Cram Session - Week 3

On paper, this appears to be the most exciting weekend in college football so far. Plenty of good rivalry games and games featuring ranked teams playing one another. The biggest game of the weekend is #1 Oklahoma traveling to #5 Florida State. The Seminoles are looking to prove that they really deserve a Top 5 ranking. A win against Oklahoma would quiet the doubters that don't believe Florida State is really back.

Games That Matter to Me

#15 Michigan State (2-0) at Notre Dame (0-2)

As a fan I have seen my fair share of heartbreaking losses, but last Saturday might have been the worse. Notre Dame dominated Michigan on both sides of the ball for three quarters. Then the fourth quarter came, and the Irish players remembered that they are averse to success. They choked away the game, allowed Michigan QB Denard Robinson to successfully play 500 against them, and lost in the final seconds. Because of that, the Irish now stand at 0-2 and the season is already lost. They have to win this weekend at home against #15 Michigan State to avoid an 0-3 start. Last season, the Irish suffered an almost as heartbreaking defeat at Michigan State. The question is, can Brian Kelly keep the players heads up. Notre Dame has outplayed their two opponents but have killed themselves with turnovers. Ten turnovers in two games, including five in the red zone is not a formula for success. QB Tommy Rees appeared to be much more comfortable in the offense than Dayne Crist and is obviously the man that should lead the Irish. WR Michael Floyd continues to dominate and make opposing defenders look silly. The defense will have to slow down the Spartans passing game, led by Kirk Cousins. The Spartans have played no one of consequence, so its hard to get a true read on them. I think last season was a fluke for them, and even if they beat the Irish, I won't be convinced they are as good as their ranking would indicate. Right now, I have zero faith in the Irish winning a football game. I do believe they will find some nauseating, heartbreaking way to lose it though.

Prediction: Michigan State 24, Notre Dame 21

Washington (2-0) at #11 Nebraska (2-0)

The players and coaches can downplay it all they want but this is clearly a revenge game for the Huskers. They came out flat in the Holiday Bowl last December and were embarrassed by the Huskies, now they get a shot at revenge at home. It was just one year ago that Nebraska went to Washington and lambasted the Huskies. Washington still hasn't proven they can generate any offense on the Huskers defense. However, the Blackshirts looked very weak in the win last week against Fresno State. Jake Locker is gone so new quarterback Keith Price will see if he can do what Locker couldn't, have success against the Huskers defense. Playing Nebraska will be a step up for the sophomore, who so far has only faced Hawaii and Eastern Washington. For Nebraska, it would be nice to see the passing game get some rhythm so they aren't so reliant on the run. Through two games their leading receiver is Jamal Turner, who has just four catches. QB Taylor Martinez is completing just 48% of his passes and has 1 TD and 2 INTs. The Huskers won't be caught sleep walking their way through this one. I expect them to get their revenge, and I hope the defense steps up their game.

Prediction: Nebraska 41, Washington 27

Top 10 Thursday, September 15

#3 LSU (2-0, 0-0) at #25 Mississippi State (1-1, 0-1)

Very good Thursday night game that lost a bit of its luster with the Bulldogs loss at Auburn on Saturday. That being said, they still will be at home and the atmosphere for Thursday night games is always special. The best offensive player on the Bulldogs is senior RB Vick Ballard. He is averaging an astounding 9 yards a carry through two games. The LSU defense is one of the best in the country and Ballard is the key. If they slow Ballard, the Tigers will win, and probably pretty easily. However, this isn't an Oregon team finding out that the SEC style of play is nothing like their conference. Ballard has been through the battles in the SEC and I think he can be successful tonight. Jarrett Lee has done his job replacing Jordan Jefferson, but playing at home and neutral sites is different than going to Starkville. The timing is right, the Bulldogs have lost 11 straight to LSU, that ends tonight.

Prediction: Mississippi State 28, LSU 25

Friday, September 16

#4 Boise State (1-0) at Toledo (1-1)

This game became much more interesting after the scare Toledo put into Ohio State last weekend. Can the Rockets put together back to back games like that and give the Broncos a challenge? Kellen Moore is far better than the Buckeyes quarterback options and will present problems for Toledo that Ohio State couldn't. I think Toledo can keep this game close but once again will come up agonizingly short.

Prediction: Boise State 35, Toledo 27

Saturday, September 17

#1 Oklahoma (1-0) at #5 Florida State (2-0)

Both teams will be looking to make a statement. Choklahoma wants to avoid choking in a big spot and validate their preseason number one ranking. For Florida State, beating two cupcakes to start the season hasn't proven anything about where they stand. Last season, the Seminoles went to Oklahoma and were destroyed. I really don't think enough has changed in one season that Florida State is suddenly better than the Sooners. The Sooners have had two weeks to prepare for this game. I expect QB Landry Jones, RB Dominique Whaley, and WR Ryan Broyles will all do damage and prove that the Seminoles may be better, but aren't back.

Prediction: Oklahoma 33, Florida State 24

North Texas (0-2) at #2 Alabama (2-0)

Alabama will kill North Texas.

Prediction: Alabama 45, North Texas 10

#6 Stanford (2-0, 0-0) at Arizona (1-1, 0-0)

Stanford and Andrew Luck face their first challenge of the year as they open their conference season at Arizona. The Wildcats were run over by Oklahoma State last week so it remains to be seen how much of a challenge they really are for the Cardinal. Nick Foles has been very good through two games, throwing 6 TDs and no INTs. If he can keep that up against a Stanford defense college football fans everywhere would take notice. The Cardinal are allowing 8 points a game thus far.

Prediction: Stanford 40, Arizona 21

#7 Wisconsin (2-0) at Northern Illinois (1-1)

Wisconsin continues their march to their Big Ten opener against Nebraska. They get to destroy Northern Illinois this week.

Prediction: Wisconsin 47, Northern Illinois 17


#8 Oklahoma State (2-0) at Tulsa (1-1)

The Sooners already got their shots in at Tulsa, so now it is the Cowboys turn. Oklahoma State was at least kind enough to go to Tulsa to do the beating. The only way the Hurricanes keep this close is if the Cowboys are napping, and thinking about playing at Texas A&M next weekend. I doubt that will happen though. Expect more offensive domination from QB Brandon Weeden, and WR Justin Blackmon.

