2009 NFL Predictions

It's that time of year again. When Steelers fans buy their playoff tickets before the season even starts. When Browns fans exclaim this is their year. And when Lions fans just hope they just win a game this season.

The NFL season is just about upon us and yours truly couldn't be more excited. Last year was an amazing season. Atlanta and Baltimore led to the playoffs by rookie QBs. The latest return of Brett Favre to the NFL. Ed Hochuli blowing a call that actually determined the outcome of a game. Kurt Warner leading the Cardinals to a surprise Super Bowl appearance. And the Steelers winning their unprecedented 6th Super Bowl.

But this is a new season and there's lot to be decided (obviously). Last year, my predictions were downright awful. I picked the Browns to win their division and my Super Bowl winner (Jacksonville) and runner-up (Dallas) didn't even make the playoffs. But last year's awfulness isn't deterring me from making predictions for this season. So without further adieu, here are my predictions sure to be made fun come February 2010.

AFC EAST
1. New England (12-4)* - Tom Brady is back. Need I say more? Actually, yes. The offense obviously will benefit from Brady's return. Look for the dynamic pass offense from 2007 to fill up the stat, and maybe record books again. The only concern for this team is the aging defense. Can it hold up not only through the regular season but the postseason as well?

2. NY Jets (9-7) - There doesn't seem to be a lot of faith in this team but here's why I have some. Rex Ryan is one heck of a defensive coach and he'll do wonders with that defense. Mark Sanchez won't be spectacular but will be effective. Finally, people will underestimate them. This year, they'll be good. Next year, they'll be great.

3. Miami (8-8) - This year's schedule is much tougher than last year, hence the drop-off in wins. Chad Pennington is a fine QB but his receivers are anything but. The defense was a takeaway machine last year. Don't expect them to make that kind of impact again this season. Oh and that wildcat thing? Teams will figure it out soon enough.

4. Buffalo (5-11) - Yes, they have Terrell Owens, Lee Evans and Marshawn Lynch. But they also may have the worst O-Line in the NFL. That's not good news for an offense led by marginal QB Trent Edwards. Oh, and did I mention they fired their offensive coordinator last week? Gonna be a long year in Buffalo. Start the T.O. whining now.


NFC NORTH
1. Pittsburgh (12-4)* - It's not gonna be easy to repeat as Super Bowl champs but winning this division again should be a piece of cake. They return pretty much everyone from one of the best defenses in the league. And on offense, Rashard Mendenhall is back and should help a running game led by the slowing and aging Willie Parker.

2. Cincinnati (9-7)* - This all depends on the health of one player and one player only: Carson Palmer. He lost T.J. Houshmanzadeh but gains LaVeranues Coles. Mike Zimmer took over the defensive corps and should continue to bring about a new energy and intensity to the group. Plus, they have an easier schedule than most. Could be a fun year.

3. Baltimore (8-8) - I'm expecting Joe Flacco to have a bit of a sophomore slump at QB. His receiving corps is weak and I have a feeling they'll depend on their running game way too much. The defense will still be good but without Rex Ryan running, expect a small drop-off. A tough schedule won't help them either in their quest for the playoffs.

4. Cleveland (4-12) - I just don't see where this team got any better. They traded away their best playmaker (Kellen Winslow), brought in an average coach in Eric Mangini, and have yet to see a QB really step up to grab the top spot. They'll take some lumps this year, big time. They'll be smaller though if they start Brady Quinn over Derek Anderson.


NFC SOUTH
1. Indianapolis (11-5)* - Yes, Tony Dungy and Marvin Harrison are gone but the constant Peyton Manning is still there. The personnel has changed a bit but the core group is there to make another playoff run. Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders lead a pretty good defense too. Look out for Donald Brown at running back. Could make a big impact this season.

2. Jacksonville (10-6)* - They were much better than the 5-11 record last year. But thanks t injuries, they fell apart. Barring injury, they'll be back. The offense will be managed nicely by David Garrard, who has Maurice Jones-Drew to make the plays. The defense struggled last year but expect a resurgence. Jack Del Rio keeps his job if they make the playoffs.

3. Tennessee (8-8) - No Albert Haynesworth and D-Coordinator Jim Schwartz. Expect a drop-off from the defense. That means more pressure on the offense, which is led by mediocre QB Kerry Collins. Expect teams to play more men in the box to stop Chris Johnson and for this offense to struggle scoring points all season long.

