Smith Bros Pick Panel: Week

Rough week for our "experts" as we combined to go 38-32. Not good, not good at all. This week, we strive to do better for you, our readers. 10 games shall we pick from the ESPN College Pick 'Em. You think you're better than us? Comment below your ten picks, and you might just gain that "expert" status with us. Let's look at the overall standings.

Standings through Week 2 (Week 2):

1. Trey 15-5 (7-3)

2. Pop 13-7 (4-6)

T-3. Alty 12-8 (6-4)

Estep 12-8 (6-4)

T-5. Jarred 11-9 (6-4)

Dug 11-9 (5-5)

Dead Last. Corbeech 9-11 (4-6)

Like I said, not a good week

Florida State vs Louisville

Florida State: Corbeech, Dug, Jarred, and Alty

Louisville: Trey, Estep, and Pop

Miami vs Appalachian State

Miami: Dug, Alty, Corbeech, Jarred, and Pop

Appalachian State: Trey and Estep

Oregon vs Nebraska

Oregon: Pop, Alty, Coreech, Jarred, and Trey

Nebraska: Dug and Estep

Alabama vs Mississippi

Alabama: Everyone

Mississippi: No One

Pitt vs Oklahoma State

Pitt: Corbeech, Estep, Jarred, and Trey
Oklahoma State: Pop, Alty, and Dug


Texas A&M vs Auburn

Texas A&M: Everyone
Auburn: No One


Michigan State vs Notre Dame

Michigan State: Trey
Notre Dame: Corbeech, Pop, Jarred, Alty, Estep, and Dug


Ohio State vs Oklahoma

Ohio State: Pop, Corbeech, Estep, Jarred, and Trey
Oklahoma: Alty and Dug


Southern Cal vs Stanford

Southern Cal: Alty
Stanford: Trey, Pop, Estep, Corbeech, Jarred, and Dug


UCLA vs BYU

UCLA: Dug, Alty, Pop, Corbeech, Jarred, and Estep
BYU: Trey

College Football Week 3

Week 3! It is the time of season where we begin to see some separtation at the top and weed out the pretenders from the contenders. This week, we have the complete opposite slate that we did a week ago. We have top teams playing this week; something that we didn't see at all last time around. Here are three games to watch, and also our picks for the other games.

1.) Heisman Candidates Clash

At noon, we will be treated to a game that might decide the ACC race as Florida State travels north to take on the Fighting Lamar Jacksons. It will be a faceoff between two of the top three players in the conference featuring Jackson of Louisville and Dalvin Cook from Florida State. While the Seminoles have knocked off Mississippi and FCS Charleston Southern, the Cardinals have essentially had a cake walk with the likes of Charlotte and Syracuse. Lamar Jackson is putting up unheard of numbers. Can he keep it up as the Cardinals face their first real test?

Florida State 28, Louisville 24

2.) Will Lightning Strike Thrice?

If Nick Saban has lost to a team in back-to-back years, I haven't seen it. But a team to beat him three straight? That is unheard of! The last two meetings have each been decided by six points each with Ole Miss coming out on top. When the two teams face off tonight, it will be in Oxford where the Rebels have not lost hosting a ranked team since Auburn came in ranked 3rd in 2014. Alabama looks to hold onto their top ranking and control of the SEC West. Mississippi hasn't won a conference championship since 1963. Since that year, Alabama has won 19. It's obvious where the SEC runs through, and the Tide will run through Ole Miss tonight as they exact their revenge.

Alabama 38, Mississippi 21

3.) Second Best, or Last Chance?

Tonight in Norman, Ohio State travels to Oklahoma as two of the nation's best teams will face off. Both sides stand to benefit from a win that could shape the playoff race. If the Buckeyes pick up the win on the road, they might be stealing some first place votes from Alabama. If Oklahoma can pull it off, they will be right back in the talk for the playoff. Oklahoma stands to benefit the most. A loss here would all but assure that they will be missing out on the playoff. 

 Oklahoma 31, Ohio State 28

Other Games

TCU over Iowa State

Tennessee over Ohio

New Mexico over Rutgers

Marshall over Akron

Bowling Green over MTSU

Clemson over South Carolina State

Temple over Penn State

Memphis over Kansas

Iowa over North Dakota State

Wisconsin over Georgia State

Miami over Appalachian State

Georgia Tech over Vanderbilt

Connecticut over Virginia

Washington State over Idaho

Tulsa over North Carolina A&T

Kansas State over Florida Atlantic

Toledo over Fresno State

Central Michigan over UNLV

Ball State over Eastern Kentucky

UMass over Florida International

Michigan over Colorado

Nebraska over Oregon

San Diego State over Northern Illinois

Kent State over Monmouth

Western Kentucky over Miami (OH)