Prediction: Oklahoma State 34, Tulsa 14

Idaho (1-1) at #9 Texas A&M (1-0)

The Aggies are being talked about more for which conference they will end up in then what they might do on the field this season. Idaho coming to College Station won't change that, but the focus will be back on the field next weekend for the visit from the Cowboys.

Prediction: Texas A&M 38, Idaho 10

Navy (2-0) at #10 South Carolina (2-0)

This game should be very good. Navy has proven that they aren't intimidated when they have to go on the road against conference powers. The passing game will take a back seat as both teams love to run the ball. The Gamecocks are led by Marcus Lattimore, who has 4 TDs and 288 yards rushing through the first two games. Navy leads the NCAA with 801 yards rushing. They have their typical dual threat at QB in Kriss Proctor. Proctor has thrown just 14 passes in the first two weeks, but has run for 199 yards. I expect this game to go right down to the wire, especially with Stephen Garcia likely to make some mistakes at quarterback. I am not bold enough to pick the upset, but it wouldn't shock me.

Prediction: South Carolina 28, Navy 24

Last Week: 8-0
Overall: 16-2

The Hail Mary - Week 1

The NFL season got off to a blistering start last night. The Packers and Saints combined for 76 points and the game wasn't decided until the final play. Hopefully, that carries over to the rest of the games this weekend. There are some very intriguing ones, including the renewal of the Baltimore Ravens/Pittsburgh Steelers rivalry, the Cowboys taking on the Jets, and the Giants traveling to Washington to take on the Redskins for the 10th anniversary of 9/11. For my new readers, I pick the games against the spread and straight up.

Week 1 - Sunday, September 11

Atlanta at Chicago, Atlanta favored by 3

I expect both of these teams to regress from their high statures last season. That being said, I don't expect to see the Falcons make the precipitous fall that the Bears will. I expect Jay Cutler to be sacked just as bad or worse than he was last year, and I didn't think the Bears were all that good last season to begin with. The Falcons were a good team last season that I believe overachieved a bit. They have a high powered offense but the defense is weak and not championship caliber. The Falcons are better than the Bears and will show it at Soldier Field.

Prediction: Atlanta 24, Chicago 16

Cincinnati at Cleveland, Cleveland favored by 6 1/2

The winner of the most uninteresting game of the weekend goes to Cleveland/Cincinnati. The Browns could get off to a fast start due to an easy schedule while the Bungles could reach even lower depths than they have in the past, which is really saying something. This will be our first look at Andy Dalton, the pro, and also a look at what A.J. Green is capable of against NFL competition. Colt McCoy looked strong in the preseason for the Browns, and if he can carry that over to the regular season, people in Cleveland might have a reason not to be depressed anymore. At least until they remember they live in Cleveland.

Prediction: Cleveland 27, Cincinnati 13

Buffalo at Kansas City, Kansas City favored by 6

The Chiefs are another team I expect to see fall flat on their faces this season. Matt Cassel is already hurt, they lost one of their top receiving targets, TE Tony Moeaki for the season, and the schedule should be much harder this season. That being said, I am not down on them to the point that I would pick them to lose at home to the sad sack Bills.

Prediction: Kansas City 19, Buffalo 16

Philadelphia at St. Louis, Philadelphia favored by 5

The anticipated debut of the Dream Team. Some people have had the audacity to pick St. Louis in this game, but they are just haters. I expect a 2007 New England Patriots type debut for the 2011 Eagles. I don't think the Rams are bad or anything but I think the Eagles, my Super Bowl pick, will be very good.

Prediction: Philadelphia 28, St. Louis 14

Detroit at Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay favored by 2

Tampa Bay is looking for revenge after a heartbreaking home loss last season to the Lions that kept them out of the playoffs. Detroit is the sexy pick this season to be the surprise team that makes the playoffs. I certainly think they will be improved, but think 2012 is more likely to be the year they make the playoff leap. I am looking forward to watching the brick wall that will be Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley. This game will come right down to the end, until the Bucs hit a game winning field goal in the final seconds.

Prediction: Tampa Bay 24, Detroit 23

Tennessee at Jacksonville, Jacksonville favored by 3

Chris Johnson is the only thing worth watching in this game. I guess the other interesting thing is to see how awful Luke McCown is, in replacing David Gerrard. With Peyton Manning being out for most, if not all of the season, these putrid teams actually have hope in the stinky AFC South.

Prediction: Tennessee 24, Jacksonville 17

Pittsburgh at Baltimore, Baltimore favored by 2 1/2

This is a good rivalry, but it has been a little one sided as of late. The Steelers always beat the Ravens in the playoffs and when it matters most. I'm not very high on the Ravens this year. I think the defense is aging and not what it used to be, and I have never been sold on Joe Unibrow Flacco. The Steelers bring back most of their Super Bowl team from last season and will have QB Ben Roethlisberger right from the start. It will be a close game as it always is, with a familiar result, the Steelers winning.

Prediction: Pittsburgh 20, Baltimore 14

Indianapolis at Houston, Houston favored by 8 1/2

Colts fans had their fears realized yesterday when it was announced that Peyton Manning had another neck surgery, and will miss at the least 2 months, and most likely the season. I didn't have high hopes for the Colts this year even with Manning, but I still felt they could win this division. Kerry Collins takes the reigns now, and I don't think its impossible to imagine the Colts still winning the division, even with him under center. People love the Texans for some odd reason. They are becoming what the Cardinals were for years before they finally broke through. So maybe this is the year for the Texans. At the very least, they will start off 1-0.

Prediction: Houston 30, Indianapolis 24

Carolina at Arizona, Arizona favored by 7

The quarterbacks take center stage, as Cam Newton makes his NFL debut, and Kevin Kolb makes his Cardinals debut. The Cardinals will be the least worst team in the NFC West and that should be enough to earn them the division. I don't think Kolb is worth the money he received, but he is a huge upgrade over what Arizona had last season. Newton will have to take his lumps this year.

