Can we just forget this weekend happened? Outside of a couple close (but extremely ugly) games (USC/Utah St., Michigan/UConn, & Michigan St./Notre Dame), this weekend was filled with 70-0 blowouts. It’s not even worth doing a Top-10 recap, because there wasn’t 10 things worth talking about (other than the River Dancin’ place kicker from Rice – google it if you didn’t see it).Conference play finally fires up, and we finally get some more ranked v. ranked games. Let’s get right to it.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (3-0) – Cal’s a pretty good warm up for PAC-12 play.
#2 Ohio State (4-0) – Wisconsin isn’t Florida A&M.
#3 Stanford (3-0) – Ah, you were sand-bagging it against Army.
#4 Alabama (3-0) – Pretty much everyone has you on upset alert this weekend. Except me.
#5 Louisville (12-0) – 12-0 may not be enough to get you in.
#6 Clemson (3-0) – Finally beat NC State, I see?
#7 Oklahoma State (3-0) – But look out for Baylor.
#8 Georgia (2-1) – Yet another huge game this weekend.
#9 Florida State (3-0) – Handed Bethune-Cookman their first loss of the year.
#10 LSU (4-0) – Everyone seems to be on the LSU bandwagon. Have fun in Athens.
Heisman Watch:
Tajh Boyd, Clemson – Time to put up some stats in ACC play.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – Sticking with it; Ohio State’s gotta get by Wisconsin though.
Week 5 Big Games:
Oklahoma @ Notre Dame – Notre Dame had no business beating OU in Norman last year, yet they did. Stoops played scared against the Irish defense last year, as did many teams. Notre Dame’s defense looked pretty good (finally!) against Michigan State. But that is the same Michigan State offense that is downright offensive. Tommy Rees is only completing around 50% of his passes, and I just don’t see how Notre Dame puts up enough points to beat the Sooners. Oklahoma 27 Notre Dame 17.
Ole Miss @ Alabama – Everyone seems to be putting Alabama on upset alert this weekend, after their defense was torched by A&M, and their offense didn’t show up against Colorado State. Call the Colorado State game a hang-over game, a trap game, or you name it; but I’m not putting much stock in that performance. Alabama will lose this year, but it won’t be to Ole Miss. ‘Bama 38 Mississippi 27.
Wisconsin @ Ohio State – All that matters in this one is the over/under on Mussburger saying “theeeeeeee BUCKeyes!” These two teams have played some very entertaining games in recent years, with Ohio State winning in O.T. last year and also prevailing the year before 33-29. Ohio State seems to be doing just fine without their starting QB, though I’m fairly sure he’ll be under center this weekend. Wisconsin showed some holes against Arizona State, and the Buckeyes will exploit those. Ohio State 34 Wisconsin 27.
Week 5 Game of the Week:
LSU @ Georgia – Georgia continues its horrific schedule; a third top-10 team just four games into the season. LSU’s offense has surprised lots of folks, and Georgia’s defense has shown lots of holes. LSU’s defense is as good as ever, but they’re on the road, in Athens, versus a battle-tested team that’s already gone blow to blow with Clemson and took down South Carolina. Georgia wins in a shootout 38-31.
Until next time…
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Week 3 Recap and Week 4 Preview
Week 3 has come and gone and we know this: Alabama is still good, but A&M and Johnny Football can still score, the PAC-12 is much improved, the Big 10 isn’t; and the NCAA continues to state that they won’t pay their athletes (so I guess the boosters and agents will have to continue to fill that void).
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 3 Top-10 recap:
1. I saw some bad calls this weekend (the targeting call against Alabama’s DB, rightfully overturned; a series of strange/bad calls in the Thursday night TCU/Texas Tech game – a “fumble” into the endzone prior to scoring a TD resulting in a dead ball at the half yard line, a failure to adequately not call a fair catch, or whatever the explanation was) but the end of the ASU/Wisconsin game takes the cake as far as flat out bad calls. Sure, the play by the Wisconsin QB was boneheaded (I’ve never seen a player spot the bad like that), and the response by ASU thinking it may have been an ill-advised fumble wasn’t the problem. The problem was the refs letting the clock run out without even blowing it dead to discuss what was happening. And then not even looking at it after the fact! With replay happening on insignificant plays in the first quarter of games, the NCAA must include a rule that in the final minute of play, everything is reviewable. Notice how I haven’t said that this scenario cost Wisconsin the game. They still would’ve needed to make the FG. What a strange ending to an otherwise entertaining game.
2. You really shouldn’t need three 4th quarter TD’s to beat Purdue, Notre Dame. I hate to say it, the only reason the Irish have a chance this year is because of Tommy Rees. The defense (which was supposed to be as good, if not better, than last year’s squad) has not been good. And, the schedule doesn’t get any easier: Michigan State, Oklahoma, Arizona State, and USC. Then it calms down a bit with Air Force, Navy, and Pitt; only to end with BYU and Stanford. Looking more and more like 7-5 for the Irish.
3. Akron almost pulled an Appalachian State against the Wolverines. Hey Michigan, when you’re 38-point favorites at home, you probably don’t need to have to have a goal-line-stand to save the day against the Zips.
4. Nebraska gets shut out at in the second half at home, and the Blackshirts give up 38 straight points to UCLA. Yikes. Pelini better pack his bags. 85th in the nation in scoring defense is not good; especially when two of your first three were against Wyoming and Southern Miss. At least Wisconsin and Ohio State aren’t on the schedule, and overall the Big 10 is down. 9-3 may not be good enough for Pelini to keep his job.
5. Speaking of coaches on the hot seat, Nebraska could probably get a fair deal in a trade for Mac Brown. Texas has lost two straight, and have lost three straight to both Kansas State and Red River Rival Oklahoma. I know Mac wants to leave on his own terms, but he may want to start packing too.