Virginia Tech over Boston College

North Carolina over James Madison

Oklahoma State over Pitt

South Florida over Syracuse

Kentucky over New Mexico State

East Carolina over South Carolina

Colorado State over Northern Colorado

Wyoming over UC Davis

Western Michigan over Illinois

Oregon State over Idaho State

Eastern Michigan over Charlotte

North Carolina State over Old Dominion

Georgia Southern over Louisiana-Monroe

Wake Forest over Delaware

Army over UTEP

Texas A&M over Auburn

LSU over Mississippi State

Texas Tech over Louisiana Tech

Southern Mississippi over Troy

Maryland over Central Florida

Navy over Tulane

SMU over Liberty

South Alabama over Louisiana-Lafayette

Notre Dame over Michigan State

Arkansas over Texas State

Florida over North Texas

Georgia over Missouri

Stanford over Southern Cal

Washington over Portland State

Duke over Northwestern

Nevada over Buffalo

UCLA over BYU

Utah over San Jose State

Texas over Cal

Arizona over Hawaii

Season Record

124-33 (.790%)

Picks Panel at Noon

-Dug

@chansm1th

Smith Bros Pick Panel, Week 2

Last week, we brought you the first part of our weekly Pick Panel. We call these guys our "experts" seeing as anyone who talks sports is deemed one. Our experts last week went an astounding 45-25. We're a joke, who are we kidding? Lets look at the standings, then get our week two picks in.

Standings through Week 1:

1.) Pop (9-1)

2.) Trey (8-2)

T-3.)Alty (6-4)

Dug (6-4)

Estep (6-4)

T-5.)Corbeech (5-5)

Jarred (5-5)

As you can see, Pop is already running away from the field with Trey nipping at his heels. Everyone lost the LSU game, and poor Jarred is the lone wolf who thought USC stood a chance against Alabama. Difficult schedule to pick this week. Only 4 of the 10 matchups have a ranked team involved. Let's see how everyone weighs in.

Penn State vs Pitt

Penn State:Pop, Jarred, Corbeech, and Trey

Pitt: Dug, Estep, and Alty

North Carolina State vs East Carolina

North Carolina State:Dug, Alty, Estep, Corbeech, Pop, and Jarred

East Carolina: Trey

Wake Forest vs Duke

Wake Forest: None

Duke: Dug, Pop, Estep, Corbeech, Trey, Alty, and Jarred

Arkansas vs TCU

Arkansas: None

TCU: Dug, Trey, Estep, Alty, Jarred, Corbeech, and Pop

BYU vs Utah

BYU: Pop, Corbeech, and Alty

Utah: Dug, Jarred, Estep, and Trey

Iowa State vs Iowa

Iowa State: None

Iowa: Dug, Corbeech, Estep, Trey, Jarred, Alty, and Pop

Virginia Tech vs Tennessee

Virginia Tech: Dug

Tennessee:Trey, Pop, Estep, Alty, Jarred, and Corbeech

Texas Tech vs Arizona State

Texas Tech: Dug, Estep, Corbeech, and Pop

Arizona State: Jarred, Alty, and Trey

Washington State vs Boise State

Washington State: None

Boise State: Dug, Corbeech, Jarred, Pop, Trey, Estep, and Alty

Virginia vs Oregon

Virginia: None

Oregon: Dug, Corbeech, Estep, Pop, Trey, Alty, and Jarred

If you want to participate, leave your picks in the comments. Happy Football Saturday!!

College Football Week 2

As exciting as the first weekend of college football was, the second is equally as terrible. Of the 22 ranked teams in action, there is not a single game between two of them. I was literally struggling to find my three points for this post, no joke! While there may be a lack of marquee games, there is no lack of games in general. We have a fully stocked slate of games to pick, and ten of them will be from our "experts" just before the action gets started. So let's dive in!

1) The Battle at Bristol

Although I have love for neither team, you'd have to not register a pulse to say that you aren't excited for this game. Football in the middle of a racetrack? I think the idea is great, This is definitely a game you will want to turn on should you find yourself bored in the middle of a Saturday evening. The most people to witness a college football game saw Michigan take on Notre Dame in 2013. The attendance that night was 115,109. Bristol is expected to smash that record on Saturday night. Officials are expecting over 150,000 people in attendance! Now about the game; Tennessee will have to play better if they hope to win. After last week's near scare with Appalachian State, the Vols dropped from Top 10 to barely Top 20. Virginia Tech is no Appy State. If Tennessee has the same troubles that plagued them on opening night, they will not enjoy their trip to the World's Fastest Half-Mile. I'm thinking upset.

Virginia Tech 24, Tennessee 17

2) TCU Welcomes Arkansas

TCU handled FCS foe South Dakota State last week, but not as easily as they had hoped. The Horned Frogs won 59-41 but allowed 461 yards in the victory. Not many teams last week can say they gave up that many yards and still won by three scores. Arkansas edged out Louisiana Tech in it's opener 21-20 in a game where they had a fourth quarter drive to take the lead. Despite TCU giving up so much on defense, Arkansas will have a hard time putting up those numbers on anyone. Cue "the SEC is overrated" talk.

TCU 48, Arkansas 10

3) I Warned You about the Schedule

Since there aren't many other games I will watch, you're stuck with me being a homer for our last topic. Kentucky travels to Florida for the SEC opener for both schools coming off a very Kentucky-like" collapse. After leading 35-10 with under a minute to go before the half, the Cats took the rest of the game off last week and lost to Southern Mississippi 44-35. Unacceptable! Coming off the upset, they face a tough hill to climb when they face the Florida Gators in the Swamp; a team they haven't beat in their last 29 tries. Florida hosted UMass last week and by no means showed off any offense in the 24-7 win. One could say that their defense showed up, but come on, it's UMass. This game will be focused on the run offense. Whichever team rushes for the most on the ground should win. Take it for what it is worth.

