2008 NFL ATS Pick 'Em: Week 11

What up peeps. Matt Barnes here. For those who I have not yet met, your loss. No, I'm kidding. Glad to take this off the hands of Luke for a week as he celebrates his final weekend as an undergraduate student. It has to feel pretty good, considering the guy has attended two universities, had three different majors, and six different residences. Too bad he has no real future in life huh?

But enough potshots at my friend Luke, time to get to business. The ATS season is heading to the stretch run. No more bye weeks so a full slate of 16 games each week. Some started out strong with the solid Jets pick. Others, like myself, already find themselves in the hole.

After ten weeks, Josh is our leader. Justin was at the top but after a Detroit Lions-like 3-11 performance last week, he is now in fifth. Meanwhile, you know the saying that if you're not the lead dog, the view stays the same? Well, right now, I have 19 white asses in front of my face. (Yeah, I can say that cause I'm the only black guy, hell, just call me token).

But enough chit chat, on to the picks. Some of the usual special sections are extinct this week. Why? I don't know. Maybe because I'm not worthy of such hilarity. Plus, comments were scarce, even from "Mr. Reliable" Jake. Regardless, the post must go on...

New York Jets @ New England Patriots (-3)

Maxine Hunt Pick of the Week -- Almost 1 p.m. when making the pick, so she took the first game. "Benny and the Jets" -- and she was singing it. You bet, Maxine Hunt singing "Benny and the Jets." Suddenly I flashed forward to some kind of family reunion. I guess I'm having LOST withdrawal or something.

NYJ: Chewy, Hunt, Jeff, Polito, Braves, Bursa, Sara, Luke, Josh
NE: Barnes, Lucius, Brian, Devin, Rapking, Jake, Shane, Justin, Grothaus, Curtis, Bart

Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons (-6)

When I look at this game, all I can think of is that Super Bowl game between the two just 10 years ago. But even more memorable, that damn dirty bird dance that swept a nation. For the love of God, I hope someone brings that back. My Pick: ATL (-6)

Devin: "Good things are happening in Atlanta. Denver probably wont throw for 450 yds this week" Well, considering Denver has no run game, it's possible.

Hunt: "Originally went with the Falcons on this one, but then changed to the Broncos after finding out the Falcons have a worse passing defense than the Browns do. And that's counting the Browns' game against the Broncos last week, when Cleveland KNEW the running game would be absent." Oh to be a Browns fan...

Luke: "Jay Cutler > Matt Ryan. It's that simple" Denver run game <>

DEN: Lucius, Hunt, Bursa, Luke, Chewy, Jake, Shane
ATL: Barnes, Jeff, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Justin, Bart, Sara, Josh, Braves, Brian

Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins (-10.5)

Another West Coast team traveling to the East Coast for an early start. So far, West Coast has yet to win so Raiders will lose. And since they are the Raiders, they probably lose bad. My Pick: MIA (-10.5)

Devin: "Please lose by less than 10. Please." Sounds like someone is begging.

Kevin: "Wildcats offense jumps out from behind the couch in this game. Yeah, you have to be a loyal reader of my comments to get that one (see: Dallas-St. Louis pick from Week 7)."

Luke: 'Too many points for a Miami team I don't trust. Wouldn't surprise me if the Raiders won straight up. Actually, on second thought, it probably would." Yeah, that would be a huge surprise. Quick, name 3 players on the Raiders defense!

OAK: Lucius, Devin, Sara, Josh, Braves, Luke, Chewy, Brian
MIA: Barnes, Hunt, Jeff, Polito, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Jake, Shane

Baltimore Ravens @ New York Giants (-6.5)

Yet another Super Bowl rematch from the past 10 years. This Super Bowl sucked though. In fact, the most exciting thing about his Super Bowl was the halftime show. Aerosmith, Britney Spears, N'Sync, Nelly and Mary J. Blige. Now that's a halftime show. My Pick: NYG (-6.5)

Devin: "I know they are going to lose one of these games." Not sure which team you're even talking about.

Kevin: "Q: Why wouldn't you want to be a receiver for the Ravens?
A: You'd always be catching Flacco.