4. Houston (7-9) - The Texans are a better team than the record I project but they are just in the wrong division. The offense will not disappoint, with Matt Schaub, Steve Slaton and Andre Johnson. But the defense, led by Mario Williams, is still a work in progress. They could be the surprise team of 2009 though, a la Atlanta or Miami from 2008.


NFC WEST
1. San Diego (12-4)* - They have the best offense and defense in the division. In fact, they'll probably have the division wrapped up in November. The biggest question will once again be if coach Norv Turner can overcome his struggles come January. This may be the year. He has all the pieces, barring injury. Now, he's got to make it happen.

2. Oakland (7-9) - Seeing that KC and Denver will be so bad, this is the chance for the Raiders to make a move. The running game should be solid. The passing game needs improvement though but I think Jamarcus Russell benefited from Jeff Garcia in training camp. The defense isn't stellar but they are young and talented.

3. Kansas City (5-11) - The record may not look good but this team will improve. Matt Cassel gives them a real QB for once. Dwayne Bowe is a legit deep threat too. And Todd Haley taking over as coach should really improve the offense. The defense though will struggle all season, which is the reason for the lack of victories in 2009.

4. Denver (4-12) - I'm not saying Josh McDaniels will be a bad coach but they will regret firing Mike Shanahan. Jay Cutler is gone and so is the mastermind of what was a great run offense. Now, the offense is led by Kyle Orton and last year's awful defense is transitioning to a whole new scheme. It's gonna be a tough year in the Mile High city.


NFC EAST
1. Philadelphia (12-4)* - Vick or no Vick, this team is good. Donovan McNabb has weapons and a line to protect him. A healthy Westbrook for the entire season would help too. The defense loses coordinator Jim Johnson but has plenty of talent to be one of the league's best. Oh, and Michael Vick could play a big role if Andy Reid plays his cards right.

2. NY Giants (11-5)* - The defense is too good to let this team fall too far. The return of Osi Umenyiora is huge. The offense still has Brandon Jacobs and Eli Manning. But there's no real threat at WR. If this team ever gets behind, it could be an ugly sight. This team is playoff-bound but beyond that may be wishful thinking.

3. Dallas (8-8) - The distraction that is Terrell Owens is gone but the pressure to make the playoffs is not. Tony Romo has yet to show he is a big-game QB and now, he is without a real #1 WR. The RB tandem of Marion Barber-Felix Jones should be potent. But the Cowboys have the oldest offensive line in the NFL. That's never good.

4. Washington (8-8) - The defense improves greatly with Albert Haynesworth and Brian Orakpo. But all eyes are on offense. Jason Campbell needs to have a big year to take some pressure off of Clinton Portis. If he does, this team could make some noise in the division. But I don't see that. Jim Zorn will keep his job but he'll be on thin ice.


NFC NORTH
1. Minnesota (11-5)* - They will have one of the best defenses in the NFL, which alone will keep them competitive. But with the addition of Brett Favre, they have a QB that understands what it takes to win a lot of games. With a true running back behind him this year, look for Favre to shine. Also, expect Percy Harvin to have a great rookie season.

2. Chicago (10-6) - Don't underestimate the importance of having Jay Cutler in Chicago. Though he has no receivers to throw to, it takes some pressure off of Matt forte in the backfield. The defense should be good once again, with the defensive line really improving upon last year's effort. They are a real dark horse contender this season.

3. Green Bay (9-7) - Happy days are almost back in Green Bay. Aaron Rodgers should have a monster season while RB Ryan Grant should also see a boost in his numbers. The downfall of this team may be the defense, which is moving to a 3-4 defense. They have the personnel for it. It's just that changing to a new scheme is never easy.

4. Detroit (3-13) - Yes, they will struggle once again but I do think they will win a game. Matthew Stafford didn't look good in the preseason, which isn't a good sign for the regular season. But starting him is the right thing to do. He'll have a great wideout in Calvin Johnson and that's it. On defense, the linebackers are the only standouts.


NFC SOUTH
1. Atlanta (11-5)* - Last season ws no fluke. Matt Ryan has real weapons and Michael Turner is the real deal at RB. Tony Gonzalez provides a veteran presence to the young sqaud. The offense will put up plenty of points and control the ball. That's good cause the defense needs some work, especially in the secondary. Regardless, should be a great season.

2. New Orleans (11-5)* - We know plenty about their offense, from Drew Brees to Reggie Bush to Marques Colston. But this year, the defense may show up too. Gregg Williams coordinates this group, which includes playmakers like Will Smith, Charles Grant and new acquisition Darren Sharper. If they play even mediocre, they'll win 11+ games.