Kentucky 28, Florida 24

Other Games

Oklahoma State over Central Michigan

North Carolina State over East Carolina

Pitt over Penn State

Michigan over UCF

Cincinnati over Purdue

Houston over Lamar

Rutgers over Howard

Minnesota over Indiana State

Army over Rice

Boston College over UMass

Georgia over Nicholls State

Texas A&M over Prairie View A&M

Wyoming over Nebraska

Florida State over Charleston Southern

Clemson over Troy

Temple over Stony Brook

Georgia State over Air Force

Southern Cal over Utah State

West Virginia over Youngstown State

Ohio over Kansas

Georgia Tech over Mercer

Bowling Green over North Dakota

Navy over Connecticut

Northwestern over Illinois State

Ohio State over Tulsa

Miami (OH) over Eastern Illinois

Duke over Wake Forest

Appalachian State over Old Dominion

Wisconsin over Akron

Nevada over Notre Dame

Alabama over Western Kentucky

Baylor over SMU

Mississippi over Wofford

Indiana over Ball State

Colorado State over Idaho State

Marshall over Morgan State

Elon over Charlotte

Kent State over North Carolina A&T

Miami over Florida Atlantic

Georgia Southern over South Alabama

Louisiana-Lafayette over McNeese State

Oklahoma over Louisiana-Monroe

Vanderbilt over MTSU

Western Michigan over North Carolina Central

Toledo over Maine

South Florida over Northern Illinois

North Texas over Bethune Cookman

Louisiana Tech over South Carolina State

Southern Mississippi over Savannah State

Texas over UTEP

South Carolina over Mississippi State

Auburn over Arkansas State

Iowa over Iowa State

Utah over BYU

Missouri over Eastern Michigan

LSU over Jacksonville State

North Carolina over Illinois

Tulane over Southern

UCLA over UNLV

New Mexico over New Mexico State

Fresno State over Sacramento State

Texas Tech over Arizona State

Boise State over Washington State

San Diego State over Cal

Oregon over Virginia 

Arizona over Grambling State

Hawaii over Tennessee-Martin

Check back at noon for Smith Bros Pick Panel

-Dug

@chansm1th

Week 1 in Review

The first week of college football has come and gone. We have already had our share of surprises and disappointments. Before we get into predictions for the two games tonight, let's take a look back at an exciting first weekend with our Quick Three.

1) Alabama is still the team to beat

Alabama absolutely destroyed Southern Cal on it's way to a 52-6 win to open the season. With the main questions about the Crimson Tide being who will start at quarterback, it was freshman Jalen Hurts who would get the nod. The freshman threw for two touchdowns while running for another pair. The Tide outgained the Trojans to the tune of 465-194. Looking at the scores from the rest of the Top 5, who will be their biggest challenger? Clemson won their road game at Auburn, but only by six. Oklahoma was rolled by Houston in a surprise upset (if you can call it that) in a game of two ranked teams. Florida State outlasted Mississippi on Labor Day behind the phenomenal play of another freshman at quarterback. LSU, predicted to be Alabama's main road block in the west, fell to unranked Wisconsin and has question marks everywhere aside from Leonard Fournette. Maybe another week will give us a better idea. 

2) Welcome back, Nick Chubb

For anyone thinking that Nick Chubb might be a bust because of last year's injury (not I), you might have just been proven wrong with his performance against North Carolina on Saturday. Chubb carried the ball 32 (!) times while rushing for 222 yards and a pair of scores. With this type of performance against a team that some thought would beat them (guilty), you have to believe that he is out of the gate first in the race for the Heisman.

3) Upsets, Upsets, and More

We said that it was a wild weekend, but for some, it is one that they will want to forget quickly. Four teams lost to FCS schools with three of them coming from the Power 5 conferences. In all, seven teams from the major polls were upended. The SEC combined to go 7-7, while the Big Ten and the ACC went 12-2 and 11-3, respectively. Take that how you want, but again, we will have a better idea as the season goes on.

Looking at tonight's games we only have two on the slate. Combined last week, this blog went 66-19 (.776). Take those odds to Vegas!

Maryland over Florida International

Louisville over Syracuse

Be sure to check back tomorrow for game previews, the Smith Bros Pick Panel, and continuing coverage throughout the day. Debuting on Tuesday, we will have the Smith Bros Top 25. No other poll should matter!

-Dug

@chansm1th

First Saturday: Part 2

We're turnt! 

Here are my picks for the second part of the day. Go Cats!

Florida Atlantic over Southern Illinois

Duke over North Carolina Central

East Carolina over Western Carolina

Miami over Florida A&M

Georgia Southern over Savannah State

Troy over Austin Peay

Akron over VMI

Middle Tennessee State over Alabama A&M

North Texas over SMU

San Jose State over Tulsa

South Florida over Towson

Central Florida over South Carolina State

Kansas over Rhode Island

Memphis over Southeast Missouri State

UTSA over Alabama State

Louisiana-Monroe over Southern

Kentucky over Southern Miss (18 points)

Florida over UMass

Alabama over USC

Iowa State over Northern Iowa

Nebraska over Fresno State

Washington State over Eastern Washington

UTEP over New Mexico State

TCU over South Dakota State

Texas Tech over Stephen F Austin

San Diego State ove New Hampshire

Clemson over Auburn (Huge Beating)

Arizona over BYU

Wyoming over Northern Illinois

Arizona State over Northern Arizona

Go Cats!!