6. The PAC-12 was 8-1 in non-con games this weekend, including 3-1 against the Big 10; and, Cal actually looked pretty decent against thee Ohio State. The Big 10 was 7-5, but six of those wins were Bowling Green, Akron (barely), Western Illinois, Youngstown State, Iowa State, and Western Michigan. The PAC-12 is flying high; the B1G is not.
7. Every time I changed channels from the A&M/Alabama game to the Oregon game the result was the same. Oregon was flying in for yet another score. But, the Ducks looked pretty crappy in the first quarter with lots of penalties and mental mistakes. You can get away with that versus a Tennessee, but not many quality teams. The offense looks better than ever, and the defense continues to improve. However, two of their three remaining toughest games are on the road: @ Washington, and @ Stanford. I still don’t see a PAC-12 team that’s gonna slow down the Ducks. They’ll be #1 soon, just wait for it.
8. In the most exciting game of the weekend that no one saw, Oregon State took down Utah 51-48 in overtime. If you’re into gambling, you may want to start looking at overs in these Beavers games. They’re scoring 43/game but are 110th in the nation in scoring defense, giving up 37/game. And their season ending schedule is brutal – v. Stanford, v. USC, @ Arizona State, v. Washington, and @ Oregon in the Civil War. It’s gonna be a long year for Oregon State fans – if there are any left.
9. A couple of things to take home from the A&M/Alabama game (yet again the game of the week that did not disappoint): Manziel’s two INTs cost A&M 14 points – one in the endzone and one returned by ‘Bama for a TD. Alabama’s defense gave up the most yards it ever has. Ever. Alabama’s offensive line looked great; but it was against A&M’s defensive line (remember the team that gave up 509 yards to Rice). Bottom line, ‘Bama’s the better team, and once they got the lead, it was clear that Saban and Co. wasn’t going to give it up.
10. The anti-playoff folks say that every week is a playoff. Well, even though there were many cupcake games on week 3’s schedule (yes, Michigan, Akron was a cupcake); check out what’s upcoming this weekend for the AP Top-25: #1 Alabama v. Colorado State, #2 Oregon (bye), #3 Clemson v. North Carolina State, #4 Ohio State v. Florida A&M, #7 Louisville v. Florida International, #8 Florida State v. Bethune-Cookman, #9 Georgia v. North Texas, #10 Texas A&M v. SMU, #11 Oklahoma State (bye), #12 South Carolina (bye), #13 UCLA v. New Mexico State, #14 Oklahoma (bye), #15 Michigan @ Connecticut, #16 Miami v. Savannah State, #17 Washington v. Idaho State, #18 Northwestern v. Maine, #19 Florida v. Tennessee, #20 Baylor v. Louisiana-Monroe, #21 Ole Miss (bye), #24 Wisconsin v. Purdue, and #25 Texas Tech v. Texas State. So, outside of #5 Stanford v. #23 Arizona State, #6 LSU v. Auburn, and #22 Notre Dame v. Michigan State, if there’s going to be any upsets this weekend, they’ll be huge upsets. Don’t expect the Top-10 to change much after this weekend.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (3-0) – Oregon’s so good they’re gonna score 59 on Bye.
#2 Ohio State (3-0) – At least one Big 10 team beat a PAC-12 team.
#3 Stanford (2-0) – My confidence in you is fading…struggling to put Army away? Let’s see how you do against Arizona State this weekend, back at the farm.
#4 Alabama (2-0) – Offensive output was surprising, defense looked the most vulnerable it has in years.
#5 Louisville (12-0) – Did you accept your Orange Bowl bid yet?
#6 Clemson (2-0) – Probably should be closer to #3 in my poll, but gotta wait until LSU beats Alabama and Oregon beats Stanford. And, you need to beat Florida State.
#7 Oklahoma State (3-0) – It figures that the year OU and Texas are really down, and Oklahoma State looks great, the eye of NCAA is peering down on the Cowboys for violations.
#8 Georgia (1-1) – You’ve got the offense to put up points on ‘Bama in the SEC Championship, but your defense isn’t much better than A&M’s.
#9 Florida State (2-0) – But, which four TD underdog will you lose to this year?
#10 LSU (3-0) – Mettenberger leads the SEC in passing efficiency. Yes, you heard that right. Not McCarron from Alabama, Johnny from A&M, Murray from Georgia, or Shaw from South Carolina. And LSU may have the best defense in the SEC.
Heisman Watch:
Tajh Boyd, Clemson – Boyd had a bye; gets back at it Thursday night @ NC State.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – This requires Alabama losing somewhere along the way…
Week 4 Big Games:
Auburn @ LSU – Auburn’s off to a surprising 3-0 start, but LSU isn’t Washington State, Arkansas State, or Mississippi State. Then again, is LSU peeking ahead to next week’s road trip to Athens? Not this time. LSU may be the most balanced team in the SEC right now. LSU 34 Auburn 14.
Week 4 Game of the Week:
Arizona State @ Stanford – ASU comes in on a high note, with a wild win over Wisconsin. Stanford hasn’t been all that impressive through their two games, but they really haven’t had to be. The national spotlight will be on Stanford this weekend, as there’s no other match-ups of ranked teams, and the country wants to see if they are worth the hype. ASU’s gonna want to create some tempo, but Stanford’s going to want to slow it down. ASU is a much improved team, but they’re not quite ready for the big time. Stanford 31 ASU 27.
Until next time…
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 3 Top-10 recap:
1. I saw some bad calls this weekend (the targeting call against Alabama’s DB, rightfully overturned; a series of strange/bad calls in the Thursday night TCU/Texas Tech game – a “fumble” into the endzone prior to scoring a TD resulting in a dead ball at the half yard line, a failure to adequately not call a fair catch, or whatever the explanation was) but the end of the ASU/Wisconsin game takes the cake as far as flat out bad calls. Sure, the play by the Wisconsin QB was boneheaded (I’ve never seen a player spot the bad like that), and the response by ASU thinking it may have been an ill-advised fumble wasn’t the problem. The problem was the refs letting the clock run out without even blowing it dead to discuss what was happening. And then not even looking at it after the fact! With replay happening on insignificant plays in the first quarter of games, the NCAA must include a rule that in the final minute of play, everything is reviewable. Notice how I haven’t said that this scenario cost Wisconsin the game. They still would’ve needed to make the FG. What a strange ending to an otherwise entertaining game.