OK, so it was a bad joke (but don't be surprised to see that as a headline somewhere eventually). If you want another reason for my pick, I just remembered my last night in Australia, we went to a bar with some random band thrown together on stage. It was more of a DJ rapping out to random mixes. His shirt said Zoo York and I remember simply yelling it. A lot. So I'm taking Zoo York." As if the joke wasn't bad enough, the story and reasoning for the pick take it a step further

Luke: "I should be a fan of the Ravens for knocking out Derek Anderson from my life, but they still have Ray Lewis." Yeah, and he killed a guy

BAL: Lucius, Justin, Jake
NYG: Everyone Else

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts (-8.5)

Just going to point out one thing. The first name of the quarterback of the Texans is Sage. That's the same name as an herb used for seasoning of food. 'Nuff said. My Pick: IND (-8.5)

Devin: "I hate Peyton. Has worked so far." Do you hate Peyton the QB or Peyton the commercial whore? Cause those are two different people. I prefer the QB.

Kevin: "Too bad the Texans couldn't keep Sage Rosenfels out of the lineup more often this season. Same goes for Ahman Green. There was a Ron Dayne sighting in Madison this week. Did you know he supposedly talked with the Titans before this season started? Tennessee was worried about Lendale White coming off a knee injury. I guess all the right choices were made in that scenario. Including the part that sent Ron Dayne back to the home of his alma mater. Life is good.

This was a close, amazing game when these teams played earlier this season. This could be a much higher margin of defeat for the Colts as long as Marvin Harrison is all there and not concussed." God, Ron Dayne has to be pushing 400 lbs these days
HOU: Lucius, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Josh
IND: Barnes, Hunt, Jeff, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Braves, Luke, Chewy, Jake, Brian, Shane

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-4)

I feel bad for Jake. So just for him and his sanity, I'm gonna take the Packers. That and I just can't believe Rex Grossman is starting another game in the NFL. My Pick: GB (-4)

Kevin: "Back the Pack cause the Pack is Back! How was this line formulated? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?" Sounds like a job for Wikipedia

Luke: "REX GROSSMAN ON THE ROAD!" LOUD NOISES!

CHI: Jeff, Devin, Rapking, Sara, Braves, Chewy, Jake
GB: Matt, Lucius, Hunt, Polito, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Josh, Luke, Brian, Shane

Philadelphia Eagles (-9) @ Cincinnati Bengals

The final 7 games of Marvin Lewis' run with the Bengals start. Unless he pulls out a miracle and wins them all. My Pick: CIN (+9)

Devin: "Now that the Bengals won one they can go back to losing by 30pts per game." That or they keep winning. Haha, yeah, that's not happening.

Kevin: "You said you wanted Luke to end his college career with a bang, so I'm taking the Bang-als. If I lose this pick, I blame Luke. And Corey Taylor. And Bursa." Pressure is on boys. Even on Corey who isn't even in the league. Ouch.

PHI: Lucius, Devin, Sara, Josh, Chewy, Jake, Brian, Shane
CIN: Barnes, Hunt, Jeff, Rapking, Polito, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Braves, Luke

New Orleans Saints (-5) @ Kansas City Chiefs

Anyone else disappointed that Herm hasn't gone crazy yet? He's due for a press conference meltdown soon. Maybe after Drew Brees throws for 450 yds this week, it'll finally come. My Pick: NO (-5)

Devin: "KC is due for a 30pt beat down. Herm is due for some great quotes and a new job." Amen brother. This could be really ugly

Kevin: "Ballbuster Pick of the Week: Picking the 8th game because I had a sweeps piece that was 8 minutes long tonight. It was a one-on-one interview with the Madison Police Chief, who's starting his 25th year in Madison PD. So I'm taking the team whose #25 has been around longer. Reggie Bush? Or rookie Jamaal Charles? Saints it is. (Side note: I can't seem to remember too much about the USC vs. Notre Dame game from 2005 -- the one some called, "The Game of the Century" -- and what was written after that game. I was glad to find out that at least wikipedia called the final scoring play, "The Bush Push." If not, I would have been highly disappointed that no one came up with it earlier. No, I haven't forgiven him for it to this day, though I was glad that it was an incredible game -- at the time, the most watched college football game in nine years. Reggie, you can at least make up for SOME of it by getting me a win this week... in a game picked randomly... based off an NBC 15 sweeps piece.)"

Luke: "Have to love Herm going for two last week. Meanwhile, this spread seems suspiciously too low" Almost as good as them going for two is the fact that they missed an XP earlier. This team is miserable.

