing numbers but the

    conference schedule has been favorable so far. FAU BY 10

    MISSISSIPPI (-21) UL-Monroe 5:00 PM

    Ole Miss has had two weeks to ready for this game and the Rebels

    are coming off back-to-back SEC wins. At 5-4 it has been a solid

    first year for Coach Nutt and a strong finish and a bowl bid is still

    very possible. A big game at LSU is on deck but UL-Monroe will not

    get overlooked after the Warhawks knocked off Alabama last

    season. UL-M suffered a tough loss last week in a close game and it

    is hard to see this game staying close for long. The statistics do not

    look that appealing but Ole Miss has gone through the toughest part

    of the schedule already. OLE MISS BY 21

    LSU (-19) Troy 7:00 PM

    This make-up game provides some intrigue as Troy has been

    among the top Sun Belt teams in recent years. LSU enters this

    game off a very disappointing loss in last week’s big game. Troy is

    less threatening with the injuries suffered but this could be a closer

    game than expected and Troy has delivered a few major upsets in

    recent seasons. LSU BY 14

    

    posted by phantom

    Nov. 14 2008 2:01pm
12. 0 likes

    Nelly's

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    RATING 5 TEXAS (-13½) over Kansas

    RATING 4 COLORADO STATE (PK) over New Mexico

    RATING 3 KANSAS STATE (+6½) over Nebraska

    RATING 2 EAST CAROLINA (+2½) over Southern Miss

    RATING 2 OREGON STATE (-3) over California

    RATING 1 VANDERBILT (+4) over Kentucky

    RATING 1 NEW MEXICO STATE (+15) over Fresno State

    WEDENESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2008

    Temple (-2½) KENT STATE 7:00 PM

    The Flashes have one of the top rushing offenses in the nation but it

    has not translated into wins. Kent has played a weak schedule but

    the defense is allowing over 400 yards per game. Kent owns just

    one ATS win all season long, whereas a veteran Temple squad is 6-

    2 ATS. Temple does not post great offensive numbers but solid

    defense and strong special teams play has kept the Owls very

    competitive. Temple is 3-6 but two losses came in OT and the Owls

    are allowing less than 20 points per game. Kent has just three

    covers in the last 15 lined home games. TEMPLE BY 6

    NORTHERN ILLINOIS (-3) Central Michigan 7:00PM

    Northern Illinois is an improved team this season but none of the five

    wins came against quality teams. Central Michigan has owned MAC

    games in recent years and coming off a bye week the Chippewas

    will be ready to deliver. Given NIU’s success in this series there will

    be no overlooking this game for next week’s big game against Ball

    State. Northern Illinois has had success as a home underdog but

    Central Michigan has taken care of business in conference play for

    the most part though there have been some close calls. Northern

    Illinois has taken a step forwards but not enough. CM BY 7

    THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2008

    AKRON (-2½) Buffalo 6:00 PM

    Both teams won big in early week games last week and with five

    wins each, this could be a potential bowl bid elimination game for

    two fringe postseason candidates. Through fairly similar schedules

    Buffalo has a slight edge on defense while Akron has been a bit

    more productive offensively. This is the final game for the Rubber

    Bowl stadium in Akron but Buffalo has the more impressive resume

    this season. The Bulls are also 14-5 ATS on the road the last three

    years including 4-0 this year. BUFFALO BY 6

    MIAMI, FL (-4) Virginia Tech 6:45 PM

    The Hokies had a huge day on the ground last week but this could

    be a tough situation facing a second straight Thursday game against

    a rested Hurricanes squad. Miami has won four straight games and

    the defensive numbers are among the best in the ACC, allowing just

    286 yards per game. Virginia Tech crushed Miami last season 44-14

    but the Hokies have not had great success on the road this season.

    Look for Miami to force Virginia Tech to throw the ball and the

    passing game results have not been positive for the Hokies this

    season. Virginia Tech has been a strong home team but the value is

    with Miami particularly after a bye week while Virginia Tech is

    coming off a dominant national TV win. MIAMI BY 10

    UNLV (-8½) Wyoming 8:00 PM

    Both teams are coming off big wins last week but the magnitude of

    Wyoming’s upset at Tennessee last week should make this a tough

    follow-up game on a short week. This will be the second straight

    road game for the Cowboys and Wyoming is averaging fewer than

    twelve points scored per game this year. The UNLV offense has

    been productive and despite just three S/U wins on the year the

    Runnin’ Rebels have six ATS wins. Wyoming beat UNLV narrowly

    last season but the Cowboys are just 2-11 ATS the last 13 road

    games. UNLV has not had much success in the favorite role but a

    letdown is in order after a huge win for Wyoming. UNLV BY 14

    FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2008

    Cincinnati (-3) LOUISVILLE 7:00 PM

    With the big win last week Cincinnati is in the driver’s seat in the Big

    East with the showdown with Pittsburgh slated for next week.

    Louisville could play spoiler as the Cardinals have beat Cincinnati

    five consecutive seasons. After back-to-back ugly road losses

    Louisville sits at 5-4 and after hitting rock-bottom last week with five

    turnovers, the Cardinals are in need of a big game. Cincinnati was

    badly out-gained last week but still managed to win in OT. Louisville

    has a much stronger running game and one of the top rush

    defenses in the nation and the Cardinals could surprise against a

    good but inconsistent Cincinnati squad. LOUISVILLE BY 4

    SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2008

    PENN STATE (-34) Indiana 11:00 AM

    Indiana is 1-7 S/U and ATS the last eight games and there is little

    left for the Hoosiers to play for after a poor performance in the final

    home game last week. Penn State could be flat after losing its

    perfect start to the season but the Lions should have significant

    advantages in this match-up to make up for any emotional factors.