Smith Bros Pick Panel

We have surveyed our "experts" and asked them for their picks on the following ten games. Put your picks in the comments should you think you're smarter than us!

Oklahoma vs Houston

Oklahoma: Dug, Alty, Corbeech, Jarred, and Estep
Houston: Pop and Trey


Missouri vs West Virginia

Missouri: Corbeech
West Virginia: Dug, Alty, Jarred, Pop,Trey,  and Estep


/Hawaii vs Michigan

All Take Michigan


Rutgers vs Washington

All Take Washington


UCLA vs Texas A&M

UCLA: Alty
Texas A&M: Dug, Pop, Jarred, Estep,Trey, and Corbeech


LSU vs Wisconsin

All Take LSU


Georgia vs North Carolina

Georgia: Pop and Trey
North Carolina: Dug, Corbeech, Estep, Jarred, and Alty


USC vs Alabama

USC: Jarred
Alabama: Dug, Alty, Corbeech, Jarred, Trey, and Estep


Clemson vs Auburn

All Take Clemson


BYU vs Arizona

BYU: Alty and Pop
Arizona: Dug, Jarred, Estep, Trey, and Corbeech

First Saturday of Football: Part 1

A look at our setup.

Good morning! It is finally Saturday and college football is officially back! Today, we here at Smith Bros will be celebrating with an "all day meet, greet, and eating on the ground"; an all day tailgate if you will. As you can see from the setup, we are ready! We have a lot of action today, so we hope to break it up into two parts with posts throughout the day. Let's get started with three things that you should keep your eye on today.

1. Oklahoma Plays at Houston...Sorta

While it may not be a true home game for the Cougars, they will face off at noon against the Sooners at NRG Stadium in Houston. Most polls have Houston ranked very high while Oklahoma is considered a strong contender or the National Championship. Both teams realize that they have to win the first game if they hope to go undefeated; a goal that could easily be attained by either team. For Houston, they will need all they can get out of last year's AAC MVP Greg Ward Jr. The senior quarterback joined Deshaun Watson as the only quarterbacks to throw for 2,000 yards and rush for another 1,000. For Oklahoma, senior Baker Mayfield must step up and lead his team. Houston has an experienced defensive front that will give Oklahoma fits all afternoon. The team who has the ball last in this high scoring affair will likely be the victor.

Oklahoma 41, Houston 35

2. Can LSU Hit the Ground Running?

LSU returns 18 starters from a team that went 9-3 a year ago. The key piece is Leonard Fournette. Fournette is one of two players who stand out when mentioning Heisman candidates. Last season, he accumulated 1,953 yards and 22 touchdowns. Even more impressive, the Tigers saw their season opener get cancelled. With all these starters returning, expectations in Baton Rouge are through the roof, like always. Their opponent in the Wisconsin Badgers, only return nine starters from a team that went 10-3. With only one senior expected to start in their front seven (Linebacker Vince Biegel), the young Badgers might get more than they have bargained for. 

LSU 31, Wisconsin 10

3. How Well Will Kirby Smart Replace Mark Richt?

The Kirby Smart Era at Georgia will begin with a tough task as his Bulldogs take on North Carolina today in Atlanta. Georgia will welcome back running back Nick Chubb who returns from missing the most of last season with a knee injury. Lining up with him in the backfield will be his replacement from last year, junior Sony Michel. Smart named senior Greyson Lambert his starter this week just ahead of incoming freshman Jacob Eason. The Bulldogs ranked near the bottom of the nation in passing offense last year. That is a category they must improve on this year.

Last year, North Carolina seemingly came out of nowhere. After dropping their opener to South Carolina, they would end up winning their next eleven games before falling to Clemson in the ACC Championship. The Heels return the bulk of their offensive production, and expect a lot out of this team in the upcoming season. Don't be surprised if they challenge Clemson and Florida State for the conference crown.

North Carolina 24, Georgia 20

Other Games:

Navy over Fordham

Purdue over Eastern Kentucky

Ohio State over Bowling Green

Western Michigan over Northwestern

Michigan over Hawaii

Boise over Louisiana-Lafayette

Mississippi State over South Alabama

West Virginia over Missouri

Maryland over Howard

Virginia Tech over Liberty

Pittsburgh over Villanova

Air Force over Abilene Christian

Washington over Rutgers

Texas A&M over UCLA

LSU over Wisconsin

Virginia over Richmond

Penn State over Kent State

Iowa overMiami (OH)

Ohio over Texas State

Illinois over Murray State

Oklahoma State over SE Louisiana

Arkansas over Louisiana Tech

Oregon over UC Davis

-Dug

@chansm1th

Friday Night College Football: Week 1

Friday Night Edition of College Football

Week 1 continues tonight with another slat of games. Two nights of college football to close out the work week? Yes, please! We have 11 games tonight that will feature three teams that are ranked in the preseason Top 25. We also have a special preview for you today. Here is what you should be watching for, and what we think will happen.