2. You really shouldn’t need three 4th quarter TD’s to beat Purdue, Notre Dame. I hate to say it, the only reason the Irish have a chance this year is because of Tommy Rees. The defense (which was supposed to be as good, if not better, than last year’s squad) has not been good. And, the schedule doesn’t get any easier: Michigan State, Oklahoma, Arizona State, and USC. Then it calms down a bit with Air Force, Navy, and Pitt; only to end with BYU and Stanford. Looking more and more like 7-5 for the Irish.
3. Akron almost pulled an Appalachian State against the Wolverines. Hey Michigan, when you’re 38-point favorites at home, you probably don’t need to have to have a goal-line-stand to save the day against the Zips.
4. Nebraska gets shut out at in the second half at home, and the Blackshirts give up 38 straight points to UCLA. Yikes. Pelini better pack his bags. 85th in the nation in scoring defense is not good; especially when two of your first three were against Wyoming and Southern Miss. At least Wisconsin and Ohio State aren’t on the schedule, and overall the Big 10 is down. 9-3 may not be good enough for Pelini to keep his job.
5. Speaking of coaches on the hot seat, Nebraska could probably get a fair deal in a trade for Mac Brown. Texas has lost two straight, and have lost three straight to both Kansas State and Red River Rival Oklahoma. I know Mac wants to leave on his own terms, but he may want to start packing too.
6. The PAC-12 was 8-1 in non-con games this weekend, including 3-1 against the Big 10; and, Cal actually looked pretty decent against thee Ohio State. The Big 10 was 7-5, but six of those wins were Bowling Green, Akron (barely), Western Illinois, Youngstown State, Iowa State, and Western Michigan. The PAC-12 is flying high; the B1G is not.
7. Every time I changed channels from the A&M/Alabama game to the Oregon game the result was the same. Oregon was flying in for yet another score. But, the Ducks looked pretty crappy in the first quarter with lots of penalties and mental mistakes. You can get away with that versus a Tennessee, but not many quality teams. The offense looks better than ever, and the defense continues to improve. However, two of their three remaining toughest games are on the road: @ Washington, and @ Stanford. I still don’t see a PAC-12 team that’s gonna slow down the Ducks. They’ll be #1 soon, just wait for it.
8. In the most exciting game of the weekend that no one saw, Oregon State took down Utah 51-48 in overtime. If you’re into gambling, you may want to start looking at overs in these Beavers games. They’re scoring 43/game but are 110th in the nation in scoring defense, giving up 37/game. And their season ending schedule is brutal – v. Stanford, v. USC, @ Arizona State, v. Washington, and @ Oregon in the Civil War. It’s gonna be a long year for Oregon State fans – if there are any left.
9. A couple of things to take home from the A&M/Alabama game (yet again the game of the week that did not disappoint): Manziel’s two INTs cost A&M 14 points – one in the endzone and one returned by ‘Bama for a TD. Alabama’s defense gave up the most yards it ever has. Ever. Alabama’s offensive line looked great; but it was against A&M’s defensive line (remember the team that gave up 509 yards to Rice). Bottom line, ‘Bama’s the better team, and once they got the lead, it was clear that Saban and Co. wasn’t going to give it up.
10. The anti-playoff folks say that every week is a playoff. Well, even though there were many cupcake games on week 3’s schedule (yes, Michigan, Akron was a cupcake); check out what’s upcoming this weekend for the AP Top-25: #1 Alabama v. Colorado State, #2 Oregon (bye), #3 Clemson v. North Carolina State, #4 Ohio State v. Florida A&M, #7 Louisville v. Florida International, #8 Florida State v. Bethune-Cookman, #9 Georgia v. North Texas, #10 Texas A&M v. SMU, #11 Oklahoma State (bye), #12 South Carolina (bye), #13 UCLA v. New Mexico State, #14 Oklahoma (bye), #15 Michigan @ Connecticut, #16 Miami v. Savannah State, #17 Washington v. Idaho State, #18 Northwestern v. Maine, #19 Florida v. Tennessee, #20 Baylor v. Louisiana-Monroe, #21 Ole Miss (bye), #24 Wisconsin v. Purdue, and #25 Texas Tech v. Texas State. So, outside of #5 Stanford v. #23 Arizona State, #6 LSU v. Auburn, and #22 Notre Dame v. Michigan State, if there’s going to be any upsets this weekend, they’ll be huge upsets. Don’t expect the Top-10 to change much after this weekend.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (3-0) – Oregon’s so good they’re gonna score 59 on Bye.
#2 Ohio State (3-0) – At least one Big 10 team beat a PAC-12 team.
#3 Stanford (2-0) – My confidence in you is fading…struggling to put Army away? Let’s see how you do against Arizona State this weekend, back at the farm.
#4 Alabama (2-0) – Offensive output was surprising, defense looked the most vulnerable it has in years.
#5 Louisville (12-0) – Did you accept your Orange Bowl bid yet?
#6 Clemson (2-0) – Probably should be closer to #3 in my poll, but gotta wait until LSU beats Alabama and Oregon beats Stanford. And, you need to beat Florida State.
#7 Oklahoma State (3-0) – It figures that the year OU and Texas are really down, and Oklahoma State looks great, the eye of NCAA is peering down on the Cowboys for violations.
#8 Georgia (1-1) – You’ve got the offense to put up points on ‘Bama in the SEC Championship, but your defense isn’t much better than A&M’s.
#9 Florida State (2-0) – But, which four TD underdog will you lose to this year?