    Last season Indiana earned a backdoor cover but the Lions have

    had great results in this series since joining the Big Ten. Penn

    State’s offense struggled last week but look for the offense to pour it

    on this week with huge statistical advantages on the season. Penn

    State has had great recent results as big favorites. PSU BY 38

    IOWA (-15) Purdue 11:00 AM

    Last week Iowa gave a big sigh of relief to many fans in Big 12 and

    SEC country as the Big Ten was likely knocked out of BCS title

    game contention. Iowa is a solid team to take in the underdog role at

    home but the Hawkeyes are just 6-12 the last three years as home

    favorites. Purdue has played one of the toughest schedules of any

    Big Ten team and the despite the disappointing year there have

    been some competitive efforts against quality teams. Purdue’s

    defense has had respectable numbers for the most part and after

    such a huge win last week Iowa will likely be a little flat coming out

    the gate this week. Iowa clinched bowl eligibility last week and there

    may be many extra distractions this week coming off the upset and

    now in the final home game. IOWA BY 10

    MICHIGAN (-3) Northwestern 11:00 AM

    Northwestern could not hang with Ohio State last season and

    although the Wildcats have seven wins, few are impressive.

    Michigan has endured a very trying season but there have been two

    wins against decent Big Ten teams. Michigan has covered in eight

    of the past nine meetings between these teams and Northwestern

    has lost outright in 19 of the last 20 trips to Ann Arbor. Despite many

    faults Michigan, owns a strong run defense and Northwestern

    struggles if made one-dimensional. QB play has been an issue for

    Michigan but the edge on the ground should make the difference in

    the final home game at the Big House this year. MICHIGAN BY 10

    WISCONSIN (-14) Minnesota 2:30 PM

    After a brutal start to the Big Ten season Wisconsin is starting to

    play better. The Badgers have won two of the last three and

    probably should have won two weeks ago against Michigan State.

    Wisconsin can still make a bowl game by winning out and Wisconsin

    has won S/U in eleven of the last 13 meetings. After starting 7-1

    Minnesota has dropped two games in a row and the schedule has to

    be questioned for the Gophers. Although Wisconsin’s QB play has

    been suspect the running game can carry the way, posting huge

    numbers in recent weeks . Turnovers have started to turn the other

    way for the Gophers after great fortune early in the year. UW BY 17

    Wake Forest (-4) NC STATE 2:30 PM

    Despite lousy offensive numbers Wake Forest is 4-2 in ACC play

    and currently in first place in the Atlantic division. It has been a

    tough year for NC State but the Wolfpack have covered in six of the

    last seven games. Turnovers were a big boost for Wake Forest last

    week and this has been a very closely contested series in recent

    years. The defensive numbers are solid for Wake Forest but the

    Deacons have not been a team that pulls away from opponents. NC

    State has been a strong late season home underdog and this should

    be a close game in the ACC. WAKE FOREST BY 3

    CLEMSON (-11½) Duke 11:00 AM

    Clemson owns just two wins against FBS teams this season and

    only one ATS win all season. After starting 3-1, Duke has dropped

    four of the last five des pite several competitive efforts. Duke has not

    faced an easy schedule where in contrast Clemson has two FCS

    wins padding what would be terrible offensive statistics on the

    season. Clemson’s loss last week came in a second straight road

    game but the Tigers likely will not find much enthusiasm for this

    homecoming game, given how far below expectations the team has

    performed. Look for Duke to keep pace. CLEMSON BY 4

    North Carolina (-2½) MARYLAND 2:30 PM

    Both teams are 3-2 in ACC play and in the thick of the conference

    race. Maryland has had a few great games this season but the

    Terrapins have not made adjustments well. North Carolina is coming

    off a big win over Georgia Tech last week and the Heels continue to

    excel despite numerous setbacks with injuries and one of the

    toughest schedules in the nation. With RB Scott banged up

    Maryland had no answers on the ground last week and although

    UNC was severely out-gained on the ground last week the Tar

    Heels defense found a way to win. UNC BY 7

    Notre Dame (NL) NAVY @Baltimore, MD 11:00 AM

    In three OTs Navy snapped a losing streak vs. Notre Dame that had

    lasted over four decades. With revenge in mind and coming off a

    misleading shutout loss marred by turnovers Notre Dame should be

    in a good position this week. Navy has had two weeks to prepare for

    this game and Midshipmen should have a dominant edge on the

    ground but Notre Dame should have one of its best offensive games

    against Navy’s defense which allows over 373 yards per game.

    Notre Dame needs one more win to become bowl eligible and the

    Irish may actually be undervalued. NOTRE DAME BY 13

    Connecticut (-10) SYRACUSE 6:00 PM

    The Orange could not hold an early lead last week falling to just 2-7

    on the year. The bye week should help Connecticut to heal after

    some key injuries in recent weeks but the road team has lost all four

    meetings of this series. Statistically the Huskies appear to have

    several major advantages in this match-up but Connecticut has

    played a much easier schedule and the Huskies have not been the

    same team away from home, including owing just one road ATS win

    this season. Syracuse has posted several respectable efforts in

    recent weeks despite ugly numbers. CONNECTICUT BY 7

    ALABAMA (-19½) Mississippi State 11:30 AM

    After squeaking out an OT win last week in a highly anticipated

    game, Alabama now must face a tricky home game. Alabama has

    clinched the West division and looking ahead to the Auburn game or

    the SEC championship is a possibility. Mississippi State has had two

    weeks to prepare for this game and the Bulldogs have won outright

    the last two years in this series. Mississippi State also owns great

    defensive numbers and the Tide have to be overvalued with the high

    ranking in the polls. Alabama owns horrible recent numbers in the

    home favorite role as well. ALABAMA BY 16

    KENTUCKY (-4) Vanderbilt 7:00 PM

    A familiar season map has played out for Vanderbilt with a hot start

    and now four consecutive losses. Kentucky enters this game off a

    very tough loss, playing Georgia down to the wire. Vanderbilt is one

    game behind Kentucky in overall record but the Commodores have

    more SEC wins and a higher strength of schedule ranking.