NO: Barnes, Lucius, Hunt, Jeff, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Bursa, Sara, Josh, Luke, Chewy, Jake, Shane
KC: Justin, Bart, Braves, Brian

Detroit Lions @ Carolina Panthers (-14)

I'm the lucky one who gets this dandy of a game at 1pm on FOX. Only thing that could make this game worth watching is Gus Johnson. My Pick: CAR (-14)

Devin: "Does Detroit get any points because Marinelli is trying hard. Come back and coach the d-line anytime you want coach." Yeah, he may have be in over his head

Kevin: "15 was too many points for the Chargers last week over the Chiefs (and, oddly enough, I'm listening to the song, "Fifteen" by Taylor Swift as I type this). 14, however, will be just fine for the Panthers. Don't be that surprised by the lack of passing game for Carolina last week -- the Raiders are the 13th ranked passing defense in the league and hold opposing QBs to the 12th lowest passer rating. But the Panthers rank 6th and 4th in those same categories, respectively. And they will face JaMarcus Russell (doubtful) or Andrew Walter (more likely) at home." Stop reading this when I read Taylor Swift

DET: Lucius, Polito, Justin, Bursa, Sara, Josh, Luke, Chewy, Shane
CAR: Barnes, Hunt, Jeff, Devin, Rapking, Bart, Sara, Jake, Braves, Brian

Minnesota Vikings @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3.5)

Tough one to pick. The Vikings are playing good football finally. The Bucs are coming off a bye week so who knows what the hell to expect. I do like the mascot matchup though of Vikings vs. Buccaneers. Sounds like a good movie to me. My Pick: TB (-3.5)

Kevin: "And commence all of the automotive puns dealing with Cadillac Williams's return to the roster this week. Hopefully his partial season doesn't end up like the real-life automotive industry. Somewhere Henry Ford just took a straight shot of Wild Turkey (or the personal favorite of Lucius, Old Fitzgerald. If you ever have the opportunity to have some of that stuff, don't do it. Believe me, don't.)." Yea, Old Fitzgerald is no joke

Luke: "Yep, Adrian Peterson would have looked pretty good in a Browns uniform. Nice pick Phil." Correction: No one looks good in a Browns jersey.

MIN: Jeff, Devin, Polito, Braves, Luke, Brian, Shane
TB: Barnes, Lucius, Hunt, Rapking, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Josh, Chewy, Jake

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers (-6)

When I first saw the Niners were favored, I couldn't believe it. But then I remembered just how bad the Rams defense is and got over it. My Pick: SF (-6)

Devin: "I hope I am wrong. Singletary needs a win and he needs to be the coach of the 49ers." Needs to? Why? So Coors Light has a new coach to make fun of?

Kevin: "I listened in to a conversation of about 20 minutes on Jonathan Taylor Thomas's (JTT) sexuality last week at a friend's apartment. I had no clue what anyone was really talking about or reasoning with and decided the only thing I could add would be a snide remark about how it must be something with the three-initial names, like JTO, or the quarterback formerly known as John Tremain.

Part of me wants to change this pick depending on Steven Jackson's status for the game. But seeing as how I'll probably forget, let this be a testament to all the work that I don't really put into these picks." Truly confused

STL: Hunt, Devin, Rapking, Justin, Josh, Braves, Brian
SF: Barnes, Lucius, Jeff, Polito, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Luke, Chewy, Jake, Shane

Arizona Cardinals (-3) @ Seattle Seahawks

Any other week, this is an easy pick. Cardinals are clearly the better team on paper but the impact of Matt Hasselback coming back and playing his first game at home in chilly Seattle makes this pick a toss-up. And for me, that means I'll make the wrong one. My Pick: AZ (-3)

Devin: "Arizona is good. Seattle sucks. Warner is MVPish. I cant name Seattle's QB." I call your bluff Frank

Kevin: "If the Cardinals decide to take the Broncos playbook and let Kurt Warner throw all day, it could be the worst thing ever for opposing defenses. Plus, the most exciting offense in the NFL to watch

Luke: "MVP for Kurt Warner. Get ready for Canton." Kurt Warner in the Hall of Fame? Say it ain't so
AZ: Barnes, Hunt, Lucius, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Braves, Luke, Chewy, Brian, Shane
SEA: Jeff, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Josh, Jake

Tennessee Titans (-3) @ Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jags were my Super Bowl pick. Yeah, laugh it up all you want. But you won't be laughing when they beat the Titans today. Maybe Jack Del Rio will lighten up after this win too. My Pick: JAX (+3)

Devin: "At 3 points I pick em till they lose. Unless apparently they are playing wyoming." Nice college football reference

Luke: "They just don't lose. It's that simple." Another bad use of the word "simple".