1.) Baylor Begins the Post-Art Briles Era

Baylor has made headlines throughout the offseason for all the wrong reasons. Briles was fired in May amidst a massive cover-up of sexual assaults committed by his players. New head coach Jim Grobe will inherit a team that was undoubtedly a favorite to compete for the Big XII title. Now, Baylor just hopes to survive the season. The Bears will open up with FCS opponent Northwestern State. They should resemble a team that their fans are accustomed to seeing over the past few seasons in Waco.

Baylor 61, Northwestern State 6

2.) Is Stanford for Real?

We all know that Christian McCaffrey is a beast. The kid can move the ball in a variety of different ways. But what about the rest of the Cardinal team? Stanford is the preseason favorite in the PAC-12. Most polls have them ranked in the Top 10, but I'm currently not buying. The Cardinal will have to show that they are not just McCaffrey, and will need to find scoring from others. If they can produce elsewhere to offset the run game, they might be that good. Winning the opener (unlike last year) will go a long way for them. Kansas State is projected to finish near the bottom of the Big XII, but are by no means a walk over. Stanford will find out.

Stanford 24, Kansas State 14

3.) Wake Up Early for Football

Bright and early Saturday morning (7:30 AM to be exact), Boston College takes on Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland. Yes, this is a Saturday game. No, most of you will not be awake for it so I will preview it tonight. Both teams were atrocious last year (3-9 each) and will look to start fresh this season as they open outside of the country. Each team appears to be ready to contend for bowl games this season, and a win here is the first step in the right direction. Expect Georgia Tech to pound the ball with their Triple Option offense, while the Eagles' stingy defense will try to stop them. Patrick Towles, graduate transfer from Kentucky, will make his first start as an Eagle as he tries to win the school's first ACC game in 21 months.

Boston College 14, Georgia Tech 10

Other Games Tonight

Eastern Michigan over Mississippi Valley State

Georgia State over Ball State

Buffalo over Albany

Syracuse over Colgate

Temple over Army

Michigan State over Furman

Colorado over Colorado State

Arkansas State over Toledo

Nevada over Cal Poly

-Dug

@chansm1th

And, we’re off! Last night, we had several entertaining games to tie us over until Saturday. We had blowouts, and we had drag outs. Two ranked teams were in action with one displaying power over an inferior opponent while the other showed multiple question marks. A “Way-too-Early” Heisman candidate put up ridiculous numbers in limited action, but it was a place kicker who might have won the night. Before we get into the Friday slate of games, let’s look at what you’re talking about this afternoon.

 

Crisis Averted!

Tennessee came into their opener as a three touchdown favorite, as the announcers kept reminding us. Appalachian State led the entire game until Tennessee scored on a 67-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Later in the period, redshirt freshman kicker Michael Rubino, who had already missed an extra point, sent a 41-yard field goal wide right. The Mountaineers would win the toss before overtime, and elect to go on defense first. From the 3-yard line, Josh Dobbs rolled to his right, leaped, stretched, and took a hard shot at the goal line which in turned caused him to fumble the football forward. Quick thinking on the part of Jalen Hurd, who jumped on the ball, would give Tennessee the score they needed in overtime. App State was ineffective with their turn, and Tennessee’s defense sealed the game, 20-13.

This game will give Tennessee fans fits. It was an obvious letdown for a team that has such high expectations. Luckily for them, they have more than a week to prepare for Virginia Tech when they face the Hokies at Bristol Motor Speedway.

 

Early Heisman Showing

The Fighting Lamar Jacksons defeated lowly Charlotte last night in a rout, 70-14. Jackson only played one half, but in truth, he didn’t need that much time. Jackson completed 17 of his 23 passes for 286 yards while running for another 119. Of the eight touchdowns he was responsible for, six came from his arm while two from his legs. Granted, it was Charlotte playing the Cardinals, but where do we place all of the praise? Is Lamar Jackson that good? Did Bobby Petrino just run it up? Is Charlotte just that bad? Louisville takes the field again next Friday against ACC foe Syracuse. Maybe we’ll have a more clear picture then.

 

Pride of the SEC?

If we’re throwing out Heisman candidates already, what about jumping onto a band wagon? As early as the season is, South Carolina currently holds the path to it's own destiny in the SEC East...along with five other division opponents. However, for this night, the Gamecocks are on top of the standings. In Will Muschamp's return to head coaching, the Gamecocks rallied from being down 10-0 at the half to squeak by the Vanderbilt Commodores by a final of 13-10. The Player of the Game was the senior place kicker Elliot Fry. Fry nailed a 55-yard field goal with 0:35 left that would eventually be the difference. With a road win in the SEC, albeit Vandy, South Carolina will play next week in Starkville against a Mississippi State team they have beaten seven straight times. 