    Vanderbilt has lost outright in four straight games in this series but

    the margins have been very close. Both teams have great defensive

    numbers but Kentucky is 2-6 ATS in the last eight home games.

    Given the close call last week and Vanderbilt’s losing streak there

    will be value with the dog in a fairly even match-up. VANDY BY 4

    Texas A&M (NL) BAYLOR 3:00 PM

    In terms of recent program prestige A&M has a big edge but the

    reality is that these teams have very similar resumes on the season

    and Baylor actually may have an edge. Baylor’s schedule has been

    very difficult and the Bears have held its own with covers in six of

    the last eight games despite few S/U wins. The Texas A&M run

    defense has been among the worst nationally, allowing 214 yards

    per game which should play to the strengths of the Baylor offense.

    The Aggies are being out-gained by an average of 96 yards per

    game and every win has been very narrow. Look for Baylor to

    deliver a convincing win in this match-up. BAYLOR BY 14

    New Mexico (PK) COLORADO STATE 1:00 PM

    Last week’s loss knocked the Lobos out of bowl contention and this

    could be a good situation for Colorado State, even though it has

    been a long season. The Rams have a strong history as home

    underdogs with a 23-10-1 record in the last 34 attempts and

    consider that the last two home games for the CSU have come

    against the two of the three elite teams in the conference. Early in

    the year the Rams earned home wins and covers over respectable

    teams with Houston and UNLV before the schedule toughened. New

    Mexico has not won outside the state this season. CSU BY 10

    WESTERN MICHIGAN (-15½) Toledo 1:00 PM

    Both MAC squads own wins over Big Ten teams this year for an

    impressive showing by the conference. After Toledo knocked off

    Michigan they were smoked the following week so this could be a

    problematic spot for the Broncos coming off the upset over Illinois.

    Western Michigan was out-gained last week and the Broncos have

    been a terrible ATS team as favorites, going 3-11 in the last 14

    instances. Western Michigan has much better overall team statistics

    but they have faced a weaker ranked schedule. Toledo has just two

    wins but owns solid success in this series. WESTERN BY 11

    LOUISIANA TECH (-12½) Utah State 1:30 PM

    Sitting at 2-8 Utah State appears like one of the worst teams in the

    nation but the schedule has been tough. Utah State was favored just

    once all season long yet managed two outright wins and the Aggies

    were not typically an easy team to pull away from. Louisiana Tech

    gave its bowl hopes new life with back-to-back impressive wins,

    shocking San Jose State with a shutout win last week. The formula

    has been simple for the Bulldogs, run the ball and stop the run.

    Coming off back-to-back big conference wins this could be a

    letdown spot as Louisiana Tech will be a solid favorite in this matchup

    and Utah State is not as bad as they appear. LA TECH BY 7

    SOUTHERN MISS (-2½) East Carolina 2:00 PM

    The Pirates are now 6-3 and will be back in the post-season but

    there has been considerable drama the past two weeks. Southern

    Miss has put together back-to-back wins against two-win teams and

    the Eagles have been plus eight in turnovers in those two games.

    Statistically East Carolina has dominated the past two weeks

    despite needing OT for the victories and the changes to the

    offensive game plan appear to be settling in. Southern Miss beat

    East Carolina last season but a lot has changed for both programs

    and this should actually be a mismatch. EAST CAROLINA BY 14

    TULANE (-5) Uab 2:00 PM

    After a promising start to the season Tulane has lost five straight

    and injuries have decimated the units on both sides of the ball. UAB

    owns a surprising win over Marshall this year but the Blazers have

    covered in just two games this year. After allowing 70 points in the

    last game the bye week may not be able to solve all the problems

    for UAB. Tulane has played a tougher schedule and has been much

    more competitive aside from a few rough games. UAB is 0-18 S/U

    the last three seasons in road games. TULANE BY 13

    Texas (-13½) KANSAS 11:30 AM

    After starting the season 7-0 S/U and ATS the Longhorns have now

    dropped three in a row against the number. Kansas has lost outright

    in three of the last four games and the two remaining games will be

    very tough. Kansas has not defeated Texas in 70 years and through

    a tougher schedule the Longhorns have posted huge numbers.