3. Carolina (8-8) - Last year, they looked like the class of the NFC. This year, it might be the opposite. The running game should still be potent, but Jake Delhomme isn't getting better. The defense really needs work, especially stopping the run. That's not good news considering the division they are in and the incredibly tough schedule they will face.

4. Tampa Bay (6-10) - Jon Gruden and Monte Kiffin are gone and probably don't mind that one bit. Byron Leftwich is the QB and leads what will be an average offense. Meanwhile, the defense isn't special anymore. They released emotional leader Derrick Brooks and are now in a bit of a rebuilding mode. This will be a tough 2009 for Tampa Bay.


NFC WEST
1. Seattle (10-6) - Injuries really hurt the Seahawks last season, sending Mike Holmgren into retirement on a sour note. But new head man Jim Mora Jr. should see success in Seattle this season. Matt Hasselbeck and T.J. Houshmanzadeh should lead an improved offense while Mora's influence should help improve a defense with a good mix of young and old.

2. Arizona (9-7) - The losses of coordinators Todd Haley and Clancy Pendergrast will hurt. Not to mention the curse of the Super Bowl loser (don't make playoffs the next year). The offense will score plenty of points once again and may even include a better running game. The defense though will determine just how far this team can go this season.

3. San Francisco (7-9) - I'm a big believer in Mike Singletary and what he is doing in San Fran. While I think the team will improve, the talent just isn't there right now to make a real run at the playoffs. Shaun Hill will have the benefit of a steady run game with Frank Gore while Patrick Willis leads a young but somewhat talented defensive unit.

4. St. Louis (5-11) - This is definitely going to be a project for Steve Spagnoulo. The defense will probably be improved under him but besides the defensive end positions, it's a young group. The offense has stars in Marc Bulger and Steven Jackson but not much else. They open the season with 3 of 4 on the road, which isn't much fun at all.


AFC Wild Card Playoffs
New England over Cincinnati
Indianapolis over Jacksonville


AFC Divisional Playoffs
Pittsburgh over New England
San Diego over Indianapolis


AFC Championship
San Diego over Pittsburgh



NFC Wild Card Playoffs
Minnesota over NY Giants
New Orleans over Seattle


NFC Divisional Playoffs
Atlanta over Minnesota
Philadelphia over New Orleans


NFC Championship
Philadelphia over Atlanta

Philadelphia over San Diego

MVP: Donovan McNabb

POSTSEASON AWARDS
Offensive Rookie: Mark Sanchez, NYJ
Defensive Rookie: Aaron Curry, SEA
Comeback Player: Carson Palmer, CIN
Coach: Jim Mora Jr., SEA
Offensive Player: Adrian Peterson, MIN
Defensive Player: DeMarcus Ware, DAL
NFL MVP: Philip Rivers, SD


That's it and that's all. My picks for week one are coming soon.

2009 College Football - Week 1 Recap

The long opening weekend is over and in just 2 days, Week 2 begins. But before it does, time to take a quick look back at the fun that was Week 1, from what I learned, the overrated/underrated teams, the dumbest thing said by a TV announcer, and 3 questions for next week.

The BIG 10 things I learned this week

1. ACC = Awful Collegiate Conference - Before the Miami-FSU instant classic, this was a truly awful weekend for the ACC. VT and NCST lost in front of national TV audiences. Maryland lost big to California while Wake couldn't beat Baylor at home. But the worst part of it all was Virginia, losing to William and Mary (who?) and Duke falling to Richmond (what?). That's not a good sign for things to come in the conference.

2. Don't downplay the triple-option -Mad props to Navy for the scare they put into OSU. The triple-option attack is already tough enough to defend but when they have the ability to throw it deep like they do, it makes it downright difficult. OSU did just enough to win but I already feel bad for the rest of Navy's opponents, because they will have their hands full.

3. Freshman success - Who said being a freshman QB was tough? Clemson's Kyle Parker was solid in his debut, going 9/20 for 159 yds and 2 TD. More importantly, no INTs. Michigan had to be happy with Tate Forcier, who finished 13/20 for 179 yds and 3 TD. He also didn't turn the ball over. And can't forget about USC's Matt Barkley, who went 15/19 for 233 yds and a TD. Granted, this is just a one-game sampling. We'll see how all 3 frosh do when they face tougher competition in Week 2. Clemson gets Georgia Tech, Michigan gets Notre Dame and USC gets Ohio State.