TEN: Lucius, Devin, Sara, Josh, Braves, Luke, Chewy, Jake, Shane
JAX: Barnes, Hunt, Jeff, Rapking, Polito, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Brian

San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-4.5)

Since it is a 4:15 start, the Chargers have a legit shot to win this game. But seriously, if they could barely put away the Chiefs in 4 quarters, what makes you think they can handle the Steelers? My Pick: PIT (-4.5)

Devin: "Who are the San Diego Chargers? Seriously. Any input would be greatly appreciated." Wikipedia says they are an NFL team

Kevin: "I'd like to take this opportunity to thank odds-makers for the half-point spread. Anything that doesn't end in a .5 means there can be ties. These scenarios enrage Lucius, who once told me that tying a game is worse than losing -- and that it was like kissing your sister.

This got me thinking -- what if you don't have a sister? Would you ever really, truly understand the meaning of that phrase? I motion to change the phrase to something else. I'll probably spend the rest of the NFL season trying to think one up." I'm on the edge of my seat

Luke: "No way am I backing Norv Turner on the road." I wouldn't back Norv Turner anywhere

SD: Lucius, Hunt, Jeff, Justin, Sara, Braves, Brian, Shane
PIT: Barnes, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Bursa, Bart, Josh, Luke, Chewy, Jake

Dallas Cowboys (-1) @ Washington Redskins

I'm looking at this game politically. I want Dallas (Dubya) to lose and Washington (our govt/economy) to recover from the Steelers loss. Plus, I don't think Tony Romo is the savior for this team. My Pick: WAS (+1)

Kevin: "Romo may be back. Portis may be out. That, and the next guy to go to Washington, Barack Obama, screwed me over on my picks last week. But whatever, he can do what he wants now. And that includes reminding me of the Dave Chappelle Racial Draft and thinking it's going to be Barack saying "For Shizzle" next (I fully expect the government to seek out this e-mail and arrest me by the end of next week). Bonus points for bringing up the Racial Draft

Luke: "Starting to get healthy ... I think." Well, according to Jessica Simpson in the latest US weekly...

DAL: Lucius, Hunt, Jeff, devin, Rapking, Polito, Braves, Luke, Shane
WAS: Barnes, Justin, Bursa, Bart, Sara, Josh, Chewy, Jake, Brian

Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills (-5.5)

Browns on national TV again? Hasn't America suffered enough with the economy and all? Oh well, maybe we can another defensive collapse. Though this time, I'm thinking it's the Bills that do it. Curveballed ya huh? My Pick: CLE (+5.5)

Devin: "Still riding the Brady Quinn high. Maybe I should be riding the Browns defense low?" That doesn't sound like a fun ride at all

Kevin: I may be done-skis before this game even starts. I fully plan on needing to drink before, during and after this game. I'm sure that'll make for a pleasant Tuesday morning to start off my work week. But we all know I'll need it to get through this one." Not to mention the random rambling from Kornheiser in the booth are enough to make your head hurt

Luke: "So in one week I am backing the Browns, Lions, Raiders and the Bengals. This is not good." But you know what is good. You not taking anymore college classes

CLE: Barnes, Lucius, Hunt, Devin, Justin, Bursa, Sara, Josh, Luke, Chewy, Brian, Shane
BUF: Jeff, Rapking, Polito, Bart, Braves, Jake


Alright, if I screwed up, my bad. Check your picks to make sure. Enjoy the games everyone.

College Football: Week 12

Welcome back to the college football weekly preview post. While some have been full of great games to be watched and somewhat knowledgeable analysis and predictions, this one is not. That;s because this week's slate of game is well, pathetic. It's odd to see a mid-November be so full of games that just aren't appealing.

Of course, the possibilities for upsets are there but they are some huge reaches. Hence, making the week that much more disappointing. But we must trudge on. Hey, at least we have Lou Holtz to be excited for?

As far as my picks, I went 11-4 last week, incorrectly calling the upsets of Bama and Texas Tech. Eh well, there's still time. Onward!

TOP 15 GAMES (Last week: 11-4, Season 92-58)

GAME OF THE WEEK
1. #24 South Carolina @ #3 Florida - Yeah, that's how bad this weekend's games are. USC comes into this one with the top defense in the SEC. But Florida has the top offense and have scored 102 points in the last two games. Right now, USC is a 21-point underdog but I got a feeling it's gonna be close. Gamecocks are 2-1 on the road and they (especially former Coach Spurrier) want this one BAD. FLORIDA wins but again, it will be close. Florida 31-27

REST OF THE BEST
2. #4 Texas @ Kansas - Hard to believe that KU is not ranked. Yeah, they are 6-4 but their 4 losses are very quality losses (USF when good, OKST, TTU, and Nebraska in Lincoln). Todd Reising is still a great QB and this team still has plenty of talent. If Texas is smart, they'll look past the 4 losses and treat KU as a Top 25 team because if they don't, they can kiss their title shot goodbye. I'll pick TEXAS but that is with some reservation.