Prediction: Arizona 31, Carolina 17

Minnesota at San Diego, San Diego favored by 8 1/2

Vegas always loves the Chargers at home, as does the general public. No one seems to be giving the Vikings a chance in this game. I don't think Donovan McNabb is as terrible as he looked in Washington, and the Vikings still have the best running back in the game, Adrian Peterson. I think this could turn into a bit of a shootout, and will be closer than the experts think.

Prediction: San Diego 34, Minnesota 27

Seattle at San Francisco, San Francisco favored by 5 1/2

The Jim Harbaugh era takes on the Tavaris Jackson era. I expect the Harbaugh era to last much longer. Last season the Niners opened at Seattle and were embarrassed, so its time for some payback. I don't expect much from San Francisco this year. They went back to Alex Smith, who receives his 9,000th chance. It was painful watching the Green Bay Packers America's Game and seeing how badly Aaron Rodgers wanted to be a 49er. Hell, the Niners even had Mike McCarthy as their offensive coordinator at the time. The Niners revamped most of their defense, which had actually been a decent unit. The Seahawks are worse though, anytime you willingly turn to Jackson as your starting quarterback you probably need your head examined.

Prediction: San Francisco 17, Seattle 14

New York Giants at Washington, New York Giants favored by 3

Let the fun with Rex Grossman begin! The question is, how long will he last until the fans yearn for John Beck? Fans yearning for John Beck? That is how sad the quarterback situation has gotten in Washington. The Giants have made the Redskins their bitch for the last five years. But if they ever was a time for the Skins to finally beat them, it would be Sunday's game. The Giants have been decimated by injuries on their defense. They have lost countless cornerbacks, and now it appears Justin Tuck might miss this game. Still, I just can't pick the Skins to beat the Giants until they actually do it. I think Eli will have his typical game where he makes some mistakes but also has some wow plays. Brandon Jacobs has always tore apart the Skins, so I expect him and Bradshaw to have good games. I expect Washington to do their usual role of keeping the game close but then making some costly turnover when it counts.

Prediction: New York Giants 24, Washington 22

Dallas at New York Jets, New York Jets favored by 4 1/2

I think the Cowboys will have a four win swing this season and be back in the playoffs. They still have a ton of talent on offense, the question is how their defense responds to Rob Ryan. The Jets don't have a high powered offense, so if they are able to dictate the game, it could be a sign of another long season in Dallas. The atmosphere should be electric with the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in New York. This will be a good game, but I don't expect a high scoring affair. It will be interesting to see how Plaxico Burress does in his first real game back.

Prediction: New York Jets 17, Dallas 14

Monday, September 12

New England at Miami, New England favored by 7

New England has mostly dominated the Dolphins in Miami for the last few years, after struggling in Miami for most of the early 2000s. No one seems sure what to expect out of the Dolphins. They have a talented defense, but the offense, and specifically QB Chad Henne are big question marks. Chad Ochocinco makes his Patriots debut, as does Albert Haynesworth. If Haynesworth ends up having a big year in New England, Skins fans hate will grow even more for him. Another interesting thing to watch is if Reggie Bush really does become the every down back as has been hinted. I think the Dolphins keep this one interesting but I think there is little doubt the Patriots win.

Prediction: New England 27, Miami 21

Oakland at Denver, Denver favored by 3

I guess Vegas forgot about what the Raiders did to Denver at Denver last season. The Raiders not only owned the Broncos but the entire NFC West last year. I'm not sure why ESPN continually has dud matchups for the second games of their doubleheaders to open the season. I guess it isn't really their fault that most of the teams on the west coast suck. Denver won't cover, in fact they will lose, but it won't be embarrassing like last season.

Prediction: Oakland 18, Denver 15

Cram Session - Week 2

Before I get into this weekend's top 10 games, I wanted to share my thoughts for tonight's NFL opener between the last two Super Bowl champions, the New Orleans Saints and the Green Bay Packers.

Thursday, September 8

New Orleans at Green Bay, Green Bay favored by 4

The NFL is back! College is nice and all but give me the best in the world playing the best any day over some good college team playing Louisiana Poop. As has become custom, the defending champions open the season at home. Last year, that was the New Orleans Saints. This season, they get to be the other team in the equation. Both of these teams have high expectations and being picked by many to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. They each have high powered offenses, and defenses that mostly have a bend but don't break mentality. Despite that, I don't think tonight's game will be as high scoring as some might expect. If you look into recent history, teams seem to come out very sluggish in the opener. The Saints were only able to put up 14 points in last season's opener. It is a big state, and although these are professionals, they are probably a little too amped up for their own good. It will still be an entertaining game. I expect that each defense will cause a turnover or two and you know that Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers can only be slowed down so much. The media have tried playing up how the Saints got together during the lockout but the Packers didn't. It's a lazy story that really means nothing, as both have played four preseason games now, and any effect them getting together on their own or not has been negated by this point. I am going to go with history. History says that when the defending champion opens on a Thursday night, they don't lose. The Packers will win a tight one, but not too tight, as they will still cover.

Prediction: Green Bay 24, New Orleans 17

Ok, back to college football. Last weekend was pretty underwhelming, as the two big games featuring Top 10 teams, LSU/Oregon, and then Boise State/Georgia each failed to live up to the hype. Predictably, Notre Dame crapped the bed, and Nebraska had an easy time with Chattanooga. The marquee game in the Top 10 this week is #3 Alabama traveling to Happy Valley to take on #23 Penn State. Don't be fooled though. This game is marquee in name only, as I expect Bama to take the Nittany Lions to the woodshed.

Games That Matter to Me

Notre Dame (0-1) at Michigan (1-0)

I was at a wedding last Saturday and missed most of Notre Dame's loss to South Florida. That was probably for the best as the ten minutes I got to watch were infuriating enough. Despite piling up yardage and dominating, the Irish dropped tons of balls, turned the ball over in the red zone on multiple occasions and choked away a game they should have fun away with. After one week, QB Dayne Crist has already lost his starting job, and the guy who probably should have been starting i the first place, Tommy Rees is back in. Now, the Irish are starting 0-2 in the face as they travel to Michigan for the first night game at Michigan Stadium. It should be an electric atmosphere and the games between these two rivals are always close. Last year, Wolverines QB Denard Robinson shredded the Irish and propelled Michigan to a comeback win. Robinson is learning a new offense and likely won't be running wild like he did last season. However, he is a threat still and can also be effective passing. Another player to watch is their RB Fitzgerald Touissant who had two TDs last weekend against Western Michigan. This is a must win game for Notre Dame but they have had a lot of trouble winning at Michigan in recent years. I expect another close, hard fought loss to the Wolverines.