Other Scores from Last Night

Central Michigan 49, Presbyterian 3

Wake Forest 7, Tulane 3

Cincinnati 28, UT-Martin 7

UConn 24, Maine 21

North Carolina State 48, William & Mary 14

Indiana 34, Florida International 13

Utah 24, Southern Utah 0

Utah State 45, Weber State 6

Western Kentucky 46, Rice 14

Minnesota 30, Oregon State 23

New Mexico 48, South Dakota 21

Idaho 20, Montana State 17

UNLV 63, Jackson State 13

-Dug

@chansm1th

Halftime Report

Show Me

Tennessee finds itself trailing 13-3 to Appalachian State at the half. In my earlier post, I demanded that Tennessee show me that they deserved all of the hype that they were being given. Through the first 30 minutes of play, I am disappointed. App State has controlled the momentum since this game kicked off. Tennessee has caught several bad breaks though. On their first full offensive drive of the game, Tennessee had a touchdown overturned when a receiver dropped the ball while going to the ground. Instead of seven points, they settled for three. Not long after, the Vols' defensive leader, Cameron Reeves-Maybin was ejected on a targeting foul when he lowered his head into a Mountaineer who had signaled for a fair catch on a punt. After all of this, Tennessee found itself having the ball with under 5:00 to go in the first half. Josh Dobbs connected on a pass to Josh Smith over the middle for about a 25-yard gain. Dobbs then rushed the offense to the line to set off another play, which they got off. After Hurd's run up the middle, the play before was reviewed and determined that the ball hit the ground before the receiver caught it. Now, I have always been led to believe that if the next play gets off, the previous cannot be reviewed. It would appear that the rules have changed.


Butch Jones better give the speech of his life in the locker room. In most cases, when a team that is favored finds itself behind, they mount a ferocious comeback. From one half of play, I haven't seen an ounce of the type of fight that UT will need. The Mountaineers have a legitimate shot of pulling this off if something doesn't change in a hurry.




Let's take a look at other games going on right now. Early in the third quarter, Louisville leads Charlotte 56-0. Lamar Jackson has had a hand in all eight of Louisville's scores.


Two minutes before halftime, Vanderbilt is ahead of South Carolina 10-0.


7:00 left in the second quarter, Western Kentucky is on top of Rice 30-7.




Check back later for more updates.


-Dug
@chansm1th

College Football Thursday

Finally!!

A new season of college football will kick off tonight. Predictions and talk will now turn into reality as is is time to make the statements on the field. It all begins tonight as we have 16 games on the schedule. Here are three things to watch for, along with predictions for each of tonight's games.

1.) Tennessee Starts the Season with High Expectations

This is by far the most hyped team that Rocky Top has fielded in the last 15 years. Butch Jones might have finally turned the train wreck he inherited into a title contender. Most polls have the Volunteers in their Top 10, and consider them to be the odds on favorite to win the SEC East. Now all they have to do is produce. Too many times has this team been talked up only to under perform. You want me to take you seriously? Show me. Don't overlook Appalachian State though. The Mountaineers like to run and put up a lot of points. If Tennessee does take them seriously, they should win convincingly. If not, State will keep this one close and put a scare into the Tennessee fans. 

Tennessee 38, Appalachian State 24

2.) Vanderbilt/South Carolina will Control the SEC East after Tonight

Scary, isn't it? One of these two teams will be leading the nation's strongest conference, and control their own destiny. Last season, the two combined for a 3-13 record in the SEC. Expectations this year seem to point toward a similar scenario. Take nothing away from either though. THEY WILL BE LEADING THE SEC AFTER TONIGHT! Let the victor have their moment of glory seeing as it will only last for a week as multiple teams open up conference play in Week 2.

Vanderbilt 17, South Carolina 9

3.) Western Kentucky Begins it's Quest for the Top 25

You read that right. The Hilltoppers are a legitimate threat as a mid-major program. Tonight will be the first of their many runovers as I firmly believe they will be ranked this season. WKU is going to win the Conference-USA, and they could very easily only have one loss on the year going into the conference championship game. A year ago, the Hilltoppers averaged 44.3 ppg and 526.4 ypg, both stats good enough to have them in the Top 10 nationally. Their opponent tonight, Rice, ranked near the bottom of the nation in all major defensive categories. Kickoff is at 8 PM, but this one will be over by 8:30.

Western Kentucky 63, Rice 17

Other Games Tonight:

Central Michigan over Presbyterian

Louisville over Charlotte

Wake Forest over Tulane

Cincinnati over UT-Martin

UConn over Maine

North Carolina State over William & Mary

Florida International over Indiana

Utah over Southern Utah

Utah State over Weber State

Minnesota over Oregon State

New Mexico over South Dakota

Idaho over Montana State

UNLV over Jackson State

Check back later for quick reactions to the games. Tomorrow morning, we'll look at where I was wrong. 

-Dug

@chansm1th

College Football Preview

The College Football Season Begins

It is finally here! College football might have already played one game last week, but it officially begins tonight. Aside from Cal and Hawaii, everyone has a fresh slate. The remaining 126 teams are undefeated and begin their quest towards a national championship thus weekend. Below, you will find predictions from our very own "experts". Keep track throughout the season as we each poke fun at the other for stupid choices.

Corbett's Predictions

@corbeech

National Semifinalists

Florida State, Louisiana State, Ohio State, and Oklahoma

Clemson was the better team last year, but they had a massexodus. Florida State gets to host Clemson this year in a game that will serve as a playoff play-in game. The best player in the game will win. Contrary to popular belief, Clemson doesn't have the best player and they're going to take the L in this one. Out of the Big 12, I feel like Oklahoma has the best shot to make it out unscathed. Baker Mayfield has the tools around him to succeed, all he has to do is stick to the plan and the Sooners will do well. Last year's Buckeye team was one game away from a playoff appearance and an opportunity to repeat. They may have addition by subtraction with losing Cardale Jones. Now that J.T. Barrett doesn't have him looming over his shoulder, he'll be able to play loose and have the Buckeyes operating at peak performance. With LSU, it's basically a pick that I think they can beat Bama when Bama comes to them. Alabama doesn't make it every year and with Fournette trying to redeem a TRASH game against them last year and the Tide going to Death Valley, I wouldn't be surprised to see them Les Miles chewing on grass during a playoff game. 