    Texas is averaging 44 points per game and the defense has been

    tough against the run. Both teams have allowed big numbers in the

    air but that is a given considering the powerful passing games in the

    Big 12 this year. Look for the KU slide to continue. TEXAS BY 21

    Missouri (-26½) IOWA STATE 5:30 PM

    With two losses Missouri is not where they hoped at this point in the

    year but the opportunity is still there. Missouri can win out and enter

    the Big 12 title game with a shot at an automatic BCS slot and this

    game can not be taken lightly. Iowa State has lost eight consecutive

    games but this has been a problematic series for the Tigers, with

    two of the last four going to OT and Missouri losing as double-digit

    favorites in the last visit to Ames. Iowa State’s pass defense has

    been even worse than Missouri’s maligned unit and the Cyclones do

    not have the means to keep up in a shootout. MISSOURI BY 31

    OREGON STATE (-3) California 2:30 PM

    The Beavers have three tough games remaining but if they win out

    they will be Pac-10 champions. California could not move the ball

    last week to fall short against USC yet again. Defense has been the

    key for Oregon State, allowing just 295 yards per game and this is a

    tough spot for the Bears. California certainly will not overlook

    Oregon State but this is a tough sandwich spot with rival Stanford up

    next and the hyped USC game last week, making this a second

    straight road game. Oregon State owns very tough home field

    advantage with a 9-3 ATS record in the last twelve. OSU BY 10

    OREGON (-3½) Arizona 5:30 PM

    The Ducks needed a late score to knock off Stanford last week but

    Oregon continues to pile up the wins as one of the elite teams in the

    Pac-10. Arizona has taken a big step this year, finally bowl eligible

    under Coach Stoops. This is a key revenge game for Oregon as last

    season Arizona knocked off what looked like a BCS-bound Ducks

    team, injuring Heisman hopeful Dennis Dixon in the process.

    Arizona may have a slight defensive edge but Oregon’s dominating

    running game that produces over 270 yards per game should carry

    the victory. This will be the second week in a row in the northwest

    for Arizona, always a tough situation. OREGON BY 13

    Ucla (-7½) WASHINGTON 9:15 PM

    The Huskies are 0-9 with horrendous numbers on the year and the

    morale is very low for the team and university. Washington has

    played by far the toughest schedule in the nation however so in

    reality Washington may not be as bad as it seems. Washington is 1-

    8 ATS on the season but at some point the go-against value will

    plateau and the next two weeks feature a more level playing field.

    This will be Coach Willingham’s final home game and UCLA has

    had several dud efforts this season as well. Both defenses are

    giving up a ton of points and the Bruins are a tough to trust,

    considering UCLA has been favored just once all year. UCLA BY 3

    Georgia (-8) AUBURN 2:30 PM

    It has been an incredibly disappointing season for Auburn but the

    two remaining games present redemptive opportunities. Auburn’s

    offense had decent numbers last week but still had three turnovers

    despite playing a FCS team. The Auburn defense has not been as

    strong as initially expected and Auburn has not covered in any game

    since the opening weekend. Georgia is 8-2 but the Bulldogs have

    not been at the elite level that many expected. This will incredibly be

    a fourth consecutive week playing away from home and the

    schedule has caught up to the Bulldogs . GEORGIA BY 7

    Byu (-4) AIR FORCE 2:30 PM

    The Cougars have failed to cover in six consecutive games and

    quietly Air Force is 8-2 on the season, with just one loss in

    conference play. BYU has had great success in this series with

    convincing wins the past four years and a 15-6 ATS record the last

    21 meetings. Air Force should own a solid rushing edge in the game

    but this has not been a good match-up for the Falcons. Both teams

    have faced very weak schedules but BYU has more potential to post

    strong offensive numbers and has the series edge. BYU BY 10

    FLORIDA (-21½) South Carolina 2:30 PM

    Many consider Florida to be the best team in the country and

    through a challenging schedule the Gators have posted great

    numbers, with the offense starting to click in recent games. The

    South Carolina defense has been extraordinarily tough this season,

    particularly against the pass but the Gamcocks have not been able

    to knock off any of the elite teams on the schedule despite each loss

    coming in a very tight game. Florida has been dominant as a home

    favorite and the Gators have won outright in 15 of the last 16

    meetings between these teams. FLORIDA BY 24

    NEVADA (NL) San Jose State 3:00 PM

    San Jose State owns a solid record but the schedule has been weak

    and it showed last week with a shutout loss at home. Nevada is

    coming off a huge Friday night performance, knocking off Fresno

    State with a huge rushing game. Nevada is the nation’s leading

    rushing team, averaging 324 yards per game and although the

    defense is allowing 32 points per game the Wolfpack have been a

    solid performer, now just a win away from bowl eligibility. Nevada

    owns dominating spread records at home, including a 14-3 mark in

    the last 17 as home favorites. This is also a revenge game for the

    Wolfpack after a narrow loss at home last year. NEVADA BY 21

    MARSHALL (NL) Central Florida 3:30 PM

    An early lead was erased for UCF last week as the offense could not

    convert third downs. Marshall played competitively against ECU last

    week in an OT loss and the Thundering Herd are a much more

    dangerous team than the record indicates. Central Florida has

    struggled on offense but the defense is capable of being one of the

    top units in the conference with several strong outings this year.

    Marshall can be a tough home team and the Herd has much more

    scoring potential although coming off a tough loss is a concern for

    the team’s emotional state. MARSHALL BY 14

    Boise State (NL) IDAHO 4:00 PM

    Only three more games separate Boise State from a perfect regular

    season but unless Utah stumbles the Broncos likely will not find a

    BCS bowl ticket. Both Idaho schools have faced incredibly weak

    schedules but despite being a heavy favorite in most games Boise

    State has lost ATS just twice this year. Boise State is actually 4-0

    S/U and ATS on the road this season and this will not be an

    intimidating venue for the Broncos. Idaho is just 2-7 in the last nine

    games as home underdogs and although Idaho has had two weeks

    to prepare for this game Boise should cruise. BOISE ST BY 45

    Tulsa (NL) HOUSTON 7:00 PM

    Tulsa beat Houston 56-7 last season and although the Cougars

    have a new coaching staff the game will still be in the memory.