Prediction: Michigan 27, Notre Dame 23

Top 10

Thursday, September 8

Arizona (1-0) at #9 Oklahoma State (1-0)

This will be a fun quarterback battle between the Cowboys Brandon Wheeden and the Wildcats Nick Foles. Foles threw 5 TD passes in a rout of Northern Arizona, while Wheeden threw 3 TDs but also 3 INTs in a win against Louisiana Lafayette. It was also disconcerting for the Cowboys that they gave up 34 points to Lafayette. WR Justin Blackmon and RB Joseph Randle were major players in that first victory and will be on the Wildcats radar tonight. These teams actually met last December in the Alamo Bowl, which Oklahoma State won in a rout. I expect tonight's game to be a little closer but the same result, a Cowboys win.

Prediction: Oklahoma State 31, Arizona 27

Saturday, September 10

Northwestern State (1-0) at #2 LSU (1-0)

The Tigers impressive win over Oregon vaulted them to number two in the polls. QB Jarrett Lee did what he had to do, and the Tigers defense slowed down the Ducks vaunted offense. Lee will be back starting in this one, as Northwestern State moves on from playing Delta State to playing the second best team in the country. To say they will be shell shocked is an understatement.

Prediction: LSU 42, Northwestern State 9

#3 Alabama (1-0) at #23 Penn State (1-0)

It is the second game of the home and home series between these teams. Bama routed Penn State last year at home, so the Nittany Lions are looking for payback. As many as four quarterbacks could play in this game. The Nittany Lions have Robert Bolden and the ginger Matt McGloin, while the Crimson Tide have AJ McCarron and Phillip Sims. McCarron got most of the time in the win against Kent State, but each quarterback had two interceptions. Both are young and the crowd noise in Happy Valley could cause them both problems. However, I think Bama's defense will force Bolden and McGloin into a ton of mistakes, and offset any mistakes their young quarterbacks make. I think that Penn State can hang for a half but Bama is just too good.

Prediction: Alabama 28, Penn State 13

Charleston Southern (0-1) at #5 Florida State (1-0)

Florida State pitched a shutout last week while Charleston Southern got shut out by Central Florida. For the Seminoles it is all about next week when Oklahoma comes to Tallahassee.

Prediction: Florida State 52, Charleston Southern 6

#6 Stanford (1-0) at Duke (0-1)

Duke couldn't beat I-AA Richmond, and now they get to host Andrew Luck and the Cardinal. The Cardinal didn't seem to miss a beat without Jim Harbaugh as coach last week and I expect another emphatic victory this weekend.

Prediction: Stanford 38, Duke 17

Oregon State (0-1) at #8 Wisconsin (1-0)

Russell Wilson was impressive in his Badgers debut and Wisconsin looks to have a running and passing threat at QB, to go with their impressive stable of running backs. The Beavers shockingly lost at home to Sacramento State and obviously miss Jacquizz Rodgers. They will be without his brother James Rodgers in this game and are unsettled at quarterback. If they thought last week was bad, the ugliness could be far worse this weekend.

Prediction: Wisconsin 47, Oregon State 17

Fresno State (0-1) at #10 Nebraska (1-0)

Things will be a little more challenging for the Cornhuskers this week with the Bulldogs coming to Lincoln. Taylor Martinez appeared healthy, running for 135 yards and passing for 116. The Huskers defense looked dominant and in typical Blackshirts form, with Jared Crick standing out. The Bulldogs are quarterbacked by David Carr's younger brother, Derek Carr. Carr is playing behind a very young, and inexperienced offensive line and he will likely find himself on the turf quite a bit in this game. Nebraska needs to be focused because Fresno State is used to playing high caliber competition. I know the Huskers are looking forward to a chance at revenge against Washington next week, but they can't look ahead.

Prediction: Nebraska 37, Fresno State 14

Last Week: 8-2

2011 NFL Predictions

The division previews are done, now it is time to predict what I think will happen in the playoffs. Last season I correctly predicted 3 out of the 6 playoff teams in the NFC. That doesn't sound too good but my main prediction for the NFC was spot on. I had the Packers finishing 10-6, getting the 6th seed and then making it to the Super Bowl. In the AFC I had 5 out of the 6 playoff teams correct, but had the Steelers losing in the Wild Card round. I don't foresee much changing this season. The only new playoff team I think will come from the AFC is the Chargers replacing the Chiefs. In the NFC, I like 4 of the 6 playoff teams from last season to make it back. The new playoff teams will be the Cardinals and the Cowboys, with the Seahawks and Bears missing out. I believe Super Bowl XLVI will be a rematch of Super Bowl XXXIX between the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles. However, this time, I think the Eagles come out on top. I like the off-season additions and I think the Eagles have the talent and the coaching to win it all. This all hinges on the health of Michael Vick. If he goes down, so do the Eagles chances of being Super Bowl champions.