National Champion

Ohio State

J.T. Barrett is back and is not involved in a quarterback controversy. This will spell trouble for the rest of the Big Ten. Big daddy Urbs is going to be back to cocky mode and you can cancel the call to the heart doctor this season. Urban essentially has an SEC team that gets to play in the Big Ten all year. It is a miracle that they ever lose. They may wind up losing at Oklahoma, but I don't think it will matter when they run the Big Ten table. It's becoming the norm that one loss doesn't ruin a team's chances and losing at a top 5 team in September will not do that this year either.

Heisman Winner

Dalvin Cook, Florida State

I am high on the Dalvin Cook hype train. He was my darkhorse for Heisman all last season, but nagging injuries kept him down. He had two carries in one game (one went 94 yards, but he's cool like that) and missed an entire game later in the season. He still ran for 1691 yards and 19 TDs. All of this while averaging over 7 yards per carry. Dalvin is the man and we're all going to be witnesses this season. As previously implied, he is the best player in the Clemson v FSU game that will be coming this Fall. If the team can remember he is there, they'll be just fine vs Clemson.

Three Bold Predictions

1. Baylor will be a playoff contender

I don't think they'll be able to run the table, but they're going to be a strong team, nonetheless. Old Man Briles may be gone, but young blood Briles is still the OC and Seth Russell is still their quarterback. Don't let their scumminess blind you to their abilities. They will be a strong team and I was tempted to take them to the playoff. Couldn't do it, so now they're here.

2. The ACC will have two teams very close to the playoffs 

This isn't that big of a stretch, but I wouldn't be overly surprised if North Carolina is contending for a spot in the playoff and will have their shot in the ACC Championship. They will have a rematch vs Florida State for all of the marbles. The ACC is sneaky good this year and has 3 legitimate title contenders in Clemson, Florida State, and North Carolina. It wouldn’t surprise me too much if two of them made the playoff.

3. Auburn, Ole Miss, and Georgia will get beat down in week one and the national analysts will question if the ACC has surpassed the SEC

This will take place either immediately after the games or by week 2. This narrative takes place every year and the games in week 1 favor the ACC. After the top three ACC teams have good showings and slap around their SEC opponents, the hot takes will be had by all.

Dug's Predictions

@chansm1th

National Semifinalists

Alabama, Florida State, Oklahoma, and Washington

Alabama is always going to be a team that most people will automatically put in the talk for contending in the playoff race. However, they were my last choice of the four. Alabama is like Kentucky in basketball: they always seem to reload and run towards another championship. Florida State's biggest worry is Clemson. Yes, they play Mississippi in the first week, but win or lose, a win against Clemson (and no more surprises) will be just enough for them to get into the playoff. Oklahoma is going to be the best that the Big 12 has to offer. Washington is my dark horse. When you look at what they bring back, and their schedule, they are a sexy pick coming out of the PAC-12.

National Champion

Oklahoma

It is finally time for Bob Stoops to win another National Championship. The Sooners have been close a few times, but they haven't been able to cash in since winning their last title in 2000, but this might finally be their year. 

Heisman Trophy

Nick Chubb, Georgia

Who can forget the gruesome injury that Chubb suffered last year? Well we're about to. Step aside Leonard Fournette! Nick Chubb is taking your place as the best back in the SEC, along with the Heisman Trophy they are already trying to give you.

Three Bold Predictions

1. This is Gus Malzahn's last season coaching Auburn

Auburn will go 6-6 at best with a 3-5 conference record in the SEC. Do not be surprised if they find themselves needing a win on November 26 when they go to Tuscaloosa. This team could end up 4-8 if things really fall apart.

2. Neither Ohio State nor Michigan will make the Big Ten Championship

Both teams are entering the season in everyone's Top 10 and also lead a lot of the playoff contention talk. Ohio State only returns six starters from a year  ago, yet some people have them in talks for the National Championship. How? Michigan is in year two of the Jim Harbaugh Era after opening it with a 10-3 record. This sechedule does not bode well for them. They go on the road to face Michigan State, Iowa, and Ohio State. The team in the East Division to keep an eye on will be Michigan State.

3. Charlie Strong will keep his job after winning 10 games this season.

In year three, Charlie Strong might have the hottest seat among FBS teams. With an 11-14 record in his first two seasons, it is time to go all out. Texas opens the season with Notre Dame coming to Austin. After last year's embarrassing defeat to the Irish, don't sleep on the Longhorns to make some noise in this matchup. The rest of the schedule is pretty favorable. They draw both Baylor and TCU at home. A loss to Oklahoma and one of the other two will have the fans praising Charlie Strong as his team competes for a spot in the playoff while staying inside the Top 15 throughout the season.

Eric's Predictions

@ericaltenhof

When you walk outside in September and take a deep breath, there's something a little more crisp in the air that lets you know football is here.