4. Beware the tough road (or neutral) game - I said in my preview post about how I wish more teams would be like Oregon and face good non-BCS teams on their fields. Well, thanks to Boise State's win, I doubt that will happen anymore. Same goes for neutral field matchups like BYU-Oklahoma. Yes, Bradford went down to injury but at the half, it's not like Oklahoma was up 30. No, it was just 10-7. Maybe these kind of games are best suited in Week 2 or 3, when play isn't so sloppy. Speaking of that...

5. Sloppy Sloppy Sloppy - There was some awfully sloppy play in Week 1. The entire Boise State-Oregon was tough to watch. South Carolina and NC State struggled to maintain any flow on offense. USC and Tennessee had zero points after the 1st quarter before scoring 28 in the 2nd quarter and finishing with 600+ yds of offense. BYU and Oklahoma also weren't moving the ball with ease and many expected. Same goes for Georgia and OK State. It was Week 1 though so let's hope this sloppy play subsides.

6. Lightning can strike twice - It wasn't a good Saturday to be a Northern Iowa Panther fan. After sticking with Iowa for 4 quarters and putting themselves in great FG position. So with 7 seconds left, the Panthers line up for the game-winning FG, and wouldn't you know, it's blocked. But in a strange twist, the Panthers got another shot after recovering the football. So with one second left, a chance at redemption. But yet again, they were denied by the Hawkeyes. I've never seen that before and probably won't see it again for a long time, if ever.

7. The Heisman race is on - Colt McCoy was phenomenal in his 2009 debut, throwing for 317 yds and 2 TD. Tim Tebow didn't play too long but still managed 188 yds passing and a TD. Johnathan Dwyer scored 2 TD but rushed for only 95 yds. Meanwhile, Jahvid Best had 10 carries for 137 yds and 2 TD. Some people to keep your eyes on include Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen (15/18, 315 yds, 4 TD) and Cincy's Tony Pike (27/34, 362 yds, 3 TD) who both had great starts to their season.

8. Cincy = Class of the Big East - Some people were dubbing the Cincinnati-Rutgers matchup as the Big east championship in Week 1. If that's the case, then Cincy is going to roll through the other 7 teams. The Bearcats cruised to a 47-15 victory, including scoring 38 unanswered points. Tony Pike is the real deal and so is his favorite target Mardy Gilyard. the Bearcats still have to travel to USF and Pitt but after that dominating performance, it's hard to see them not winning the Big East and playing in a BCS game once again.

9. Not your 2008 Huskies - If you stayed up late and saw the LSU-Washington game, you probably noticed the great play of Washington, sticking with LSU for more than 3 quarters. Expect that play all season from this team. New head coach Steve Sarkisian seems to have energized this group, getting them to believe they can win again (they went 0-12 in 2008). Plus, if junior QB Jake Locker can stay healthy, he single-handedly will keep them in just about any game. They won't win the Pac-10 but they will eb able to put some scares into teams like Oregon State, Cal and yes, even USC.

10. Sportsmanship is still an issue - It's ironic that on a weekend that was supposed to emphasize sportsmanship with pregame handshakes that we had the most egregious act seen on a field in a long time. Oregon senior RB LeGarrette Blount punching Boise State lineman Byron Hout after the game. Blount's college career is now over and more importantly, sportsmanship was forgotten once again. It's not going to be easy to put sportsmanship to the forefront in college football when there is so much on the line each week but I'm glad they tried to make an effort. It's just too bad it didn't work.

11. Mark May is turning into Trev Alberts - I initially liked the pairing of Mark May and Lou Holtz. Unlike when it was May-Alberts, the arguments between the two men made me chuckle. But now as I watch May-Holtz, I find myself wanting to laugh with/at Lou and punch Mark. Here's why. Mark makes his point and then Lou goes. Lou makes his "point" and then, Mark argues with Lou about that point or argues that his original point is more important (even though Lou never said one was more important). In other words, he's just trying to pick a verbal fight. We get it Mark. You like to argue and like to be right. So do I. But don't pick a verbal fight with Lou Holtz. He's old and a little crazy in the head. It's not a fair fight so just stop it already.

OVER/UNDER
- I have no hesitation in calling Iowa my OVERRATED team. They come into the year ranked #22 and supposedly a dark horse contender for the Big Ten. But then, they need 2 blocked FGs to prevent falling to Northern Iowa. Yikes. I know it was Week 1 but it's also Northern Iowa. The Hawkeyes should've been able to handle them easily, if they were that good.
- I also have no hesitation is calling Cincinnati the UNDERRATED team of the week. They weren't even ranked in the AP Poll in the preseason. That's a shame too for a team that returned such dynamic players on offense. Yes, the defense only returned 1 starter but as seen by their performance against Rutgers, I'd say they learned a lot in the offseason. Look out for the Bearcats.