3. #22 Cincinnati @ Louisville - Getting down to the nitty gritty in the Big East and right now, Cincy is tied at the top. But this weekend's trip to Louisville is nothing to sneeze at. The Cardinals have beaten UC 9 of 10 times, including the past 5. But I have faith in my former middle school classmates Torry and DeAngelo to lead CINCINNATI to a big win on the road.

4. Boston College @ #20 Florida State - Yeah, this is where Gameday is going live from. Again, a sign of a bad weekend of games. But this one is big for the ACC. Both teams can't afford another loss in this mediocre conference. Both teams are coming off a win so I can;t go with momentum. So in this case, I'll go with the home team. FLORIDA STATE wins, but really, who cares?

5. #10 Ohio State @ Illinois - This starts a series of games where one team is looking for redemption from an embarrassing loss. Last season, OSU looked to be well on its way to an undefeated season. But instead, Illinois spoiled Senior Day at the Show, beating the Bucks 28-21. I still remember that last drive by Illinois.

This season, the teams are completely different as is the locale. What else will be different? The result of the game. OHIO STATE is too good. Buckeyes 38-17

6. #6 USC @ Stanford - It may have been the upset of the year if not for Appalachian State. The Cardinal upsetting the mighty Trojans in SoCal. And the way they did it was that much better. You can relive it below:

Oh, I was screaming about that game all night, though I think my beverages may have played a part in that. But anyways, I hope Stanford can do it again. But I don't see lightning striking twice. USC redeems last year's loss.

7. Notre Dame @ Navy - It had been 44 years since the Irish had lost to Navy. But now, it's been less than a year. That's because last year Navy pulled off the upset, winning 46-44 in a game for the ages. Here's my fellow Gray TV station WNDU with your recap!

Poor sports guy. Not his best effort. Still won't forget watching ND right behind the Naval Academy as they sang with their band. Just amazing stuff. As for this year, no Paul Johnson for Navy at coach and for Notre Dame, Weis calling plays. I'll take NOTRE DAME.

8. California @ #23 Oregon State - Well Cal gave it their best shot against USC, keeping the game tight. Now, they get to face the one team to beat USC. Oregon State has quietly had a good season and has made its way into the Top 25. And don't forget, if Oregon State wins out, they win the Pac-10. With that in mind plus the fact that Cal is prolly a bit beat up from USC, I will go with OREGON STATE to keep BCS dreams alive.

9. Virginia Tech @ Miami (FL) (THU) - Another clunker of a Thursday night game. Thankfully, there is an NFL game on and I have the NFL Network. So while I would love to act like I care about this game, I won't waste your time. I'm picking VIRGINIA TECH.

10. #17 North Carolina @ Maryland - UNC may be 7-2 and coming off a very impressive 28-7 win over GT. But here are the stats that matter. MD is 5-0 at home and 3-0 against the Top 25. I'm gonna go with those stats and in my APPY pick, take MARYLAND to take down the Tar Heels.

11. #11 Oklahoma State @ Colorado - Been an up and down year for the Buffs. At times, they look like they would make noise in the Big 12. At other times, they just roll over and get run over. Something tells me OKST is coming into this game angry after their beatdown by TTU. So the Buffs better beware. OKLAHOMA STATE takes out their frustration and wins big.

12. Mississippi State @ #1 Alabama - The past two season, Sylvester Croom's kids have beaten the Crimson Tide. If his team does it again this season, it may just save his job (though I can't envision another black coach being fired this season). The Tide have looked sketchy at times but even I know that Bama is much better and should roll. ALABAMA wins in a rout.

13. Indiana @ #7 Penn State - Now is not the time for a letdown for PSU. Yeah, the loss to Iowa hurts a lot but there is still hope for the title game. More realistically, a shot to play USC in the Rose Bowl. But that all goes bye bye with one more loss. We'll see just how mentally tough this team is this week. I'll go with PENN STATE in a blowout.