    Tulsa has had a bye week to recover from its first loss of the season

    which can be a problematic situation as teams lack the same focus

    after a major season goal has been defeated. Houston has won four

    of the last five games and the offense is capable of keeping pace

    with the high-powered Tulsa squad. Neither team has played a

    tough schedule but there are FCS teams that have played tougher

    ranked schedules than Tulsa has faced. HOUSTON BY 7

    FRESNO STATE (-15) New Mexico State 4:00 PM

    After opening the season with great promise, Fresno State has

    proceeded to go 0-8 ATS in the last eight games and the Bulldogs

    were outright losers the past two weeks. Bowl eligibility is a question

    right now for a Fresno squad that was considered a BCS bowl

    contender. New Mexico State has failed S/U and ATS each of the

    last four weeks. Fresno State is 3-13 ATS the last 16 home games

    and the horrible defensive numbers will continue to haunt Fresno

    State in what could be another underachieving loss. New Mexico

    State lacks a quality running game but can score. FRESNO BY 6

    Usc (-22) STANFORD 6:00 PM

    The Trojans delivered last week in a big game and this could be

    another tough spot against Stanford after shockingly losing to the

    Cardinal last season as huge favorites. Stanford has five wins but

    must pull a major upset in the next two weeks to gain bowl

    consideration. USC has a bye week next week so there will be no

    loss of focus looking ahead to the Notre Dame game. The USC

    defense has been incredibly dominant allowing just over 200 yards

    per game and an absurd average of 6.67 points per game. Stanford

    can run the ball well but it will be tough to score. USC BY 28

    Nebraska (-6½) KANSAS STATE 2:30 PM

    Through a brutal schedule Nebraska has had mixed results this

    season but last week the Huskers delivered a nice victory. Kansas

    State has announced that a coaching change will be made as the

    Wildcats have struggled to keep pace against the Big 12 this season

    with just one conference win. Last season Nebraska hung 73 points

    on the Wildcats so much like last week’s game had importance for

    Nebraska, this will be a revenge spot for K-State. Nebraska is just 2-

    6 ATS in the last eight meetings in this series and the turnover prone

    Huskers could be in for a tough follow-up game. K-STATE BY 6

    Oklahoma State (-17½) COLORADO 7:00 PM

    The Cowboys were a trendy pick last week catching Texas Tech in a

    possible letdown spot but it was not to be as OSU could not keep

    up. Colorado held on for a narrow win last week but the Buffaloes

    have failed ATS in seven consecutive games. Oklahoma State has

    an explosive offense but this is a very tough schedule spot facing

    the third road game in four weeks and the second straight game

    away from home. Oklahoma State has an incredible ATS record this

    season but the value is gone and the bounce back win will not come

    as easy as many will expect. OKLAHOMA STATE BY 10

    SOUTH FLORIDA (-7½) Rutgers 11:00 AM

    Both teams were considered Big East contenders but it has been a

    disappointing season for both sides. Rutgers started the season 1-5

    but has rebounded with wins in the last three games. South Florida

    has had the reverse occur with a 5-0 start and losses in three of the

    last four. South Florida owns incredible defensive numbers, allowing

    just over 280 yards per game and the offense has been productive

    with average of418 yards per game and over 30 points per game.

    Rutgers has one of the worst running games in the nation despite

    being a great rushing team in recent years. Turnovers have been

    problematic for both teams and value may be back on a USF squad

    that was projected to be the best team in the Big East. USF BY 14

    FLORIDA STATE (-7) Boston College 7:00 PM

    The Seminoles have not been given national power status in several

    years but quietly FSU is 7-2 and tied for first in the competitive ACC

    Atlantic. FSU is 5-12 ATS in the last 17 as home favorites. In a

    horrible weather game then #2 BC lost to Florida State last season

    so this may be a revenge spot for the Eagles despite coming off a

    big win last week against Notre Dame. Florida State’s defense has

    produced great numbers this season but Boston College has not

    been far behind. The key in this game may be Florida State’s

    running game. FSU averages 205 yards per game, an inflated

    number from two FCS wins, but still a much more potent attack than

    BC offers on the ground. FLORIDA STATE BY 10

    Ohio State (-9) ILLINOIS 11:00 AM

    After a Rose Bowl season last year Illinois has taken a step back

    this year, still battling for bowl eligibility. The Illini have potential but

    consistency and turnovers have been problems. Last season Illinois

    won in Columbus to end the Buckeyes undefeated season hopes so

    this will be a big game for both teams. Ohio State is 13-2 the last 15

    games as road favorites and Illinois can be tough to trust, although

    the Illini have not lost consecutive games all season. Illinois can still

    post solid production but turnovers have been a problem. Though

    Ohio State won by a solid margin last week the game was close

    early and the Buckeyes have had trouble with athletic speed

    oriented offenses in recent seasons. OHIO STATE BY 7

    Utah (NL) SAN DIEGO STATE 7:00 PM

    A miraculous win last week keeps the perfect season alive and Utah

    is on track for a BCS bowl bid. The Utes would not be blamed for

    overlooking this game ahead to next week’s critical game against

    BYU. San Diego State could make a strong argument for being the

    worst team in the nation. At 1-9 the Aztecs average 17 points per

    game while allowing 36 points per game while being out-gained by

    an average of 170 yards per game. Utah has solid numbers as a

    road favorite but the line should be out of control considering what is

    at stake and how easily San Diego State has been scored on. Look

    for a Utah win but this is not a favorable spot. UTAH BY 28

    UTEP (-9) Smu 8:00 PM

    The Miners are 1-9 in the last ten chances as home favorites but

    UTEP was a convincing winner last week as a solid underdog.