HE/SHE SAID WHAT?

“On their front four they have 1 senior, 3 sophomores and two freshman.”- Lou Holtz

For a complete list of some of the best stuff said this weekend, check out this website.

3 QUESTIONS

1. Will having to prepare for the triple-option offense hurt Ohio State in their preparation for USC?

2. How much will Sam Bradford and Jermaine Gresham's injuries affect Oklahoma this season?

3. Who will be the celebrity picker on College Gameday in Columbus? (My guesses: Rick Nash, Eddie George, or Greg Oden)

Week 2 preview post coming Thursday around noon.

2009 College Football - Week 1

The wait is over college football fans. The 2009 season is here. And it's not here with a whimper. In fact, a couple good games on the slate tonight to kick it off. But there are more than just games today. There are a slew of good games spread over the opening weekend, which is great news for everyone.

If you're new to my college football weekly preview posts, it's a pretty simple format. I will preview the 15 best games of the week. I will single out a game of the week, because that's the fad. I will also preview OU (my alma mater) and OSU (my hometown team) games, if they aren't already in the top 15. And finally, I will continue with my upset pick of the week, called the APPY, which is short for Appalachian State, who shocked the college football world with their upset of Michigan in 2007. Many times, I will choose an APPY that seems ridiculous. But that's the point. Oh, and finally, I use AP rankings, not coaches or BCS rankings. That's all there is to it. Here we go.

TOP 15 GAMES

GAME OF THE WEEK:
1. #5 Alabama vs. #7 Virginia Tech (in Atlanta) - Can't ask for much more in Week One than a Top-10 matchup of two teams hoping to make national title runs. I don't think either will but the one who wins will feel that way. Bama comes in with a new QB and a young O-Line. VT comes in with a young defense but a solid core on offense, including talented QB Tyrod Taylor. Last year, VT fell in their first game to East Carolina but this year, I'll pick VIRGINIA TECH to open the season with a convincing win.

BEST OF THE REST
2. #16 Oregon @ #14 Boise State (THURS) - I'm a big fan of BCS schools of Oregon's caliber taking a chance and playing a school of Boise State's caliber on the road. Unfortunately, I don't think this is going to end up well of Oregon. Last year, BSU beat Oregon in Eugene. This time, it's on the blue field, where the Broncos seem to never lose. I'll take BOISE STATE in a close one.

3. #20 BYU vs. #3 Oklahoma (in Arlington) - Oklahoma has a lot to prove this year, after their lack of offensive output in the BCS national championship. They'll get their chance against a BYU team that gives up a lot of points. But they know how to score too, and with senior QB Max Hall leading the way, look for this game to have plenty of points and fairly close through 3 quarters. But OKLAHOMA will survive a semi-scare in week 1.

4. #13 Georgia @ #9 Oklahoma State - This is just the first of many tough games for the Dawgs. It's also the first start for UGA QB Joe Cox, who will be charged with scoring a ton of points to match a potent OKST offense. The Cowboys are led by QB Zach Robinson and WR Dez Bryant and if last year was any indication, they will be quite the tandem this season. Both teams will have fine seasons but OKLAHOMA STATE is the one who starts 1-0.

5. Cincinnati @ Rutgers (MON) - Yes, it may be a battle of unranked teams but this game will be big in the Big East. Cincinnati is the preseason favorite, thanks to its recent success and returners such as QB Tony Pike and WR Mardy Gilyard. But Rutgers only lost to Cincy 13-10 last year in the Queen City and will be playing their first game in their newly renovated stadium. It should be an exciting Labor Day game in Piscataway but I'm going with CINCINNATI in a close one.

6. Nevada vs. #23 Notre Dame - The casual college football fan may see this as an easy win for the Irish. But Nevada is no slouch. Their offense was ranked 5th last year, thanks to their Pistol offense led by WAC player of the year QB Colin Kaepernick. Their defense though was in a word, awful. That's why if the Irish can score like they did in their bowl game with Hawaii last year (49-21 win), they'll be just fine. NOTRE DAME wins but not without sweating through 3 quarters.

7. Miami (FL) @ #18 Florida State (MON) - Last year, the 'Noles struggled against the 'Canes in a 41-39 win, despite being the superior team. This year, expect the same. It's just the product of it being a rivalry game. FSU is the better team but Randy Shannon will have the 'Canes ready to go. Not sure this one will be another instant classic but I am fairly sure that FLORIDA STATE will come out victorious.