#10 LSU (3-0) – Mettenberger leads the SEC in passing efficiency. Yes, you heard that right. Not McCarron from Alabama, Johnny from A&M, Murray from Georgia, or Shaw from South Carolina. And LSU may have the best defense in the SEC.
Heisman Watch:
Tajh Boyd, Clemson – Boyd had a bye; gets back at it Thursday night @ NC State.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – This requires Alabama losing somewhere along the way…
Week 4 Big Games:
Auburn @ LSU – Auburn’s off to a surprising 3-0 start, but LSU isn’t Washington State, Arkansas State, or Mississippi State. Then again, is LSU peeking ahead to next week’s road trip to Athens? Not this time. LSU may be the most balanced team in the SEC right now. LSU 34 Auburn 14.
Week 4 Game of the Week:
Arizona State @ Stanford – ASU comes in on a high note, with a wild win over Wisconsin. Stanford hasn’t been all that impressive through their two games, but they really haven’t had to be. The national spotlight will be on Stanford this weekend, as there’s no other match-ups of ranked teams, and the country wants to see if they are worth the hype. ASU’s gonna want to create some tempo, but Stanford’s going to want to slow it down. ASU is a much improved team, but they’re not quite ready for the big time. Stanford 31 ASU 27.
Until next time…
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Week 2 Recap and Week 3 Preview
Week 2 is in the books, and in case you didn’t know, Oregon can score and score quickly, Notre Dame’s defense ain’t the 2012 crew that propelled the Irish to the National Championship game, Georgia’s still the best one loss team in the country, and whomever had Clowney as their preseason pick for the Heisman is an idiot. Oops.
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 2 Top-10 recap:
1. After Tommy Rees threw that INT towards the end of the first half and Michigan scored yet again, I thought that game was over. Yet, at the end, Rees and company continued to fight back (even though the defense continued to suck it up) and we had another classic Notre Dame and Michigan finish. I’m really gonna miss that series. So many good memories. One last time next year in South Bend.
2. Well, Western Kentucky isn’t going to bust the BCS this year. It’s really hard to win games when you turn it over five times in six plays in the first quarter. Even against Tennessee.
3. Washington State beat USC in the Coliseum for the first time in 13 years, and did so without scoring an offensive touchdown. I wonder if Pat Haden is still 100% behind Lame Kiffin? USC has now dropped six of their last eight, after being the AP Preseason #1 last year. When are these AD’s gonna realize that Lame ain’t Monte, and he isn’t head coach material? Last season, for the first time in 50 years, a team went from #1 to unranked. Now they only put up 193 yards against Washington State (not exactly ’85 Bears material)? And remember his “success” with the Raiders (5-15) or his one year with Tennessee (7-6)? I wish I could be paid millions of dollars for repeated mediocrity.
4. You’re seeing a swagger from A&M that I don’t think many expected this soon into their SEC tenure. Of course, it’s only been against Rice and Sam Houston State, but Johnny Autograph and company seem to have picked up right where they left off last year. Just in time for Alabama to come to town.
5. Texas loses to BYU and Oklahoma struggled against a not-so-good West Virginia team. Let’s face it, Texas and OU just aren’t that good. The Big 12 looks to be Oklahoma State’s unless this latest pay-for-play scandal creates some distractions.
6. Ohio State rolled over San Diego State, and they did so without Braxton Miller for most of the game. He’s still day-to-day with that knee injury, but it’s pretty clear the Buckeyes are a completely different offense without him. Their chances of running the table diminish pretty quick if he’s not healthy.
7. LSU’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and they still have a couple warm up games before heading to Georgia on September 28th. If the Tigers can pull off that upset, it’s pretty smooth sailing until November 9th @ Alabama and @ Texas A&M following a bye week. The SEC West will be decided those two weekends.
8. Missouri and Tennessee are the only undefeated teams in the SEC East. Raise your hand if you thought that would be the case after week 2. Of course five of Tennessee’s next six are @ Oregon, @ Florida, v. Georgia, v. South Carolina, @ Alabama. Better make hay against South Alabama in a couple weeks.
9. The look on the Virginia fans’ faces was priceless after Mariota went 71 yards untouched on a QB draw on 3rd and five on Oregon’s first possession. Oregon is for real.
10. Once again, the game of the week lived up to the hype as Georgia South Carolina exchanged hay makers for four quarters. Georgia’s got a pro-style offensive, but their defense is going to need to improve before the LSU game in a couple weeks. After the LSU game, their schedule lightens up, with only Florida remaining as a currently ranked team. And you know what they always say, better to lose early than late. That close loss to Clemson is already a distant memory.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (2-0) – 25.5 favorites @ Virginia and they won by nearly double that. Good luck traveling to Eugene, Tennessee.
#2 Ohio State (2-0) – Braxston Miller’s injury is cause for concern, but that again, you don’t play anyone until Wisconsin comes to town at the end of September.
#3 Stanford (1-0) – 3 TD victory over San Jose State, a team you only beat by FG last year. Don’t let me down, Stanford!
#4 Alabama (1-0) – The game we’ve been waiting a long time for…@ A&M.
#5 Louisville (12-0) – Okay, I’ll even give you the Cincy game now.
#6 Clemson (2-0) – Looking good, but I won’t be sold until you beat Florida State.
#7 Oklahoma State (2-0) – U.T. San Antonio exposed your defense. Then again, when has Oklahoma State ever had a defense?
#8 Georgia (1-1) – By far the best one loss team in football.
#9 Texas A&M (2-0) – Can you beat Alabama twice in a row?
#10 Florida State (1-0) – All of the sudden that game v. The U looks more difficult than your trip to the Swamp.
Heisman Watch:
Tajh Boyd, Clemson – Needs a big game against Florida State, and no other stumbles along the way. Though Bridgewater at Louisville is close behind, putting up video game like numbers.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – Ohio State needs to get healthy or they’ll be booted from this prediction even before the Wisconsin game. An Alabama loss this weekend and everyone will have Oregon #1 after they drop 60+ on Tennessee.