    Turnovers were key for UTEP as the defense still allowed close to

    400 yards and on the season the Miners are among the worst

    nationally on the defensive side, averaging 473 yards per game

    allowed. Both of these teams feature productive passing games but

    SMU’s offense is allowing 485 yards per game. SMU has played the

    more challenging schedule and despite a 1-9 S/U record the

    Mustangs have been fairly competitive in most games as four of the

    last six losses came by single-digits. UTEP BY 7

    ARIZONA STATE (NL) Washington State 4:30 PM

    Despite another lopsided loss Washington State did at least find the

    end zone a few times last week. The Cougars only had 208 yards of

    offense so the 28-point effort was a bit misleading. Arizona State

    snapped an ugly six-game losing streak last week and this should

    be a great opportunity for another win. Arizona State is actually 8-2

    ATS in the last ten instances as double-digit favorites and although

    the overall numbers are not good on offense ASU should deliver a

    solid outing this week. Washington State is allowing over 50 points

    per game and the Cougars also have the worst turnover margin in

    the nation, so little is going right. ARIZONA STATE BY 35

    Middle Tennessee St (-3) W. KENTUCKY 12:00 PM

    Last week’s win was a big one for Middle Tennessee State as the

    Raiders have had a very tight recent series with UL-Monroe.

    Western Kentucky has not been terribly competitive in this

    transitional year and they have failed to cover in all three lined home

    games this season. Western Kentucky had just 216 yards of offense

    last week and the Blue Raider defense has been solid this year,

    particularly against the passing game. Last season Western

    Kentucky beat MTSU so revenge is in order. MTSU BY 13

    UL-Lafayette (-2) FLORIDA ATLANTIC 3:00 PM

    UL-Lafayette fell to 0-4 in non-conference games this season but the

    Ragin’ Cajuns are still undefeated in Sun Belt play. Last year’s

    conference champion Florida Atlantic is in need of a big win this

    week as conference play started out poorly. Last season Lafayette

    took FAU to OT but came up just short. Florida Atlantic played a

    brutal early season schedule and should not be counted out of the

    conference race yet. ULL has great rushing numbers but the

    conference schedule has been favorable so far. FAU BY 10

    MISSISSIPPI (-21) UL-Monroe 5:00 PM

    Ole Miss has had two weeks to ready for this game and the Rebels

    are coming off back-to-back SEC wins. At 5-4 it has been a solid

    first year for Coach Nutt and a strong finish and a bowl bid is still

    very possible. A big game at LSU is on deck but UL-Monroe will not

    get overlooked after the Warhawks knocked off Alabama last

    season. UL-M suffered a tough loss last week in a close game and it

    is hard to see this game staying close for long. The statistics do not

    look that appealing but Ole Miss has gone through the toughest part

    of the schedule already. OLE MISS BY 21

    LSU (-19) Troy 7:00 PM

    This make-up game provides some intrigue as Troy has been

    among the top Sun Belt teams in recent years. LSU enters this

    game off a very disappointing loss in last week’s big game. Troy is

    less threatening with the injuries suffered but this could be a closer

    game than expected and Troy has delivered a few major upsets in

    recent seasons. LSU BY 14

    

    posted by phantom

    Nov. 14 2008 2:18pm
13. 0 likes

    ACE ACE 1 (2000+ 1-0) (5-3) (23-14) florida state, maryland, wisconsin

    ATS 2 (20* 3-0) (11-6) (29-29) 10* PARLAY OF YEAR MARSHALL - KENTUCKY --- 8* OREGON STATE - 7* NEVADA - 6 stanford, notre dame, wisconsin - 5 maryland

    BEN BURNS 1 (16-14) (20-18) MAIN EVENT BIG 12 GOY KANSAS STATE --- BLOWOUT GAME OF WEEK KENTUCKY --- AUBURN, KANSAS, ILLINOIS

    BIG AL 2 (8-4) (3* 27-15) 3 HOUSTON, SO MISS, INDIANA, air force, oregon, utep, purdue

    BANKER 4 (500* 2-3) (400* 9-7) (10-15) 400 NORTHWESTERN

    BILL BAILEY (100* 4-6) (8-15)

    BLAZER (4* 5-6) (3* 14-13)

    BOB BALFE (38-28)

    BRANDON LANG 1 (30* 0-1) (20* 6-3) (24-22) 40 OREGON STATE

    CAJUN SPORTS 2 (5* 4-5) (4* 11-6) (20-17) 4 NORTHWESTERN, SO CAROLINA - 3 east carolina, fau, uconn

    CAPPERS ACCESS (26-30)

    CASH 2 (6-6) (8-13) (30-24) MARYLAND, nc state, uconn, vandy, so florida

    COACHES CORNER 1 (2-1) (1-5) (24-24) OREGON, wisconsin, usc and under

    COWTOWN (2* 5-5) (17-19)

    COMPUTER KIDS 1 (8-2) (22-17) USC UNDER, ucla under, michigan over, syracuse under

    DAVE COKIN 4 (4-4) (32-33) (19-17) NORTHWESTERN, AUBURN

    DAVE ******** 1 (6* 2-6) (5* 6-2) (29-27) 6 BYU - 5 UCONN - 4 wisconsin, oregon, ul monroe, colo state, wash state over, duke over