8. Missouri @ Illinois (at St. Louis) - Last year, this was a game between top 25 teams hoping to gain national respect in September. This year, it's just a battle of two teams, hoping this jump starts what will be a good season. Mizzou lost QB Chase Daniel. Illinois brings back QB Juice Williams. That will be the difference in the first game. ILLINOIS wins by a healthy margin.

9. Western Michigan @ Michigan - The Broncos aren't gonna be scared of the Wolverines at all. Last year, WMU beat Illinois in Champaign, in what was seen as an upset. The same could happen here, especially with all the talk about Michigan and coach Rich Rodriguez. Will they be a distraction come Saturday. Only time will tell. I'll pick MICHIGAN to avoid the upset but wouldn't be surprised to see them fall either.

10. Minnesota @ Syracuse - This actually may not be one of the best games but it is one of the most intriguing. The Gophers return 15 starters but are switching offenses, so could look a bit messy in the first game. Meanwhile, Syracuse is starting former Duke point guard Greg Paulus at QB. How well will he play in his first football game since high school? Who knows but I can't wait to see. I'll pick SYRACUSE to win, mainly cause I don't trust Minnesota.

11. #11 LSU @ Washington - This should be an easy win for LSU on paper but on the field, it may be different. The Tigers have all the talent to compete for an SEC title but they're still a young team. Meanwhile, the Huskies are coming off a winless 2008, much of that thanks to a thumb injury to QB Jake Locker, their lone playmaker. He's back and healthy and former USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian takes over as head coach. LSU will still win this game but it'd be a good sign for Washington if they hang with the Tigers for a half.

12. South Carolina @ NC State (THURS) - A battle of two teams hoping to really improve upon mediocre seasons. The Gamecocks did make a New Year's bowl game but in now ways, were happy with a 7-6 season. Stephen Garcia returns as starter and is expected to do big things. Meanwhile, NCST rallied to make a bowl game and could carry that momentum into 2009. This game is a virtual toss-up, which should mean it's a close game. My pick is SOUTH CAROLINA by 3 points or less.

13. Baylor @ Wake Forest - Don't look now but the Baylor Bears are on the rise. Art Briles made strides in his first year and should make more this season. QB Robert Griffin should improve upon his freshman campaign and the defense should improve as a unit as well. On the other hand, Wake returns 9 starters on what was an anemic offense in 2008, but that does include reliable QB Riley Skinner. Last year, Wake won 41-13 at Baylor. It won't be that lopsided this time but WAKE FOREST will still win the ballgame.

14. #8 Ole Miss @ Memphis (SUN) - The last thing Ole Miss can afford to do in the beginning of the season is struggle out the gate on the road, playing a team like Memphis. It's not easy opening on the road, which is why this game makes the list. But Memphis is not a good team by any means this season. OLE MISS should roll but if this game is within 21, the doubters will surface early.

15. Central Michigan @ Arizona - The Chippewas struggled mightily down the stretch last year, losing their last 3. This year, they get the chance to start the year with a bang. QB Dan LeFevour is one of the more dynamic players in the nation and with 10 players on defense, CMU is no cupcake. Arizona returns 13 starters from last year's 8-5 team. They must replace their QB and their starting WRs so there may be a learning curve for the offense. That's enough for me to use my APPY pick on CENTRAL MICHIGAN to beat the Wildcats in Tucson.

EXTRA GAMES
Navy @ #6 Ohio State - All week, I've read all these quotes from Jim Tressel and QB Terrelle Pryor commenting on how good Navy is. While they are being politically correct and sportsmanlike, they are also lying. The Naval Academy will be no competition for the Buckeyes. The only concern is if OSU will be looking ahead to USC and not stumble out of the gates, like they did against OU in September 2008. OHIO STATE 45, NAVY 7

UConn @ Ohio - The last time a Big East school traveled to Peden Stadium, it was the MAC school that won the game. Granted, that was thanks to two infamous INT returns from Dion Byrum, but hey, a win is a win. This OU team has the potential to win the MAC East and I know how much this would mean to the Bobcat program. But UConn will be ready for this one and their defense should be stout enough to slow down the Bobcat offense. UCONN 27, OHIO 14

There they are. I'll keep tabs of my picks and compile how good/bad I do all season. Feel free to leave your opinions of my picks in the comments section. Most times, I will respond. Better chance if I actually know who you are by leaving your name. Enjoy the football everyone!

2009 College Football Preview - Day 3

I've talked non-conference games, schedules, and even made conference-by-conference predictions. The only thing left to do is to reveal my Top 25 and BCS predictions. Again, this is my FINAL Top 25, not my preseason Top 25. So this doesn't mean I think the #6 team is the 6th best team. Instead, it just means where I think these teams will finish when the season is over.