NFC

1. Green Bay Packers (NFC North winner), 12-4
2. New Orleans Saints (NFC South winner), 12-4
3. Philadelphia Eagles (NFC East winner), 11-5
4. Arizona Cardinals (NFC West winner) 7-9
5. Atlanta Falcons (Wild Card), 10-6
6. Dallas Cowboys (Wild Card), 10-6

NFC Wild Card Round

#3 Philadelphia Eagles over #6 Dallas Cowboys
#5 Atlanta Falcons over #4 Arizona Cardinals

NFC Divisional Round

#1 Green Bay Packers over #5 Atlanta Falcons
#3 Philadelphia Eagles over #2 New Orleans Saints

NFC Championship

#3 Philadelphia Eagles over #1 Green Bay Packers


AFC

1. New England Patriots (AFC East winner), 13-3
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC North winner), 12-4
3. San Diego Chargers (AFC West winner), 11-5
4. Indianapolis Colts (AFC South winner), 9-7
5. New York Jets (Wild Card), 11-5
6. Baltimore Ravens (Wild Card), 9-7

AFC Wild Card Round

#3 San Diego Chargers over #6 Baltimore Ravens
#4 Indianapolis Colts over #5 New York Jets

AFC Divisional Round

#1 New England Patriots over #4 Indianapolis Colts
#2 Pittsburgh Steelers over #3 San Diego Chargers

AFC Championship

#1 New England Patriots over #2 Pittsburgh Steelers


Super Bowl XLVI

#3 Philadelphia Eagles over #1 New England Patriots

Cram Session - Week 1

Football officially kicked off yesterday and goes into high gear this weekend. It is a nice appetizer for when the real men start playing on Thursday. There are two intriguing games featuring teams in the Top 10. The SEC have been the unquestioned kings of football, but this weekend they could get knocked off their throne a bit. On the other hand, it wouldn't be surprising if they continue to show why they have been so dominant. My favorite teams, Notre Dame and Nebraska have BCS aspirations. The Irish have a challenging game at home against South Florida, while Nebraska gets to beat up on Chattanooga.

Games That Matter to Me

South Florida at #16 Notre Dame

Another season, another year of Notre Dame is back talk from the college football media. The Irish were 4-5 last year and in disarray after an embarrassing home loss to Tulsa. Then, behind freshman QB Tommy Rees, they reeled off four straight wins, and put Notre Dame back on the map. Most of that team returns, including on defense where the Irish really shined during their winning streak. QB Dayne Crist is back from injury and will once again be the starter. WR Michael Floyd is still the Irish's best offensive player, but Notre Dame hopes they can have a more effective running attack, led by junior Cierre Wood. South Florida is getting some hype out of the putrid Big East. QB B.J. Daniels returns, hoping to bounce back from a rough season. His numbers were down across the board and it earned him the ire of the few Bulls fans there are. Notre Dame's linebackers will need to be alert as Daniels is big and a threat to run with the ball. This game makes me nervous as it isn't a slam dunk win like some are saying. The Bulls coach Skip Holtz is the son of former Note Dame coach Lou Holtz, so he will be amped to return to Notre Dame Stadium. This one should be close, but I like the Irish.

Prediction: Notre Dame 24, South Florida 17

Top 10

Saturday, September 3

Tulsa at #1 Oklahoma

The Sooners start off their run for a National Championship with what could be a tougher than expected game against Tulsa. Tulsa ended 2010 on a tear and finished ranked for the first time since 1991. However, they will be without leading receiver Damaris Johnson, who is facing embezzlement charges. The Sooners bring back QB Landry Jones and WR Ryan Broyles. They face some questions on defense with the injury to Travis Lewis. The loss of Johnson will really hurt Tulsa, and the Sooners will have an easier time than they would have, had he played.

Prediction: Oklahoma 40, Tulsa 17

Kent State at #2 Alabama

Despite questions at quarterback and the loss of RB Mark Ingram and WR Julio Jones, Alabama has high hopes due to Trent Richardson at running back and returning most of a dominating defense. Both AJ McCarron and Phillip Sims will see time at quarterback but at some point this season the Tide will have to settle on one of them.

Prediction: Alabama 52, Kent State 10

#3 Oregon vs. #4 LSU in Arlington, Texas

The game of the weekend will take place at Jerry Jones playhouse. Last year's runners up, the Oregon Ducks are trying to shed the label that when matched against a tough defensive line, their offense shrivels like a prune. LSU is looking to overcome suspensions, including to starting QB Jordan Jefferson. Ducks sensational RB LeMichael James is coming off a rough showing on the ground against Auburn in the title game. The big question is, can the Ducks open up the holes necessary for him against a stout Tigers defensive line. Jarrett Lee gets the start at quarterback for LSU. He has experience, but most of that experience has been mediocre. I like the Ducks to place themselves immediately at the forefront of the national title chase.

Prediction: Oregon 21, LSU 14

#5 Boise State at #19 Georgia in Atlanta, Georgia

Last year, the Broncos opened up with a virtual road game against Virginia Tech in Washington, DC and knocked off the Hokies. Many assumed that cleared the way for them to the national title game but a shocking loss at Nevada ended that dream. They open this season with another road test, against the Bulldogs of Georgia. Georgia is coming off a 6-7 season that has their coach Mark Richt on the hot seat. A loss in this game and the natives may riot. The quarterback battle will be fun to watch in this one. Kellen Moore of Boise State against Aaron Murray of Georgia. I don't really think the Bulldogs should be ranked after their poor season a year ago and also losing A.J. Green. If this were in Athens, I would go Georgia, but Boise has won in "neutral" sites before and I think they will again.

Prediction: Boise State 27, Georgia 24

LA-Monroe at #6 Florida State

For some reason everyone is on the Seminoles bandwagon. Things have gotten so low at Florida State that going 10-4 makes everyone think that they are back to their perennial days in the Top 5. We will find out September 17th when they host Oklahoma, until then the Seminoles get to feast on teams like LA-Monroe.

Prediction: Florida State 44, LA-Monroe 14

San Jose State at #7 Stanford

Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck begins his Heisman campaign, and the Cardinal begin life without coach Jim Harbaugh. San Jose State is a nice cushion to adjust to new beginnings.

Prediction: Stanford 51, San Jose State 10

LA-Lafayette at #9 Oklahoma State

The Cowboys enter the season thinking big with the returns of QB Brandon Weeden and awesome WR Justin Blackmon. Dana Holgersen left his job as offensive coordinator to become head coach at West Virginia, so it will be shown this year whether the success of the offense was the players or the coordinator.

Prediction: Oklahoma State 48, LA-Lafayette 13

Chattanooga at #10 Nebraska

Things were going swimmingly for the Huskers last year. The offense was clicking, the defense remained staunch, but then QB Taylor Martinez got hurt and things went downhill. The offense reverted back to its 2009 form and the Huskers dropped three of their last four games to finish a disappointing 10-4. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson was fired and replaced by running backs coach Tim Beck. Martinez is once again healthy and can hopefully stay healthy. Roy Helu is gone at RB, but Rex Burkhead played very well last season and should step in and fill Helu's role. Niles Paul is gone at wide receiver but he never lived up to expectations, so that isn't a huge loss. Jared Crick is back on defense and considered one of the top defensive lineman in the country. The schedule is tough this year but with Ohio State dealing with their issues, a Big 10 (really 12) title is certainly possible. Hopefully, this game will provide the offense some confidence that they can build on throughout the season.