    DIAMOND STAR 4 (3* 2-3) (2* 22-22) auburn

    DIRECTOR 4 (2-2) (16-14) (19-21) northwestern

    DOC ENTERPRISES 1 (8* 0-1) (7* 0-1) (6* 2-1) (5* 4-6) (35-23) REVENGE GOY SOUTH CAROLINA -- notre dame, florida atlantic, miss state, wisconsin

    DOCTOR BOB 1 (4* 1-0) (3* 18-7) (2* 14-7) 3 NEW MEXICO, AIR FORCE, OKLA STATE

    DOLPHIN (5* 1-1) (3* 27-30)

    EXECUTIVE (600+ 4-2) (400% 2-2) (22-16)

    EXPERT 1 (0-1) (6-12) (6-7) NEW MEXICO

    FAB FOUR PICKS 1 (8-10) (7-9) OREGON

    FINAL SCORE 1 (0-1) (5-9) (13-7) WISCONSIN

    GAME DAY 1 (5* 1-0) (4-3) (27-20) 4 NOTRE DAME - navy, so florida, uab, cal, illinois

    GARDEN STATE SPORTS (5* 5-1) (21-11)

    GOLD SHEET 1 (3-3) (5-5) (25-16) SUPER POWER 7 MARSHALL --- UCONN --- maryland, rutgers, air force, wash state over

    INSIDERS EDGE (40* 6-6) (20-16)

    INSIDE STEAM (7-2) (13-21)

    INSIDE INFO 4 (2* 3-9) (17-21) 2 OHIO STATE -

    JB SPORTS 1 (1-0) (4-12) (17-15) marshall, florida state

    JEFFERSON SPORTS (24-24)

    JIM FEIST 4 (3-7) (36-25) (22-19) RUTGERS - illinois, auburn

    KELSO STURGEON 1 (200* 1-0) (100* 4-0) (50* 6-1) (5-4) 100 TEXAS -- 25 GAME OF MONTH ILLINOIS - 10 utah - 5 air force - 4 kentucky -3 wisconsin

    LARRY NESS 1 (5-6) (14-19) LEGEND NOTRE DAME ---- MOUNTAIN WEST GOY BYU

    LT PROFITS (3* 0-1) (2* 30-19)

    LV INSIDERS (500* 3-6) (2-5) (19-15)

    LV LOCKLINE (50* 6-4) (21-20)

    LV SPORTS 4 (1-0) (23-23) purdue, navy, so florida, baylor, washington

    LENNY STEVENS 2 (20* 4-3) (20* 2-3) (15-17) GAME OF YEAR NC STATE --- 10 okla state, california, ohio state

    MAXWELL 1 (0-2) (1-2) (26-20) uconn, maryland, nc state, miss state

    MIKE NERI 1 (5* 1-0) (4* 13-6) (22-15) 5 OKLA STATE - notre dame, wisconsin, ohio state

    MILLIONAIRES CLUB (6-1) (9-3)

    NORM HITZGES 2 (3* 2-0) (2* 19-17) WISCONSIN, HOUSTON, LOU TECH, USC

    NORTHCOAST PHONES 4 (5* 2-1) (4* 6-2) (4* 16-6) (9-16) 4 WISCONSIN - 4 florida, notre dame -- 3 texas, new mex state

    NORTHCOAST TOTALS 2 (1-0) (4* 3-2) (14-12) 4 CENTRAL FLORIDA UNDER -- 3 ucla under, vanderbilt over, ul lafayette over

    NORTHCOAST SMALL COLL (4* 2-2) (14-17)

    NY SPORTS 4 (10* 4-2) (9* 3-0) (23-18) 8 iowa

    PHENOM 1 (24-15) troy state, vanderbilt, uconn, michigan

    PLATINUM 1 (10* 10-8) (23-21) MICHIGAN, NEW MEXICO, UCONN, SO FLORIDA

    POINTWISE 1 (4* 8-9) (39-28) 4*WISCONSIN, SOUTHERN CAL -- utep, rutgers, baylor, boise, notre dame, east carolina, nevada, colo state, west michigan, texas

    POINTSPREAD MAVEN (20* 4-5) (17-23)

    POWER PLAYS 1 (33-23) NEW MEXICO, MICHIGAN, WISCONSIN

    PREFERRED PICKS (5* 0-2) (4* 7-2) (11-10)

    PRIMETIME (8-6) (5-11)

    PRIVATE INVESTORS 1 (4-4) (28-27) ucla, oregon, new mexico state, new mexico, kentucky

    PRIVATE PLAYERS OF PITT 1 (5* 5-2) (4* 20-9) (3*20-30) 5 FLORIDA STATE - 3 nevada, west michigan, air force, michigan, colorado state

    PURE LOCK 3 (5* 6-3) PASS

    RAIDER 1 (24-20) texas, tulsa, smu

    REED HARRIS 1 (3-6) (26-28) auburn,iowa state, tulane, texas, so miss, colorado, florida atlantic

    SEBASTIAN 3 (27-11) (100* 14-10) (18-29) 100* STEAM LOCK OREGON STATE --- 300 TEXAS -- 200 HOUSTON - 100 kentucky, marshall, maryland, so carolina - 50 notre dame, colo state, auburn, san jose

    SCORE (500% 5-2) (400% 6-7) (13-16)

    SCOTT SPREITZER (6-9) (38-29) (10-10)

    SILVER STAR (10* 4-4) (9* 0-1) (14-21)

    SLAM DUNK 1 (0-1) (6-6) (11-12) FLORIDA ATLANTIC

    ED SLICK (2* 4-3) (43-32)