Week 3 Big Games:
UCLA @ Nebraska – Last year the Bruins surprised Nebraska. But that was in California, and not in Lincoln. And, how will UCLA be mentality after the tragic death of one of their players? Don’t think the Blackshirts improved much based on what they did against Southern Miss. Southern Miss hasn’t won a game since 2011. And, Nebraska did give up more than 300 yards in the first half to Wyoming in the opener. Emotionally, UCLA will be prepared. This game will come down to the turnover battle. Don’t expect UCLA to give up four times (including two pick sixes) like So. Miss did. UCLA beats Nebraska. Again. 37 to 31.
Tennessee @ Oregon – The only reason I have this as a big game is because it’s being played at the same time as Alabama @ A&M, so no one is going to watch. You really need to watch this Oregon team. They’re gonna be everyone’s #1 soon. Oregon 64 Tennessee 20
Wisconsin @ Arizona State – In another marquee Big 10 v. PAC 12 match-up, 20th ranked Wisconsin comes to the desert against unranked Arizona State. These teams are #1 and #2 in the nation in total defense right now, then again their first few opponents were crappy, with these teams winning the three games a combined 148-0. Remember that ASU nearly upset a much better Wisconsin team in Camp Randall two years ago, and this Wisconsin team struggled early in the year last year losing @ Oregon State. The biggest question is whether or not ASU’s defensive line can hold up to Wisconsin’s relentless rushing attack. Uh, have you seen Will Sutton?? And, interestingly enough, ASU comes in as a four point favorite. Oh, and ASU is 8-0 at home against the Big 10. Let’s make it 9-0. ASU 34 Wisconsin 31.
Week 3 Game of the Week:
Alabama @ Texas A&M – How do you even break down this match-up? Let’s rewind to last year…Alabama had just come home after an emotional come-from-behind win @ LSU @ night. A&M was hot, and Alabama was flat. A&M scored three quick TDs and it looked like Alabama was done. Then A&M missed that third extra point and all of the sudden momentum shifted. Alabama spotted the Aggies three TDs, committed three turnovers themselves, and yet still found themselves goal-to-go with a chance to win it in the fourth quarter. You know Saban and company have been scheming for this one since McCarron’s INT that sealed it for A&M. The key to this game will be if Alabama can retain its focus and composure; especially in front of a hostile crowd in College Station. A&M will score, and score quite a bit – this isn’t your 2011 or 2012 Alabama defense. And, this isn’t your 2012 Alabama offensive line that allowed that fourth quarter comeback against LSU, that second half comeback against A&M, and that dominant performance against Notre Dame. As much as I respect Alabama’s program, and as annoying as I find Johnny Autograph, I was even more shocked to see Vegas had Alabama as a seven point favorite. I think we’ll see something similar to the 2010 Alabama/Auburn game. Alabama just won’t have enough to slow down, or to keep up with A&M. Wrong team favored – A&M 27 Alabama 20.
Until next time…
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 2 Top-10 recap:
1. After Tommy Rees threw that INT towards the end of the first half and Michigan scored yet again, I thought that game was over. Yet, at the end, Rees and company continued to fight back (even though the defense continued to suck it up) and we had another classic Notre Dame and Michigan finish. I’m really gonna miss that series. So many good memories. One last time next year in South Bend.
2. Well, Western Kentucky isn’t going to bust the BCS this year. It’s really hard to win games when you turn it over five times in six plays in the first quarter. Even against Tennessee.
3. Washington State beat USC in the Coliseum for the first time in 13 years, and did so without scoring an offensive touchdown. I wonder if Pat Haden is still 100% behind Lame Kiffin? USC has now dropped six of their last eight, after being the AP Preseason #1 last year. When are these AD’s gonna realize that Lame ain’t Monte, and he isn’t head coach material? Last season, for the first time in 50 years, a team went from #1 to unranked. Now they only put up 193 yards against Washington State (not exactly ’85 Bears material)? And remember his “success” with the Raiders (5-15) or his one year with Tennessee (7-6)? I wish I could be paid millions of dollars for repeated mediocrity.
4. You’re seeing a swagger from A&M that I don’t think many expected this soon into their SEC tenure. Of course, it’s only been against Rice and Sam Houston State, but Johnny Autograph and company seem to have picked up right where they left off last year. Just in time for Alabama to come to town.
5. Texas loses to BYU and Oklahoma struggled against a not-so-good West Virginia team. Let’s face it, Texas and OU just aren’t that good. The Big 12 looks to be Oklahoma State’s unless this latest pay-for-play scandal creates some distractions.
6. Ohio State rolled over San Diego State, and they did so without Braxton Miller for most of the game. He’s still day-to-day with that knee injury, but it’s pretty clear the Buckeyes are a completely different offense without him. Their chances of running the table diminish pretty quick if he’s not healthy.
7. LSU’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and they still have a couple warm up games before heading to Georgia on September 28th. If the Tigers can pull off that upset, it’s pretty smooth sailing until November 9th @ Alabama and @ Texas A&M following a bye week. The SEC West will be decided those two weekends.
8. Missouri and Tennessee are the only undefeated teams in the SEC East. Raise your hand if you thought that would be the case after week 2. Of course five of Tennessee’s next six are @ Oregon, @ Florida, v. Georgia, v. South Carolina, @ Alabama. Better make hay against South Alabama in a couple weeks.
9. The look on the Virginia fans’ faces was priceless after Mariota went 71 yards untouched on a QB draw on 3rd and five on Oregon’s first possession. Oregon is for real.
10. Once again, the game of the week lived up to the hype as Georgia South Carolina exchanged hay makers for four quarters. Georgia’s got a pro-style offensive, but their defense is going to need to improve before the LSU game in a couple weeks. After the LSU game, their schedule lightens up, with only Florida remaining as a currently ranked team. And you know what they always say, better to lose early than late. That close loss to Clemson is already a distant memory.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (2-0) – 25.5 favorites @ Virginia and they won by nearly double that. Good luck traveling to Eugene, Tennessee.