Prediction: Nebraska 38, Chattanooga 6

Sunday, September 4

SMU at #8 Texas A&M

Texas A&M has been making headlines off the field as they have announced they will leave the Big 12 (really 10) and more than likely wind up in the SEC. However, for this year their focus is the Big 12 and also being in the Top 10 again for the first time in a long time. They start off against SMU, which has found itself in bowl games the last two seasons under June Jones. They are looking to continue their resurrection and are hoping they find their way into the Big 12 (really 10) to replace the Aggies. If that was decided in a head to head matchup they would be out of luck. Aggies should handle them relatively easily.

Prediction: Texas A&M 38, SMU 20

2011 NFL Divisional Previews - AFC East

The AFC East is all about the New England Patriots and the New York Jets. Since the arrival of Rex Ryan in New York, the Patriots/Jets rivalry has become one of the best in the NFL. The past two seasons the Patriots have been AFC East champs but then folded at home in the playoffs. The Jets have stepped up when it matters most, winning four road games in the last two years in the playoffs. The Miami Dolphins were one of the best road teams in the league, going 6-2. Unfortunately, they went 1-7 at home and put Tony Sparano on the hot seat. The Buffalo Bills remained irrelevant but at least showed some spunk on offense behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Steve Johnson.

1. New England Patriots

2010 Record: 14-2, 1st place AFC East Head Coach: Bill Belichick (12th season New England, 177-100 career)
Key Additions: OL Nate Solder, QB Ryan Mallett, WR Chad Ochocinco, DL Albert Haynesworth, DE Shaun Ellis
Key Losses: TE Alge Crumpler, OL Nick Kaczur, DE Ty Warren, DE Tully Banta-Cain, S Brandon Meriweather

2011 Outlook: The Patriots enter the 2011 season with something to prove. Once known for their consistency in the postseason, they have lost their last two home playoff games and haven't won a playoff game since 2008. The Patriots made some high profile moves this off-season with two players that have some character concerns. Those players would be WR Chad Ochocinco and DL Albert Haynesworth. The Patriots have been successful in the past on some questionable players, including Randy Moss and Corey Dillon. Ochocinco and Belichick have always been friendly so as long as he can still produce that shouldn't be a problem. With Haynesworth it is always a question of motivation, and it remains to be seen if the Haynesworth that we saw in his contract year will come out to play in New England. QB Tom Brady is coming off another outstanding season, throwing 36 TDs to just 4 INTs. Those numbers are already amazing but are even more amazing when you look at who the Patriots have at RB to throw off defenses. They have some talented guys, in Ben Jarvis Green-Ellis, and Danny Woodhead but no one that really scares a defense and would make them focus on the Patriots ground game. Even his wide receivers aren't all world, led by Deion Branch and Wes Welker. That being said, the Patriots do have a two headed monster at tight end with Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski. One major area of weakness last season was the Patriots pass defense, which finished 30th in the league. The Patriots jettisoned Brandon Meriweather. Meriweather struggled last season and only made the Pro Bowl because the Pro Bowl means absolute crap these days. That means a bigger role for Patrick Chung who was decent but inconsistent last season. The Patriots are hoping that teaming Haynesworth with Vincent Wilfork will take some pressure off of the secondary. If anything is to stop the Patriots from another dominating season and then playoff success it is the questions surrounding the defense. That will be the area to watch and the key to Patriots season.

Prediction: 13-3

2. New York Jets

2010 Record: 11-5, 2nd place AFC East
Head Coach: Rex Ryan (3rd season New York, 24-14 career)
Key Additions: DL Muhammad Wilkerson, WR Plaxico Burress, WR Derrick Mason Key Losses: WR Jericho Cotchery, WR Braylon Edwards, RT Damien Woody, FB Tony Richardson, WR/KR Brad Smith, P Steve Weatherford, CB Drew Coleman, DE Shaun Ellis, NT Kris Jenkins, LB Jason Taylor

2011 Outlook: The Jets haven't quite been the circus this off-season that they were last off-season. Most of their free agent signings were not huge headline grabbers, although the pickup of Plaxico Burress certainly qualifies. Despite that, the expectations remain high and its another Super Bowl or bust mentality for Rex Ryan. This is the season where we find out if QB Mark Sanchez can become good or if he is merely an average QB riding the coat tails of a talented team. Last season RBs Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson ended up sharing most of the carries. The scuttlebutt coming out of New York this season is that Tomlinson will be more of a third down back and Greene will take a more prominent role. The wide receivers will be different. Santonio Holmes re-signed, but Burress and Derrick Mason replace Braylon Edwards and Jericho Cotchery. It remains to be seen if Burress can pick up right where he left off, and also whether Mason can continue to be productive despite being an old man. Dustin Keller has been a good security blanket at TE for Sanchez and that doesn't figure to change. Ryan prides himself on defense and the Jets were very good for most of last season. However, against the Steelers the defense folded and put the Jets in an insurmountable hole. They missed out on Nnamdi Asomugha so Antonio Cromartie returns. DL Muhammad Wilkerson was drafted in the first round and will likely be called upon early to help what was at times a weak pass rush last season. The Jets have a stretch of three straight road games early in the season that could make or break them. I expect them to follow their usual formula, move the ball with the run, only ask Sanchez to do anything when completely necessary and rely on your defense to win games. That has worked for them the past two seasons and it will likely work again this year.