    SOLID GOLD PICK 2 (1-0) (1-4) (24-8) south florida, marshall, auburn, tulane, nc state

    SPORTS ANALYST 1 (2-1) (2-4) (11-19) stanford, texas, notre dame, wisconsin, michigan, ohio state

    SPORTS AUTHORITY (5-4) (7-6) (5* 8-7)

    SPORTS BANK (500* 6-2) (400* 4-3) (5-9)

    SPORTS DOCTOR (100* 6-1) (5-3) (11-12)

    SPORTS INVESTORS 4 (10* 5-5) (20-19) 9 south florida

    SPORTS NETWORK 2 (1-2) (14-22) (43-29) GOY WISCONSIN --- PAC 10 GOY OREGON --- SEC GOY AUBURN

    SPORT TRENDS 3 (2-1) (2-2) (55-48) OREGON, penn state, wisconsin, illinois, auburn, iowa state over, colorado under

    SPORTS UNLIMITED 3 (25* 1-0) (15* 1-0) (10* 1-3) (7* 3-1) (21-14) 15* BIG EAST GOY SO FLORIDA -- 5 vanderbilt, kansas state - 4 new mexico - 3 uab

    STATISTICIAN (100* 2-3) (9-12) (2-1)

    SUPER LOCK 1 (10-14) NEW MEXICO, CALIFORNIA, KENTUCKY

    SUPER SYSTEMS 1 (0-1) (8-12) (4-7) AUBURN, NEW MEXICO, UCONN

    SWAMI 2 (1-2) (14-13) maryland, nc state, auburn, kansas state, illinois

    TOUCHDOWN CLUB (10* 4-4) (9* 0-2) (24-17)

    THE COACH (3* 3-5) (11-11) (6-12)

    THE SPORTS GURU (40* 2-7) (19-22)

    TIPPS 1 (0-2) (10-9) (22-23) MARYLAND, SOUTH FLORIDA, KANSAS, UCLA

    TOMMY THUNDER (10* 5-3) (9* 0-2) (13-23)

    TONY WRIGHT (10* 2-5) (13-12)

    TOP DAWG 1 (44-18) utah state, san diego state, smu, san jose, toledo, nc state, purdue

    TRU-LINE 1 (0-1) (5-2) (13-12) WASHINGTON, miss state, stanford, michigan, air force, new mexico

    UNDERDOG (7-3)

    UNIVERSAL 2 (1-0) (2-3) (32-28) UCONN, colo state, texas, new mex state, colorado

    USA SPORTS 1 (9-3) (27-28) BAYLOR

    VEGAS CONNECTION (3* 4-5) (2* 14-23) (1-3)

    VEGAS PIPELINE 2 (1-1) (16-19) (6-8) TEXAS, NEW MEXICO, SO CAROLINA, UCLA, ILLINOIS

    WAYNE ROOT 3 (5-2) (16-19) (22-17) BILLIONAIRE KANSAS --- INNER CIRCLE COLORADO --- NO LIMIT HOUSTON --- MONEY MAKER AUBURN --- MILLIONAIRE maryland --- CHAIRMAN arizona

    WILDCAT (8-2) (4-7) (5-6)

    WINDY CITY (10* 4-5) (9* 1-1) (18-18)

    WINNERS PATH (5* 1-1) (2-1) (19-17)

    WISE GUYS 4 (3* 5-4) (16-21) (2-2) 3 UCONN - 2 ILLINOIS UNDER, TOLEDO

    WIZARD 2 (3-0) (8-9) (13-12) FLORIDA, SO MISS, CALIFORNIA OVER

    ADDITIONAL ***

    JOHN RYAN 1 15* AUBURN

    SPYLOCK 1 5- BYU -- 3 ARIZONA

    COMPUTER CRUSHER 1 BIG 10 GOY OHIO STATE

    GREG ROBERTS 1 GOY WISCONSIN

    WIZZARDS WIRE 1 GOY NOTRE DAME

    SEAN HIGGS 1 BIG EAST GAME OF MONTH SOUTH FLORIDA

    BIG MONEY 1 san jose

    BOB AKMEN 1 NORTHWESTERN, AIR FORCE, ARIZONA, OKLA STATE, UCLA

    INDIAN COWBOY 1 PLAY OF THE DAY AUBURN

    GREG PRICE 1 SEC BLOWOUT FLORIDA --- ACC GAME OF MONTH BOSTON COLLEGE --- REVENGE GAME SOUTH FLORIDA

    S BUDIN 2 25 TULSA

    AL DEMARCO 2 PAC 10 GOY OREGON STATE

    ALATEX 2 GOY VANDERBILT

    E RYNNING 2 BLOWOUT GOY SOUTH FLORIDA

    ASA 2 6* OREGON -- notre dame, so miss, maryland

    F PATRON 2 HOUSTON

    GUS MARONE 2 BLOWOUT GOY BYU

    CHIP CHIRMBES 2 CASINO GOY KANSAS STATE

    M OSHEA 2 UNDERDOG GOY MARYLAND

    3 G's 2 GAME OF YEAR SOUTH FLORIDA

    TEDDY COVERS 2 20* FLORIDA STATE

    MATT ***** 2 BIG 12 GOY KANSAS STATE

    DONN WAGNER 3 4* IOWA UNDER, KSU OVER, USC UNDER, AUBURN UNDER, NC STATE, MARYLAND, VANDERBILT, UCLA,

    

    posted by phantom

    Nov. 15 2008 1:00pm