14. Wake Forest @ NC State - Wake is right in the thick of the ACC race...somehow. They have been horrendous this season. But the last two games have been a promising sign. The team has put some actual points on the board after being shutout two weeks in a row before that. NC State is 1-4 in the ACC and out of the hunt so they are just hoping to play spoiler. I see them being able to do it. NC STATE wins in a mini-upset.

15. Minnesota @ Wisconsin - The mighty Golden Gophers have fallen from the Top 25 fast. Kind of like how 'Sconsin did in October. Now, it's a battle of two teams that hope to redeem themselves from a midseason slump. 'Sconsin still isn't bowl-eligible so this game is really big for them. And since it is Senior Day at Camp Randall, I'll going with WISCONSIN.

TEAMS I LOVE (OR ACT LIKE I LOVE)

#13 Georgia @ Auburn - The fact that UK scored 38 points on UGA's defense should scare Bulldog fans going into Auburn. But then we all remember how incredibly bad Auburn's offense is. GEORGIA wins big and goes into the second bye week happy. Bulldogs 45-10

NFL Week 10 Power Rankings

So what did we learn this week in the NFL? Well, Daunte Culpepper may be an upgrade at QB for the Lions but he's no savior. The Browns defense doesn't believe in bend but don't break (it just breaks). The Titans and Giants know how to win the tough games. And that the Atlanta Falcons are for real.

The playoff picture is still wide open, considering that teams like Indianapolis and Minnesota are starting to make their charge while teams like Buffalo and Dallas are falling apart week by week. Should make for some fun games in the weeks ahead. And no more bye weeks!

1. Tennessee (9-0) - When the rushing attack could only muster up, Kerry Collins stepped up with 289 yards through the air. Good sign. (Next @ JAX)
2. Pittsburgh (6-3) - Tough loss to IND but even with injuries, they almost won. Mewelde Moore has come up big for them. (Next vs. SD)
3. Baltimore (6-3) - They've won 4 in a row. And forced 4 INT from Houston. Schedule is tough rest of the way though. (Next @ NYG)
4. New England (6-3) - Defending conference champs are looking like it. Defense really playing well despite Rodney Harrison on IR. (Next Thurs vs. NYJ)
5. Indianapolis (5-4) - Uh oh, this team may have awaken. Another Manning comeback and a defense that thrives on the turnovers. (Next vs. HOU)
6. NY Jets (6-3) - Yeah, they only beat the Rams but the way they dominated from start to finish had to scare their future opponents. (Next Thurs @ NE)
7. Miami (5-4) - 3 wins in a row but only beating the hapless Seahawks by 2 points cannot please the Big Tuna and company. (Next vs. OAK)
8. Denver (5-4) - The Cleveland defense was bad but Jay Cutler and the offense was also that good. Now if they could play defense. (Next @ ATL)
9. San Diego (4-5) - Didn't look impressive vs. KC but a win is a win. And with Denver just one game ahead, look for a charge - pun intended. (Next @ PIT)
10. Jacksonville (4-5) - Playing the Lions had to help with confidence. But playoffs look bleak for them unless they run the table. (Next vs. TEN)
11. Buffalo (5-4) - They've lost 3 in a row and looked bad doing it. And in the AFC East, they can't afford to fall any further behind. (Next Mon vs. CLE)
12. Cleveland (3-6) - The Brady Quinn era has begun. Meanwhile, there's a feeling the Romeo Crennel era is coming to an end. (Next Mon @ BUF)
13. Kansas City (1-8) - They stood toe to toe with SD until the end and Tyler Thigpen is turning into a solid QB before our eyes. (Next vs. NO)
14. Cincinnati (1-8) - Something tells me that the bye week did them some good. Chance for them to right this ship in final 7 games. (Next vs. PHI)
15. Houston (3-6) - As long as Sage Rosenfels is the QB here, it spells trouble. He makes David Carr look like Dan Marino. (Next @ IND)
16. Oakland (2-7) - There are no words to describe just how bad the situation is here. "The doormat" of the AFC comes close. (Next @ MIA)