Prediction: 11-5

3. Miami Dolphins

2010 Record: 7-9, 3rd place AFC East
Head Coach: Tony Sparano (4th season Miami, 25-24 career)
Key Additions: C Mike Pouncey, RB Daniel Thomas, RB Reggie Bush, QB Matt Moore, LB Kevin Burnett, DE Jared Odrick, DE Jason Taylor
Key Losses: QB Chad Pennington, QB Tyler Thigpen, RB Ronnie Brown, RB Ricky Williams, LB Channing Crowder

2011 Outlook: The Dolphins have a defense that is capable of keeping them in every game but their offense just isn't there yet. The Dolphins hope another year under his belt will help QB Chad Henne. Henne has been underwhelming and has seen the fan base largely turn against him. When rumors swirled that the Dolphins would be trading for Kyle Orton that really turned the tide against Henne. Henne will likely have some margin for error as his backup is Matt Moore, who has shown little in his career. The Dolphins backfield is completely different. Gone are Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams and in their place is Reggie Bush and rookie Daniel Thomas. It will be interesting to see how the Dolphins split the carries between Thomas and Bush. Coach Tony Sparano has mentioned that Bush could be their featured back, but he has never done that in his pro career so people are obviously skeptical. Henne needs to develop a rapport with WR Brandon Marshall. Marshall was very quiet last season and didn't show the play making abilities that made the Dolphins acquire him. On the other side is Davone Bess, who will be expected to make a leap this year after a solid season last year. Defensively, the Dolphins aren't filled with big names but they are good. They were in the top ten last season against both the rush and the pass. Jason Taylor has been brought back for his third stint with the team. He had a pretty good year in New York last season so the possibility of him contributing this season isn't impossible to believe. One player that did make a name for himself last season was LB Cameron Wake, who finished with 14 sacks. Having to face the Patriots and Jets four times, along with the NFC East is going to prove to be too daunting for Miami. I have zero faith in Henne and there are just too many unanswered questions about the offense to expect anything more than another disappointing year for the Dolphins.

Prediction: 6-10

4. Buffalo Bills

2010 Record: 4-12, last place AFC East
Head Coach: Chan Gailey (2nd season Buffalo, 22-28 career)
Key Additions: DE Marcel Dareus, WR/KR Brad Smith, QB Tyler Thigpen, LB Nick Barnett
Key Losses: LB Paul Posluszny, SS Donte Whitner, DE Marcus Stroud

2011 Outlook: I thought writing about the Bengals was tough, what the hell do you say about the Bills? I suppose there are some bright spots on the team. Ryan Fitzpatrick had a solid season last year and is firmly entrenched as the starter. If he puts together another nice season, the Bills might finally have themselves a quarterback. Fred Jackson is expected to be pushed by C.J. Spiller this season. Spiller largely underwhelmed last season, so the pressure will be on him to step it up. Steve Johnson came out of nowhere last season to take the league by storm. He did have one forgettable moment against the Steelers last season where he dropped a game winning touchdown pass. Other than that though he was spectacular. The Bills have questions on the offensive line, where a bunch of no names will try to keep Fitzpatrick upright. On defense the Bills saw Paul Posluszny and Dont Whitner depart. They are hoping that Shawne Merriman has something left in the tank. It will be bad news for them if it turns out that he was nothing more than a steroid fueled player. Their run defense was atrocious last season, which was a shame because they had one of the better pass defenses in the league. Hey, the Bills will probably win one more game than last season but that's about all I see positive coming out of Buffalo. I think this team might need a change of scenery, or a new head coach, or a General Manager that isn't a country bumpkin, or.... you get the picture.

Prediction: 5-11

2011 NFL Divisional Previews - NFC East

The NFC East is considered by many to be the best division in football. However, last season just one team made the playoffs and they were knocked out in the Wild Card round. Going into last season everyone thought Kelvin Kolb would be the man in Philadelphia. Then he was injured in Week 1, Mike Vick came in, played tremendously and never looked back. On his back the Eagles rode their way to a division championship. The Dallas Cowboys entered 2010 with high hopes of playing at home in the Super Bowl. Instead, they got off to a slow start, Tony Romo got injured, Wade Phillips got fired and they missed the playoffs. The Giants had a solid season at 10-6 but it wasn't good enough as they missed the playoffs for a second straight season. Another missed playoff berth and that might be the end of the road for Tom Coughlin. The Washington Redskins gambled and tried to win now with Donovan McNabb. It blew up in their faces and the Skins are now in year 18 of their rebuilding plan.

1. Philadelphia Eagles

2010 Record: 10-6, 1st place NFC East
Head Coach: Andy Reid (13th season Philadelphia, 128-82-1 career)
Key Additions: OG Danny Watkins, RB Ronnie Brown, K Alex Henery, QB Vince Young, WR Steve Smith, CB Nnamdi Asomugha, DE Jason Babin, DT Cullen Jenkins, CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, OT Ryan Harris
Key Losses: QB Kevin Kolb, G Max Jean-Gilles, K David Akers, SS Quintin Mikell, DT Broderick Bunkley, LB Stewart Bradley, LB Ernie Sims

2011 Outlook: The Miami Heat of the NFL. The Dream Team. Those are just some of the nicknames given to the Eagles after the splash they made in free agency. The Eagles signed a lot of big names, but none bigger than CB Nnamdi Asomugha. Asomugha signed a few days after the Eagles traded Kevin Kolb for Arizona CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Many thought that meant the end of Asante Samuels Eagles career but it appears the Eagles may play all three corners at once. They should have the most formidable secondary in football. They also added Cullen Jenkins and Jason Babin to their defensive line. Put those two in the mix with underrated Trent Cole and that's a fearsome group. It was necessary for the Eagles to improve the defense, especially after their struggles last season. Juan Castillo is the new defensive coordinator, moving over from being the offensive line coach. Many are skeptical about how well Castillo will do, but he doesn't have a lack of talent. Offensively, as long as Vick stays healthy the Eagles will remain one of the most exciting teams in the league. LeSean McCoy has Ronnie Brown joining him in the backfield. DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin are both speed demons and capable of making big plays. They signed Steve Smith from the Giants and if he returns to full health he could contribute, as people forget how productive he was in New York. Heck, if Vick remembers he has Brent Celek on his team that is another great option. Two road games to open the season is tough but they are certainly winnable and the schedule lightens after that. I expect another NFC East championship for Philadelphia, and anything less than a Super Bowl championship will be considered a failure.