MY FINAL TOP 25

1. Texas - I still think they had a better chance of beating Florida than Oklahoma last year and that they deserved to be in that game. Whatever. This is their year. The 'Horns should run the table. Only tough games are vs. Oklahoma and at OK State. Oh, and QB Colt McCoy pulls a Vince Young and crushes the Heisman curse.

2. Florida - They return a Heisman Trophy winner. They return 11 starters on defense. They've won 2 titles in 3 years. So why not pick them to win? Because like in 2007, the pressure to repeat is tough. The Gators should run the table in the regular season. But they'll fall to the 'Horns in Pasadena.

3. Ohio State - If the Buckeyes get by USC, which I predict they will, I see them also running the table. This team lost a ton of talent but in 2002 when they won it all, the same happened. Terrelle Pryor will be unleashed and expect him to have the kind of impact on OSU that Michael Vick did for VT in 1999.

4. Oklahoma - No doubt, they are a great team. But only one team can win the Big 12. Last year Texas beat them. I see the same again. The schedule isn't overly easy but they should escape with just one loss. Sam Bradford will have a good season but not as good as last year. Call it a Heisman hangover.

5. USC - This team is almost in here by default. The Pac-10 is still weak. So while USC returns just 3 starters on defense, starting a frosh QB in Matt Barkley, and replacing both coordinators, they'll win the conference. Trips to OSU, Cal, ND, and Oregon won't be an easy task at all but 10-2 or 11-1 should be attainable.

6. Georgia Tech - Some may think this too high for them but I'm confident in this team. The triple-option attack is hard to prepare for, especially when only 5 or so teams run it. Thing is, GT runs it better than anyone else. I say 2 losses for them, an ACC title, and a bowl game victory. That happens, they finish right here.

7. Penn State - Their non-conference schedule is a joke. And besides OSU, the Big Ten is too. With only 8 starters returning, I don't see PSU beating OSU, even in Happy Valley. They may have trouble at Illinois and MSU but I predict wins. An 11-1 regular season followed by a bowl loss sounds right.

8. Ole Miss - This team could easily finish the regular season undefeated, thanks to an incredibly weak schedule. They miss Florida, a la Alabama in 2008. Plus, they get Bama at home. QB Jevan Snead showed signs of stardom last season. They won't beat Florida but at 12-1, they'll make a BCS bowl.

9. Boise State - Put this team in a real conference please! Yet again, the schedule is weak, but that's cause the WAC is weak. Once they beat Oregon in Week One (tomorrow), they'll finish 12-0 and find themselves in another BCS game. Look out for soph QB Kellen Moore. Could be a Heisman winner in 2010 or 2011.

10. Oklahoma State - Will be a better team than their record will indicate at the end of the year. Losses to Texas at home and at Oklahoma are in the cards but not without giving both teams a fight. QB Zach Robinson and WR Dez Bryant are a great show. It's the defense that will keep this team from a Big 12 title.

11. Alabama - Possibly, the most overrated team. They do return 9 starters from the 3rd best defense last year. But that defense will be on the field a lot this season, thanks to what will be an inept offense. New QB behind an inexperience line doesn't equal success. Will have at least 2 losses before the bowl game.

12. Virginia Tech - They struggled last year with a two-QB system and 3 frosh WRs. This year, the offense should be much improved. QB Tyrod Taylor will struggle through some games so VT will fall a few times. But the Bud Foster-coached defense will keep this team in the top 15 all season.

13. Cincinnati - The Bearcats are only this high because the Big East isn't that strong. Their offense should be even more dynamic than last year. But the defense returns just one starter. Yeah, just one. Look for losses at Oregon State, USF, and at home vs. Illinois. But they'll cruise to the conference title again.

14. California - In Jahvid Best they trust. the junior RB is no doubt one of the best, if not the best. But Cal has it rough in the Pac-10. Facing Oregon and USC back-to-back isn't easy. Not to mention they always seem prone to a bad loss, like last year's 42-27 at Arizona. They'll be good, just not great.

15. Utah - They didn't lose one game last season but this season, they've already lost both coordinators and NCAA Football 10 cover boy QB Brian Johnson. The schedule will prevent them from finishing unblemished. Road games at Oregon, TCU and BYU will mean one or two losses, which also means no BCS berth.

16. Kansas - I'm a big fan of QB Todd Reesing. with all 3 starting wideouts back, the offense will keep the Jayhawks in every game. But their defense still isn't strong enough to beat the likes of Oklahoma, Texas and maybe even Texas Tech in Lubbock. But getting Nebraska in Lawrence wins them the Big 12 North.