#2 Ohio State (2-0) – Braxston Miller’s injury is cause for concern, but that again, you don’t play anyone until Wisconsin comes to town at the end of September.
#3 Stanford (1-0) – 3 TD victory over San Jose State, a team you only beat by FG last year. Don’t let me down, Stanford!
#4 Alabama (1-0) – The game we’ve been waiting a long time for…@ A&M.
#5 Louisville (12-0) – Okay, I’ll even give you the Cincy game now.
#6 Clemson (2-0) – Looking good, but I won’t be sold until you beat Florida State.
#7 Oklahoma State (2-0) – U.T. San Antonio exposed your defense. Then again, when has Oklahoma State ever had a defense?
#8 Georgia (1-1) – By far the best one loss team in football.
#9 Texas A&M (2-0) – Can you beat Alabama twice in a row?
#10 Florida State (1-0) – All of the sudden that game v. The U looks more difficult than your trip to the Swamp.
Heisman Watch:
Tajh Boyd, Clemson – Needs a big game against Florida State, and no other stumbles along the way. Though Bridgewater at Louisville is close behind, putting up video game like numbers.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – Ohio State needs to get healthy or they’ll be booted from this prediction even before the Wisconsin game. An Alabama loss this weekend and everyone will have Oregon #1 after they drop 60+ on Tennessee.
Week 3 Big Games:
UCLA @ Nebraska – Last year the Bruins surprised Nebraska. But that was in California, and not in Lincoln. And, how will UCLA be mentality after the tragic death of one of their players? Don’t think the Blackshirts improved much based on what they did against Southern Miss. Southern Miss hasn’t won a game since 2011. And, Nebraska did give up more than 300 yards in the first half to Wyoming in the opener. Emotionally, UCLA will be prepared. This game will come down to the turnover battle. Don’t expect UCLA to give up four times (including two pick sixes) like So. Miss did. UCLA beats Nebraska. Again. 37 to 31.
Tennessee @ Oregon – The only reason I have this as a big game is because it’s being played at the same time as Alabama @ A&M, so no one is going to watch. You really need to watch this Oregon team. They’re gonna be everyone’s #1 soon. Oregon 64 Tennessee 20
Wisconsin @ Arizona State – In another marquee Big 10 v. PAC 12 match-up, 20th ranked Wisconsin comes to the desert against unranked Arizona State. These teams are #1 and #2 in the nation in total defense right now, then again their first few opponents were crappy, with these teams winning the three games a combined 148-0. Remember that ASU nearly upset a much better Wisconsin team in Camp Randall two years ago, and this Wisconsin team struggled early in the year last year losing @ Oregon State. The biggest question is whether or not ASU’s defensive line can hold up to Wisconsin’s relentless rushing attack. Uh, have you seen Will Sutton?? And, interestingly enough, ASU comes in as a four point favorite. Oh, and ASU is 8-0 at home against the Big 10. Let’s make it 9-0. ASU 34 Wisconsin 31.
Week 3 Game of the Week:
Alabama @ Texas A&M – How do you even break down this match-up? Let’s rewind to last year…Alabama had just come home after an emotional come-from-behind win @ LSU @ night. A&M was hot, and Alabama was flat. A&M scored three quick TDs and it looked like Alabama was done. Then A&M missed that third extra point and all of the sudden momentum shifted. Alabama spotted the Aggies three TDs, committed three turnovers themselves, and yet still found themselves goal-to-go with a chance to win it in the fourth quarter. You know Saban and company have been scheming for this one since McCarron’s INT that sealed it for A&M. The key to this game will be if Alabama can retain its focus and composure; especially in front of a hostile crowd in College Station. A&M will score, and score quite a bit – this isn’t your 2011 or 2012 Alabama defense. And, this isn’t your 2012 Alabama offensive line that allowed that fourth quarter comeback against LSU, that second half comeback against A&M, and that dominant performance against Notre Dame. As much as I respect Alabama’s program, and as annoying as I find Johnny Autograph, I was even more shocked to see Vegas had Alabama as a seven point favorite. I think we’ll see something similar to the 2010 Alabama/Auburn game. Alabama just won’t have enough to slow down, or to keep up with A&M. Wrong team favored – A&M 27 Alabama 20.
Until next time…
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Week 1 Recap and Week 2 Preview
Week 1 is in the books, and my Top-10 is largely unchanged. I just flip-flopped Clemson and Georgia. I don’t get why the AP makes changes at the top when you don’t play or you still win. Does Stanford really look that bad by not playing that they drop in the polls? And does Oregon’s blow out against whomever they played (I really can’t remember) all of the sudden make them look better than Ohio State because the Buckeyes struggled at times against Buffalo? I’m glad the playoffs will be chosen by a committee rather than letting the human polls have such an impact…
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 1 Top-10 recap:
1. Do you think some of these schools are rethinking paying FCS teams a ton of money to come play? Seven FCS teams took down FBS schools this weekend, most notably Eastern Washington going into Corvallis and taking out the ranked Beavers and not so surprisingly North Dakota State taking out Kansas State in Manhattan. I mean, we knew K-State wasn’t going to be the team they were last year, and the Bison have a history of beating FBS teams (now 7-3).
2. Oh boy does Kevin Sumlin have his hands full with Johnny Autograph. Not only did the spoiled little rich kid make a mockery of himself against Rice, but after the stupid taunting penalty and bumping through his coach after Sumlin tried to talk to him, his response is to bench him for the rest of the game? If you really want to make a statement Kevin, bench him for the next game AND the first quarter against Alabama. Watching this spoiled little rich kid melt-down is supposed to be TMZ material for the likes of Lindsay Lohan and Miley Cyrus, not the defending Heisman winner. Oh, and did I mention this was Rice? If lowly Rice (who put up 509 yards of offense by the way) gets under Manziel’s skin this easily, imagine what Saban, C.J. Mosley and company are gonna do when Alabama comes to town in a couple weeks.
