Every week I will pick at least 5 games to predict the outcome/score. I plan on picking the Georgia Tech and Florida State games every week as well as a couple other big games featuring Top 25 teams. Like most pick-em articles, I will also have a Upset Special. Without further ado, here are the picks for Week 1 (there aren't a lot of good games in Week 1):
South Carolina State at Georgia Tech- I normally wouldn't pick a game this one-sided, but I plan on picking every Tech game. Tech should get the triple option running early and often in this one. The biggest questions is how long will the starters play and whether or not the Tech back-ups will look good in their extended time. Josh Nesbitt, Anthony Allen, and company should roll up a whole lot of yards before halftime in this one. Georgia Tech 48, South Carolina State 14
Samford at Florida State- Like the Tech game, this game will be very one-sided. There are two big things FSU can take away from this warm-up. The first is to launch Christian Ponder's Heisman campaign. Big numbers do wonders for a candidate's chances and this game is an excellent opportunity to rack up some huge numbers. The second is to test run Mark Stoop's new defense before next week's showdown in Norman versus the Sooners of Oklahoma. It should be much improved from last year. Florida State 56, Samford 7
Oregon State vs. TCU (in JerryWorld)- I really like Oregon State and want to pick them to do well this year. However, TCU is one of the toughest teams in the country, especially in what is basically a home game for them. I really respect Mike Riley for scheduling such a tough first game, but Oregon State has a history of starting their seasons slowly. Still, this game should be a great match-up between Quizz Rodgers and the stifling TCU defense. TCU 17, Oregon State 14
LSU vs. North Carolina (in Atlanta)-When this game was first scheduled, I thought it would be a great opportunity for the ACC to regain some respect with a Tar Heels win. In light of the recent investigation, UNC may be missing close to 10 players, including some big time stars. LSU is overrated going into this season, but they should be able to handle a skeleton North Carolina team. Unforunatley for the ACC, the SEC will continue their Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic dominance. LSU 27, UNC 17
Upset Special: Boise State vs. Virginia Tech (in Washington DC)- This pick isn't a true upset special but it is the closest thing I've got. Even though Boise St. is ranked in the Top 5, most people don't really believe they can compete with the big boys. Not only will Boise beat Virginia Tech, they should handle them easily. Boise is one of the most talented teams in the country (returning 20 of 22 starters) and Virginia Tech has a long history of starting slowly, especially in big games. The Broncos national title drive starts in DC on Labor Day. Boise State 26, Virginia Tech 13
Here are my fearless picks for the games of the week.
ReplyDeleteSC State @ Georgia Tech - Paul Johnson has a reputation for trying new things against lesser opponents while not running up the score. Expect several passes from Nesbitt and maybe even some shotgun formations (WHAAAA). This game could easily get out of hand in a hurry, but expect lots of playing time from backups and underclassmen. Jackets: 38, SC State: 7
Samford @ Florida State - This game actually features two teams once coached by the great Bobby Bowden. Expect the Noles to roll and show the world that they are "back"... against the small baptist school from Alabama. Seminoles: 58, Bulldogs: 10
Texas Christian vs. Oregon State: By far, the most underrated coach in the country is Mike Riley at OSU (and he's my best friend's 1st cousin!). By returning 24/30 letter winners on defense, and a home field advantage in Arlington, the Frogs should roll (Sorry Rob!).
Horned Frogs: 24, Oregon State: 9
Louisiana State v. North Carolina in Atlanta - What had the makings to be a great statement game for the Tar Heel program and the ACC has turned into a cloudy muck of uncertainty. Carolina's defense was the only thing that made this game worth watching, but theres been addded pressure on their offense to keep up with Tigers. I want to say that this game will be close, but my gut is already wrenching from hearing The Golden Band from Tigerland's "Tiger Rag". Bayou Bengals roll... Tigers: 29, Tar Heels: 10
Virginia Tech v. Boise State - This is the biggest game in the country this weekend and probably will become the game of the decade for the Broncos. This is Boise's year, returning 21/22 starters, national clout to contend for a title... this very will could be the year if things get off on the right track against the Hokies. That's a big IF. Expect VT, the crowd @ FedEx Field, and the pressures of a BCS bowl-esk atmosphere to get to apply just enough pressure to rattle the Broncos. Hokies: 22, Broncos: 19
No explanations, but here are your final scores--
ReplyDeleteGT 40 SCSt. 13
Samford 3 FSU 47
TCU 24 OSU 21
LSU-35 UNC-14
VT--30 BSU 24