1. NY Giants (8-1) - The Super Bowl champs are playing like it. Still hard to believe the only loss is to Cleveland of all teams. (Next vs. BAL)
2. Tampa Bay (6-3) - Had the bye week to rest up. And for an aging but amazing defense, that means they'll be ready to go. (Next vs. MIN)
3. Atlanta (6-3) - You have to be impressed with this team. Shut down the Saints offense while their offense scored at will. (Next vs. DEN)
4. Carolina (7-2) - May have taken a step back on offense. Delhomme's 4 INT and 77 yds passing can't happen again. (Next vs. DET)
5. Arizona (6-3) - The Kurt Warner rebirth continues. They still need a running game but I'm just being picky. (Next @ SEA)
6. Washington (6-3) - Had the hot 4-1 start but 2-2 since. We'll see if the bye week helped them regain that magic. (Next vs. DAL)
7. Chicago (4-5) - Almost beat TEN even with Grossman at QB. They can shut down the run. The pass is a different story. (Next @ GB)
8. Minnesota (5-4) - They did not move up because of Gus Frerotte. They moved up because of Adrian Peterson. (Next @ TB)
9. Philadelphia (5-4) - Watching Donovan McNabb is fun again. But this team is now 0-3 in the NFC East. Forget the playoffs. (Next @ CIN)
10. Green Bay (4-5) - They probably should have beaten MIN. But again, the problem for this team is lack of a running game. (Next vs. CHI)
11. Dallas (5-4) - Romo is coming back which is good. But taking on WAS off the bye week won't be an easy first game back. (Next @ WAS)
12. New Orleans (4-5) - The offense needs some help from its defense. Forcing Brees to score 35 each game just isn't fair. (Next @ KC)
13. San Francisco (2-7) - Loved the fight they showed vs. Arizona. And Shaun Hill is a huge upgrade from O'Sullivan. (Next vs. STL)
14. Seattle (2-7) - Seneca Wallaca played admirably in relief. But Hasselback is coming back, and that means hopes for a win are too. (Next vs. AZ)
15. St. Louis (2-7) - Right when it looked like they were gonna turn the season around, Steven Jackson goes down to injury. Ouch. (Next @ SF)
16. Detroit (0-9) - Daunte Culpepper tried but even he can't turn around this team in one game. They aren't gonna win this season. (Next @ CAR)

CFB Week 11 Recap

Going into this past Saturday, I felt there was a good possibility that the three remaining undefeated BCS conference teams could all lose. All 3 had games that weren't going to be easy (or supposed to be). But instead of 3 losses, only one lost and unfortunately, it was the one that I figured would run the table. Eh well...

All in all, another good week of football. Some conference pictures are clearing up while others all just getting more and more complex. Oh, and there's that whole BCS picture that isn't exactly clear.

THE BIG 10 THINGS I LEARNED THIS WEEK

1. Losses motivate Terrelle Pryor - I was wondering how the freshman QB could come back after a tough loss in which he fumbled the win to his opponent. Well, question answered. Pryor played possibly his best game yet, especially through the air. He made plays with his legs to make plays with his arm. And despite his numerous scrambles backwards, he didn't lose yards. Instead, he got positive yardage out of almost every play. This OSU offense with him unde center will be fun to watch the next two seasons.

2. PSU needs a 2007 OSU miracle - Last season, OSU lost to Illinois in their second to last game and fell from #1 to #7 in the BCS standings. Many left them for dead and said they needed a miracle. Well, they got it and OSU jumped right back to the #1 spot somehow. Well, PSU needs the same to happen. Good thing is that a lot of the teams in front of them will have one loss and all will be Big 12 or SEC (besides USC) meaning the list is actually much smaller cause you have to win your own conference to make the BCS title game I think. I think it can happen again. A Bama loss to Auburn or Miss. St and Florida loss to South Carolina or FSU, and then Florida beating Bama in the SEC Championship may be the easiest road. But plenty of football to be played.

3. Red Raiders are for real - If you didn't believe it then, you have to believe it now. They may have beaten Texas on a last minute TD but they dominated an OKST team that Texas only beat by 4. Not only that, but they did it after that emotionally charged tussle with Texas. Graham Harrell may have taken the Heisman Trophy lead as well. But it's the defense that's really been impressive. And they'll need to be in two weeks against Oklahoma.

4. Bama vs. Florida for BCS Title Game berth? - Well, both have clinched their spot in the SEC Title game with wins this past Saturday. Of course, both still have some big games left. Bama vs. rival Auburn and Florida against a good South Carolina defense and rival FSU. But if both run the table, no doubt that the SEC title game might as well be a national semifinal with the winner heading to the BCS Title game. If that's the case, talk about exciting football to come.

5. USC's defense is BCS title-game worthy - Still don't like Pete Carroll or USC but man oh man, that defense is just unreal. In 9 games, it has given up just 60 points! And considering 27 of them came against Oregon State in their lone loss, it's given up just 33 in 8 games. Yea, thats a bit more than 4 points per game. Pretty darn good.