3. Washington’s “upset” of Boise pretty much eliminates the BCS buster for the year. If Washington can figure out how to win on the road, they’ve got a chance to make some noise in the PAC-12 North. And, they do get Oregon at home. Of course though, they’ll likely lose on the road @ Illinois this weekend.
4. When I mentioned Boise losing “pretty much eliminates” a BCS buster this year, keep an eye on the Western Kentucky @ Tennessee game this weekend. Western Kentucky could make it 2-0 against the SEC, and don’t think that won’t come into play if they end up running the table.
5. I’m torn on the NCAA’s new targeting rule – aka, the when in doubt, throw ‘em out rule. I understand the emphasis on player protection and the typical 15-yard penalty wasn’t deterring any hits. But, it’s football. Hard hitting is part of the game. Clowney’s hit against Michigan in the bowl game last year probably qualifies under this new rule. And I hate when I see players slide to avoid a hit to the mid section that results in a blast to the head. We’ll see what impact this new rule has, and so far I think the refs are batting about 50/50 when it comes to “correct” interpretation of the rule.
6. A few Top-25 teams escaped with wins this weekend; most notably Ohio State and Nebraska. Ohio State just looked slow, and Nebraska’s defense obviously hasn’t improved since last year. Being outgained by Wyoming in Lincoln is never a good thing. At least Ohio State and Wisconsin aren’t on the schedule.
7. The PAC-12 South is the only unbeaten conference or subconference after week 1. And with Utah and Colorado in the division, that’s saying something. Of course Utah barely got by Utah State and Colorado always struggles with Colorado State…
8. Speaking of struggles, Notre Dame didn’t give up a rushing TD until game 8 against Oklahoma last year, and already gave up one against Temple this year. That’s right, a team picked to finish in the basement of the Big East…errrrr….AAC scored a rushing TD against Notre Dame. Uh oh. But, Rees and the offense looked better than I thought they would; sadly, it won’t be enough to get by Michigan this weekend.
9. LSU had an efficient, balanced offense and stellar defense against TCU, yet the game was still in doubt into the 4th. Miles’ offensive looked good under their new offensive coordinator, but going 13-19 on 3rd down will always make an offense look good. LSU should cruise to 4-0 before they travel to Georgia on September 28th.
10. The game of the week lived up to the hype with Clemson holding off Georgia for a huge opening night win. Tajh Boyd is now in the Heisman discussion, and Sammy Watkins continues to live up to the hype at wide receiver. Ultimately, Clemson needed this one more to stay in the National Title hunt, but Georgia has to beat South Carolina this weekend, or they’re done.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (1-0) – 59 point favorites and they covered! And they’re crawling up the AP poll as well. Don’t worry, they’ll have you #1 soon enough.
#2 Ohio State (1-0) – A little hint; don’t let teams like Buffalo keep it close if you want to stay #2.
#3 South Carolina (1-0) – Gonna need to improve on both sides to have a chance this weekend against Georgia.
#4 Stanford (0-0) – Week 1 bye? Really?
#5 Alabama (1-0) – The defense and special teams looked great. The offense? Not so much…
#6 Louisville (11-0) – No that’s not a misprint. I’ve you 11-0 to save me the trouble of updating it every week. Note that I’m not sure you win @ Cincy to end the year…
#7 Clemson (1-0) – Impressive win to open the season. Next up: October 19th when Florida State comes to Death Valley.
#8 Oklahoma State (1-0) – Bring on the U.T. San Antonio Road Runners!
#9 Georgia (0-1) – By far the best one loss team in football.
#10 Florida (1-0) – What was Herbstreit smoking that he had you losing to Toldeo?
Heisman Watch:
Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina – If this is the kind of scrutiny he’s going to be under every game, he doesn’t stand a chance. I’ve never seen as much attention paid to whether or not a defensive lineman was in the game or not, if he had one hand or two hands on his knees during a huddle, how much he was breathing or not, etc. etc. etc. Yikes. Hope that’s just a week 1 thing.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – Oregon looked great; Ohio State did not. But, unlike the AP, I don’t change rankings when you win.
Week 2 Big Games:
Florida @ Miami – Old rivals (errr….big regional game?) that haven’t met since 2008 are back at it for one last time. Florida’s defense picked up right where they left off last year. Miami’s not quite back to the Miami of old, but they’re on their way. I like Florida 27 to 17.
Notre Dame @ Michigan – The last three between these rivals have been chaos – Michigan blowing a 21-7 lead in 2010 only to score in the final minute to win it; Notre Dame blowing 24-7 4th quarter lead, ending with three lead changes in the final two minutes in 2011; and of course the ugliness of the 2012 game in which we realized that Notre Dame’s defense was legit, forcing six turnovers and holding Michigan to six points. There will be more points than the 13-6 version of last year. Let’s pick Michigan 23 to 20.
Week 2 Game of the Week:
South Carolina @ Georgia – Georgia had its heart stomped out in Death Valley last weekend, but they can get right back into it this weekend at home against South Carolina. In order for my prediction of an SEC-less BCS Championship, I need Georgia to win this one. And have Georgia beat LSU. And LSU beat Alabama, and Alabama beat A&M. Piece one starts this weekend: Georgia 34 South Carolina 24.
Until next time…
Now here’s the Autumn Wind’s week 1 Top-10 recap:
1. Do you think some of these schools are rethinking paying FCS teams a ton of money to come play? Seven FCS teams took down FBS schools this weekend, most notably Eastern Washington going into Corvallis and taking out the ranked Beavers and not so surprisingly North Dakota State taking out Kansas State in Manhattan. I mean, we knew K-State wasn’t going to be the team they were last year, and the Bison have a history of beating FBS teams (now 7-3).