Prediction: 11-5

2. Dallas Cowboys

2010 Record: 6-10, 3rd place NFC East
Head Coach: Jason Garrett (1st season Dallas, 5-3 career)
Key Additions: OT Tyron Smith, FS Abram Elam
Key Losses: RG Leonard Davis, C Andre Gurode, OT Marc Colombo, RB Marion Barber, WR Roy Williams, WR Sam Hurd, DE Stephen Bowen

2011 Outlook: Recent history suggests that the Cowboys don't deal well with high expectations. Each time they have had high expectations they have fallen flat on their faces. Then you look at a season like 2009, when they had very little buzz surrounding them, and they went out and finally won a playoff game. 2011 is similar to 2009 in that not many are talking about the Cowboys. That is the main reason I like them to get back to the playoffs this season. QB Tony Romo is back and despite ludicrous statements from some that he should compete with Jon Kitna for his job, he is the guy. Romo was putting up some very good numbers for his injury and is a much better quarterback than people give him credit for. Marion Barber is gone, giving Felix Jones the starting running back spot. Jones has looked really good in preseason and has shown flashes of being an electrifying back. Dez Bryant takes over the #2 receiver spot with bum Roy Williams out of Dallas. Bryant has had some character issues but there is no denying his talent. Him and Miles Austin, along with Jason Witten give the Cowboys a formidable passing attack. The offensive line is a huge question mark for Dallas. They are replacing more than half of the unit and the success of their season will hinge on how quickly the new group meshes. Defense was non-existent in Dallas last season. They gave up the most points in franchise history, putting in place their move to bring in Rob Ryan as defensive coordinator. The last name Ryan brings plenty of cache but Rob hasn't proven himself near the level of his brother Rex or father Buddy. The personnel isn't much different from last year so if the Cowboys show some improvement, that will be a feather under the cap for Rob. This is a talented team that was screaming for a coach to go with that talent. I think Jason Garrett isn't anything special but he will be better and hold players far more accountable than Wade Phillips ever did.

Prediction: 10-6

3. New York Giants

2010 Record: 10-6, 2nd place NFC East
Head Coach: Tom Coughlin (8th season New York, 141-114 career)
Key Additions: CB Prince Amukamara, C/G David Baas, OL Stacy Andrews, QB David Carr
Key Losses: WR Steve Smith, FB Madison Hedgecock, C Shaun O'Hara, G/C Rich Seubert, OL Shawn Andrews, TE Kevin Boss, LB Chase Blackburn, DT Barry Cofield

2011 Outlook: Giants fans are panicking. Two straight years of missing the playoffs, followed by an off-season of missing out on free agents, losing free agents, and then a rash of injuries to their cornerbacks has them concerned. QB Eli Manning is solid but not spectacular and needs to stop making the stupid amount of mistakes that he did last year. Eli has a propensity to throw the ball in tight spots and just make bone headed plays that make you wonder if he is blind. He has some great targets to throw to in Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham. He isn't sure who he can rely on at tight end with the departure of Kevin Boss. The running game will once again be led by Ahmad Bradshaw, with Brandon Jacobs backing him up. Both had fumble issues last year, something the Giants hope the off-season helped to cure. The offensive line, which had been stable for years, is undergoing many changes. Shaun O'Hara and Rich Seubert were released as the Giants felt they had to get younger. The defense struggled a ton last season and most of that has to do with them not having the players at linebacker they are used to. They were hoping that they improved the cornerback position with the drafting of Prince Amukumara, but now they will be without him for half of the season. DE Osi Umenyiora is not happy about his contract situation and Tom Coughlin has to make sure it doesn't become a distraction. The schedule is forgiving early on so the Giants might get off to a fast start, but it ends rough and I think the Giants have too much turmoil and question marks to make the playoffs this season.

Prediction: 8-8

4. Washington Redskins

2010 Record: 6-10, last place NFC East
Head Coach: Mike Shanahan (2nd season Washington, 160-113 career)
Key Additions: LB Ryan Kerrigan, G Chris Chester, WR Jabar Gaffney, WR Donte Stallworth, RB Tim Hightower, P Sav Rocca, NT Barry Cofield, DE Stephen Bowen, CB Josh Wilson, FS O.J. Atogwe
Key Losses: QB Donovan McNabb, OT Stephon Hyer, C Casey Rabach, RB Clinton Portis, CB Carlos Rogers, DT Albert Haynesworth, DE Vonnie Holliday, LB Chris Wilson, DL Phillip Daniels, DE Andre Carter

2011 Outlook: Rex Grossman, John Beck, Kellen Clemens. No, that isn't a list of players that are currently playing in the UFL, that is the Redskins quarterback depth chart. Donovan McNabb was so bad, fat and lazy last year that the Redskins have convinced themselves that a trio of bums gives them a better chance. The first guy to get a shot will be Rex Grossman who was announced as the starter yesterday. Aside from the questions at quarterback some bright spots have appeared. The Redskins may actually have a pretty good running game. The trade for Tim Hightower is looking brilliant right now and his backup, Ryan Torain is also the kind of power runner that Mike Shanahan loves. Even rookie Roy Helu is a possible option to contribute immediately. The Skins got Santana Moss some help, trading for underrated Jabar Gaffney. They go two deep at tight end with Chris Cooley and Fred Davis. The parts are there, but alas, without a good quarterback it probably won't matter. Shanahan decided last year that a defense that had been Top 10 for most of the 2000s needed fixing. So he brought in crappy defensive coordinator Jim Haslett and switched to the 3-4. However, they had a bunch of players that were more comfortable with the 4-3 and the results were disastrous. This year, to their credit they jettisoned most of those guys and brought in players that could play their defense. If Haslett can't get improvement out of the defense this year, it might be time to look for another guy to run the 3-4. The Skins early season schedule is favorable, and it isn't crazy to think they could start 6-2 if everything goes right. However, the last half is brutal and they don't have the talent to make the playoffs facing that brutal of a schedule. I expect the Skins will lose some games in the early going that they "should" win and that will lead to a craptastic season. However, I believe there is hope for the future and that the Skins are finally starting to bring in some young talent. It is a matter of finding the quarterback that can properly lead that talent.

Prediction: 5-11, not very good as Steve Spurrier once said