6. Brian Kelly is a great coach - I knew this before this game but what Kelly is doing with the Cincinnati Bearcats this season is just amazing. After getting smacked by Oklahoma in Week 2 and losing two quarterbacks, the Bearcats have bounced back nicely. Now, they are 7-2 and tied at the top of the Big East after a huge road win in OT over West Virginia. Cincy fans may not wanna hear this but Kelly is just padding that resume. Look for him to jump to a place like Tennessee or Clemson after this great coaching job.

7. Utah and Boise State in BCS? - Could that really happen? Two non-BCS schools jumping into the BCS? Well, it just might happen. Utah beat a ranked TCU team and Boise State is well, Boise State and have built a reputation now like Gonzaga has in college bball. And with the restrictions in no more than 2 per conference in BCS games, plus the fact that the SEC and Big 12 are the only two truly deserving conferences for that, it might happen. The sad thing is that Ball State is not getting any of this BCS love. But it's all good. They still have David Letterman.

8. Steve Spurrier is impossible to figure out - I hate to argue with a coach that has won a national title and has a lot of success in his career BUT alternating quarterbacks every other snap is just dumb. It leads to a lack of rhythm on offense for everyone. But the team won and scored 34 points so I don't wanna argue too much. But my advice to him to beat Florida next week is to just stick with one guy. And I choose Stephen Garcia.

9. The ACC saga continues... - I mention this pathetic conference every week because it just is. Everyone in the conference has at least 2 conference losses. In fact, there is a 3-way tie in each division. UNC is the highest ranked team in the conference at #17, lower than 4 non-BCS schools. I don't know the conference tiebreakers nor do I care but needless to say, ACC country can't wait for basketball to begin already.

10. The title chase is down to 6 - OKST is out after their 2nd loss of the year, leaving Bama, Tech, FLA, Texas, Okla and PSU. USC is not in the mix yet for me because the Pac-10 is weak and if the season ended today, would not even win the conference. Oregon State would. Tech-Okla have to face off as well as Bama-FLA so plenty to be decided still.

11. Michael Phelps seems to be a nice guy - I got to see the American "hero" at the South Carolina game and from all signs, seems like a nice guy. He stopped for pictures, signed some autographs, and really only stopped doing that until someone told him he had to. Of course, I got nothing but hey, he was 10 feet from me and that's closer than most of you ever will be. So take that.

BEST GAME - Penn State @ Iowa
I hated the fact that Penn State lost this game but I loved the scene of watching the Hawkeye fans have something to cheer about again. They've endured a lot since the Brad Banks days. And this game had all the twists and turns you want in a game. And that final drive was one that may have saved Kirk Ferentz's job.

WORST GAME - Bowling Green vs. Ohio
If you haven't noticed, I keep forgetting to pick the OU game. And while this is an honest mistake, I think it's also the case that I've just given up on this year's edition of the 'Cats. And after a 28-3 loss this past Saturday, I don't think I will be gaining any confidence. I'm just glad I couldn't see this game in person or on TV.

OVER/UNDER
After thinking long and hard, I think the team that was OVERRATED was MINNESOTA. I was just singing their praises a few weeks ago. But after two straight losses, including this week's lopsided loss to Michigan, maybe I jumped on the bandwagon too early.
And as far as the UNDERRATED team of the week, I'm going with UTAH. Why? Because despite being undefeated and playing at home, they were the underdog vs. TCU. And all they did was win 13-10 and keep their BCS game hopes alive.

HE/SHE SAID WHAT?
"He is like a mean brother on Thanksgiving day. He gives him a little leg and he takes it back away". - Brad Nessler

"Who are the people that run college football? Fifty-and-older white, Southern men. Those are the people who run college football, and so to expect progress from them is a tough battle. They want someone who looks like them." - Spencer Tillman, while CBS holds a discussion on 4 black coaches in all of I-A college football.

"If you want to get to the championship game stay in the ACC and dominate." - Lou Holtz
"If you want to get to the championship game, go to the Big Ten and not play anybody and win." - Mark May after the discussion began with whether UNC coach would leave for somewhere else.

3 QUESTIONS
1. I mean, I know Tennessee is having a tough year but really, how do they lose to Wyoming at home?

2. Now the national title looks to be a distant memory, is JoePa gonna retire after the season?

3. Why doesn't Boise State just become a member of the Pac-10 now? Because the WAC is becoming way too easy for them and I'm pretty sure they'd be able to finish in the Top 3 every season