2. Oh boy does Kevin Sumlin have his hands full with Johnny Autograph. Not only did the spoiled little rich kid make a mockery of himself against Rice, but after the stupid taunting penalty and bumping through his coach after Sumlin tried to talk to him, his response is to bench him for the rest of the game? If you really want to make a statement Kevin, bench him for the next game AND the first quarter against Alabama. Watching this spoiled little rich kid melt-down is supposed to be TMZ material for the likes of Lindsay Lohan and Miley Cyrus, not the defending Heisman winner. Oh, and did I mention this was Rice? If lowly Rice (who put up 509 yards of offense by the way) gets under Manziel’s skin this easily, imagine what Saban, C.J. Mosley and company are gonna do when Alabama comes to town in a couple weeks.
3. Washington’s “upset” of Boise pretty much eliminates the BCS buster for the year. If Washington can figure out how to win on the road, they’ve got a chance to make some noise in the PAC-12 North. And, they do get Oregon at home. Of course though, they’ll likely lose on the road @ Illinois this weekend.
4. When I mentioned Boise losing “pretty much eliminates” a BCS buster this year, keep an eye on the Western Kentucky @ Tennessee game this weekend. Western Kentucky could make it 2-0 against the SEC, and don’t think that won’t come into play if they end up running the table.
5. I’m torn on the NCAA’s new targeting rule – aka, the when in doubt, throw ‘em out rule. I understand the emphasis on player protection and the typical 15-yard penalty wasn’t deterring any hits. But, it’s football. Hard hitting is part of the game. Clowney’s hit against Michigan in the bowl game last year probably qualifies under this new rule. And I hate when I see players slide to avoid a hit to the mid section that results in a blast to the head. We’ll see what impact this new rule has, and so far I think the refs are batting about 50/50 when it comes to “correct” interpretation of the rule.
6. A few Top-25 teams escaped with wins this weekend; most notably Ohio State and Nebraska. Ohio State just looked slow, and Nebraska’s defense obviously hasn’t improved since last year. Being outgained by Wyoming in Lincoln is never a good thing. At least Ohio State and Wisconsin aren’t on the schedule.
7. The PAC-12 South is the only unbeaten conference or subconference after week 1. And with Utah and Colorado in the division, that’s saying something. Of course Utah barely got by Utah State and Colorado always struggles with Colorado State…
8. Speaking of struggles, Notre Dame didn’t give up a rushing TD until game 8 against Oklahoma last year, and already gave up one against Temple this year. That’s right, a team picked to finish in the basement of the Big East…errrrr….AAC scored a rushing TD against Notre Dame. Uh oh. But, Rees and the offense looked better than I thought they would; sadly, it won’t be enough to get by Michigan this weekend.
9. LSU had an efficient, balanced offense and stellar defense against TCU, yet the game was still in doubt into the 4th. Miles’ offensive looked good under their new offensive coordinator, but going 13-19 on 3rd down will always make an offense look good. LSU should cruise to 4-0 before they travel to Georgia on September 28th.
10. The game of the week lived up to the hype with Clemson holding off Georgia for a huge opening night win. Tajh Boyd is now in the Heisman discussion, and Sammy Watkins continues to live up to the hype at wide receiver. Ultimately, Clemson needed this one more to stay in the National Title hunt, but Georgia has to beat South Carolina this weekend, or they’re done.
Now on to the Top-10 in the standings:
Top-10:
#1 Oregon (1-0) – 59 point favorites and they covered! And they’re crawling up the AP poll as well. Don’t worry, they’ll have you #1 soon enough.
#2 Ohio State (1-0) – A little hint; don’t let teams like Buffalo keep it close if you want to stay #2.
#3 South Carolina (1-0) – Gonna need to improve on both sides to have a chance this weekend against Georgia.
#4 Stanford (0-0) – Week 1 bye? Really?
#5 Alabama (1-0) – The defense and special teams looked great. The offense? Not so much…
#6 Louisville (11-0) – No that’s not a misprint. I’ve you 11-0 to save me the trouble of updating it every week. Note that I’m not sure you win @ Cincy to end the year…
#7 Clemson (1-0) – Impressive win to open the season. Next up: October 19th when Florida State comes to Death Valley.
#8 Oklahoma State (1-0) – Bring on the U.T. San Antonio Road Runners!
#9 Georgia (0-1) – By far the best one loss team in football.
#10 Florida (1-0) – What was Herbstreit smoking that he had you losing to Toldeo?
Heisman Watch:
Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina – If this is the kind of scrutiny he’s going to be under every game, he doesn’t stand a chance. I’ve never seen as much attention paid to whether or not a defensive lineman was in the game or not, if he had one hand or two hands on his knees during a huddle, how much he was breathing or not, etc. etc. etc. Yikes. Hope that’s just a week 1 thing.
BCS Title Game Prediction:
Oregon v. Ohio State – Oregon looked great; Ohio State did not. But, unlike the AP, I don’t change rankings when you win.
Week 2 Big Games:
Florida @ Miami – Old rivals (errr….big regional game?) that haven’t met since 2008 are back at it for one last time. Florida’s defense picked up right where they left off last year. Miami’s not quite back to the Miami of old, but they’re on their way. I like Florida 27 to 17.
Notre Dame @ Michigan – The last three between these rivals have been chaos – Michigan blowing a 21-7 lead in 2010 only to score in the final minute to win it; Notre Dame blowing 24-7 4th quarter lead, ending with three lead changes in the final two minutes in 2011; and of course the ugliness of the 2012 game in which we realized that Notre Dame’s defense was legit, forcing six turnovers and holding Michigan to six points. There will be more points than the 13-6 version of last year. Let’s pick Michigan 23 to 20.
Week 2 Game of the Week:
South Carolina @ Georgia – Georgia had its heart stomped out in Death Valley last weekend, but they can get right back into it this weekend at home against South Carolina. In order for my prediction of an SEC-less BCS Championship, I need Georgia to win this one. And have Georgia beat LSU. And LSU beat Alabama, and Alabama beat A&M. Piece one starts this weekend: Georgia 34 South Carolina 24.
Until next time…
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