And, as certain as week 1 in the college season, there are post season predictions that are sure to be wrong. Here's my predictions that I'll dismiss if wrong, but rub in your face if I'm right.

National Semifinalists

Clemson, LSU, Ohio State, and Oklahoma

I think this is the year LSU climbs up and beats Alabama. The Crimson Tide lose some at QB, and at the time of this writing, are down to a RS Freshman in Blake Barnett and a RS Junior in Cooper Bateman. (Secretly hoping Cooper wins, Cooper is badass name).

The Big 12 doesn't have a true contender to fight off Oklahoma, and neither does Clemson. Florida State will put up a fight, but Clemson is too good right now with DeShaun Watson.

At this point, Michigan is overrated. Maybe they aren't at week 4, but at this point they are. Ohio State gets the Wolverines at home with JT Barrett at QB. I'll take the Buckeyes in that matchup that completely chooses who gets into the playoff.

Again, The Pac-12 will be left out of the College Football Playoff, but I think in the next few years, this will change. The conference is close, but still not enough talent to have any team go 12-0 or 11-1.

National Champion

Clemson

I went back and forth on which would I wanted to for this. I think Clemson comes in as the #1 seed, LSU #2, Oklahoma #3, and Ohio State getting the #4. ESPN will spin the story of REMEMBER LAST TIME OHIO STATE WAS A 4 SEED!!!!!!! But don't sit on that too long, Clemson wins that. This Clemson Oklahoma game was great in the 1st round of the playoffs last year and I only expect more fireworks. But, in the end, Clemson and Dabo Sweeney win the Championship, and I start to wonder why I didn't pick Watson as my Heisman winner.

Heisman Trophy

 Leonard Fournette, LSU

I know McCaffrey is fantastic, but I don't think there is a better offensive football player in the country than Fournette. He's huge, fast, and plays on a team that could challenge for a National Championship. Fournette has a better team around him this year, with a quarterback that's expected to perform at a competent level. There's nothing spectacular I can say about Fournette that hasn't been said, but just watching him play makes fans hold their breath. He may be one of the only players that could take the ball from anywhere on the field and find that end zone.
I really hope Fournette wins it over DeShaun Watson. Nothing against Watson, truly talented, I'm just a Fournette fan.

Three Bold Predictions

1. The Pac-12's best team will have 3 losses

There is a lot of parity in the Pac-12 and that will show in the upcoming season. USC, Arizona, Arizona State, Stanford, and UCLA all have depleted rosters after the NFL Draft, and they will beat up on each other.

2. Georgia Bulldogs win 10 games this season

If they can get by North Carolina and Tennessee the Bulldogs can do it. The SEC East is so lackluster this year, and their SEC West teams are Auburn and Ole Miss. The other 3 non-conference games: Nicolls, Louisiana-Lafayette, and Georgia Tech.

3. USC wins the PAC-12

Coming in at +550 odds to win the championship (tied for 4th behind Stanford, UCLA, and Washington, tied with Oregon). The Trojans have talent, loads of talent, and play in a conference that I think will beat themselves up. The division winner could come down to a tie breaker that I think the Trojans will have.

 

Trey's Predictions
@Tampa_Trey

National Semifinalists

Alabama, Florida State, Ohio State, and TCU

Alabama will just edge Tennessee in the SEC title game for a playoff birth.

Until I see Oklahoma take care of their business when they're expected to, unlike losing to a lowly Texas in 2015, I can't pick them to make it to the playoff. I believe TCU will put an end to the playoff snubbing this year. 

It will come down to Ohio St vs Michigan to decide the Big 10's playoff berth. The winner of that game will win the conference title game en route to the playoff.

Florida St will just edge Clemson and ride that victory to the playoff. I can't say much for a team that allows a guy who beats women (allegedly Kappa) to play without consequence so there you go. 

National Champions

Alabama

Nick Saban is still the difference. That was apparent in last season's title game when he simply out coached Dabo Swinney in the 4th quarter. Until Saban is out coached himself, the story of the season will be who can beat Bama?

Heisman winner

Deshaun Watson, Clemson

There doesn't appear to be much competition for Watson this year after he was barely outvoted by Derrick Henry for last years Heisman trophy. Stanford will need to go undefeated for Christian McCaffery to make a case but that's likely not happening. 

Three bold predictions

1. Houston will upset Oklahoma in the season opener

As I said before Oklahoma needs to take care of its business when they're expected to. This is no exception. Although Houston is a good team they are still Houston and Oklahoma should win this. I believe they will not. 

2. Ole Miss will finish in the bottom half of the SEC West

Despite the lofty expectations and the talent there is a massive black cloud looming over Oxford as Hugh Freeze is likely not to last long at Ole Miss with multiple major NCAA violations ready to be levied on him. Fans are no doubt in deep thought on what the future holds for Ole Miss and this is sure to bring many distractions to the team. 

3. Kentucky will make it to a bowl this year

It's crunch time for Mark Stoops. After two very optimistic years at UK season three was disheartening as the Wildcats lost six of their last seven games to miss out on what was expecting to be a sure-fire bowl bid. However I believe Stoops is still the man to bring Kentucky back to SEC East contention. It won't be this year but the Cats will pull out a few unexpected victories to go bowling.



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