17. Florida State - If not for such a brutal schedule, this team would be higher. But I don't see this team surviving their schedule without falling at least 4 times. The offense should be much improved after a down couple years. But the defense returns just 5 starters, which worries me with their schedule.

18. Oregon State - Their home matchup against Cincinnati will be their first test before their tough conference schedule. Road games at USC, Oregon, Cal, and ASU means the Beavers will have to have their A-game every week. But that won't happen, even with playmaking RB Jacquizz Rodgers.

19. Nebraska - Bo Pelini has this team on the right track. But graduation was not kind to the Huskers. The new QB threw just 2 passes last season and they have all-new starters at every offensive skill position. The schedule includes trips to VT and Kansas and a home date with Oklahoma. Not easy, but not crazy hard.

20. Clemson - This may be wishful thinking. Clemson returns 15 starters and that doesn't include all-ACC player C.J. Spiller. But the team needs to improve on offense incredibly to contend. Dabo Swinney has the fan base excited. Having TCU and FSU at home is nice but on the road at GT and South Carolina is not.

21. Michigan State - No Javon Ringer to carry the team anymore. No, this year, it'll be about the defense in East Lansing. With the Big Ten weak, the Spartans should have a good record. They miss OSU and they get PSU and Iowa at home. They could be upset though by ND, Illinois, and even Central Michigan.

22. Oregon - 10 starters return for the Ducks but head coach Mike Bellotti does not. New head man Chip Kelly enters his first head coaching gig with a tough September slate. First, a trip to Boise St and then at home against Purdue, Utah and Cal. After that though, it's favorable with USC, ASU and ORST all in Eugene.

23. LSU - It was a bad year for the Tigers last year, going 3-5 in SEC play. It shouldn't be that bad this season but road games at UGA, Bama and Ole Miss should be 3 losses. Add a home date against Florida and there's loss #4. If the offense and pass defense improves, the Tigers should avoid loss #5.

24. Georgia - The big 3 on offense (Stafford, Moreno and Massaqoui) are gone. And so are some big players on defense. That doesn't bode well for a team with probably the hardest schedule in America. Start the year at OKST, finish at GT and Florida in between. Their success will depend on QB Joe Cox.

25. TCU - They may have the least feared nickname in the college game (Horned Frogs) but teams should still fear them. They had the best defense in the NCAA last year but only return 4 starters. But expect another solid season from TCU. They travel to Clemson and BYU but do get Utah in Fort Worth.

BCS BOWLS PREDICTIONS

January 1: USC vs. Ohio State - In the rematch of these two conference champs from September, expect a closer game, especially considering the game is in USC's backyard. USC frosh QB Matt Barkley should be much improved from his first performance in the Shoe. But look for the Buckeyes to redeem themselves after an array of big-time bowl losses with a game-winning FG at the horn. OSU 31, USC 28


January 1: Ole Miss vs. Boise State - Last year, it was an SEC team with nothing to gain in Alabama. This is different though, because Ole Miss is not regarded as one of the highly regarded programs. Boise State will be competitive but look for Ole Miss to not be too wrapped about their lost title game bid but instead, show up ready for this game and win. Ole Miss 42, Boise State 31


January 4: Oklahoma vs. Penn State - Pitting two teams with just one loss, this one should be a gem. Sam Bradford plays great in his final game as a Sooner before turning pro. Meanwhile, Daryll Clark performs admirably to make up for his 2009 Rose Bowl performance. The difference in the game ends up being Oklahoma's tougher schedule, preparing them for the Nittany Lions. Oklahoma 45, Penn State 27

January 5: Cincinnati vs. Georgia Tech - In what will be billed as a game between programs on the rise, this one will be ugly. Cincinnati will come in ready to play like they were last year against VT. But Georgia Tech will be coming off an impressive ACC title game victory over FSU and riding that wave to a blowout of a Cincy team still trying to gain respect nationally. Georgia Tech 34, Cincinnati 10


January 7: Texas vs. Florida - After 5-6 weeks of excruciating coverage, the BCS title game will provide us with plenty of offense. Tim Tebow will play an amazing game, proving he is one of the best college players of all-time. But this time under the lights, as it was 4 years before, it will be a Longhorn who steals the spotlight. Heisman Trophy winner Colt McCoy drives the Horns to the endzone for the game-winning TD and the national championship. Instant Classic anyone? Texas 41, Florida 38

NEXT: Week 1 Preview