Posts Tagged ‘West Virginia Mountaineers’

February 18th, 2011 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Matchup: St. John's Red Storm @ Pittsburgh Panthers
Date: Saturday, February 19th, 12:00 ET
Location: Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Game Line: Pittsburgh -3.5
Over/Under 133

The Johnnies have had a history of slaying some real giants here at Madison Square Garden, and if they can pull this one off on Saturday afternoon, they'll surely be dancing regardless of what happens for the rest of the year. However, history really doesn't bode well in this one for the hosts. Pittsburgh has won and covered five in a row in this series. The two trips to MSG before that in 2005 and 2006 did end with St. John's upsets, but that doesn't mean that this is going to be the case again today. U-Pitt just doesn't have an immediate history of tripping up on the road, posting wins against the Villanova Wildcats and West Virginia Mountaineers there in recent weeks. Sure, St. John's now has two road wins after beating both the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Marquette Golden Eagles away from MSG over the course of the last few weeks, but that doesn't mean that Head Coach Steve Lavin's team is really ready for this challenge. You can bet that the Panthers have been watching intently as teams like the Duke Blue Devils and UConn Huskies have come in here and pulled off upsets. The oddsmakers are sure to not give us a break for backing the Red Storm, so we'll have no choice but to pull the trigger on the Panthers and hope that Brad Wanamaker can carry us to another victory since Ashton Gibbs is out of the lineup with an MCL sprain.

Free College Basketball Picks: Pittsburgh Panthers

Matchup: Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ West Virginia Mountaineers
Date: Saturday, February 19th, 1:00 ET
Location: WVU Coliseum, Morgantown, WV
Game Line: West Virginia -4
Over/Under 130

Home teams have had a fantastic history in this series, winning seven straight outright and nine out of the last 10 meetings dating back to 2004. Notre Dame has had a bit of a history of falling flat in games like this one, getting dropped by the St. John's Red Storm and the Marquette Golden Eagles on the road. Of course, since that point, the Irish are 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS, and they are now in serious contention for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. The 'Neers are coming off of a horrifying loss to the Syracuse Orange, their second straight road game in which they scored in the low 50s in points. However, one thing is for sure, and that's that Head Coach Bob Huggins isn't going to let Notre Dame drop three pointers all over the place on them, as demonstrated by last year's 53-51 win at Madison Square Garden in the Big East Tournament. WVU has a great team that matches up well with this Notre Dame squad, and the hosts badly need one more feather in their cap for the March Madness run. Don't be shocked if they get that feather on Saturday.

Free NCAA Basketball Picks: West Virginia Mountaineers

Matchup: Washington Huskies @ Arizona Wildcats
Date: Saturday, February 19th, 6:00 ET
Location: McKale Center, Tucson, AZ
Game Line: Arizona -2.5
Over/Under 157.5

If the Huskies are going to add a big time road win to their resume for the NCAA Tournament, this is where they're going to have to get it. Unfortunately, history really isn't on their side, as the home team is 6-2 ATS over the course of the last eight meetings, and the U of A will be a decided favorite on the college basketball odds. Washington was absolutely dreadful on the road on a trip that include a stop against the Washington State Cougars and two against the Oregon schools, going 0-3 SU and ATS even though it was a heavy favorite in all three games. Playing at home is just a different story. Arizona is playing significantly better ball right now, and it really should show up on the scoreboard on Saturday. The Cats would have no problem if they made it that they were the only Pac-10 team that got a bid to the NCAA Tournament, and if that happens to be the case, they could turn out to be a legitimate favorite to win the whole enchilada.

College Basketball Free Picks: Arizona Wildcats

Matchup: Utah State Aggies @ St. Mary's Gaels
Date: Saturday, February 19th, 9:00 ET
Location: McKeon Pavilion, Moraga, CA
Game Line: St. Mary's -4
Over/Under 136

Believe it or not, this BracketBusters showdown is the only battle of the entire day that pits a pair of teams ranked in the Top 25 against each other. The winner of this game is likely to keep their spot in the Top 25, though if the winner is St. Mary's, both might fall out. The Gaels have had a miserable week leading up to this point, as they were beaten down by the San Diego Toreros on Wednesday night in one of the biggest upsets of the entire season. This was a team that really should have been manhandled, and in the long run, if the Gaels don't end up making the NCAA Tournament, they can look back and shake their head at that loss as 17 point favorites to a team that won't finish with a Top 200 RPI ranking. Utah State suffered a similar loss two weeks ago against the Idaho Vandals, and this is their only chance to pick up an RPI Top 100 victory this entire season. They know that they aren't likely to get accepted to the dance in spite of the fact that they would have 27 wins under their belt without this win, and even then, the only sure route is going to be winning the WAC Tournament. This game means worlds more to Utah State than it does to St. Mary's, and we tend to believe that that will show on Saturday night. Will the Aggies pull off the upset? Probably not. But that doesn't mean they won't stick inside the number.

NCAA Basketball Free Picks: Utah State Aggies

Matchup: Texas A&M Aggies @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Date: Saturday, February 19th, 9:00 ET
Location: Gallagher IBA Arena, Stillwater, OK
Game Line: Oklahoma State -2
Over/Under 127

It's a big, big day for the Pokes, as they really need this one to at least feel like they're on the right side of the NCAA Tournament bubble at the moment. They've dropped five of their last seven and seven of their last 10, but the good news is that the only home loss in this run has come to one of the best teams in the country, the Texas Longhorns. However, there's a point that we have to wonder whether this team is any good or not. After all, the Aggies slammed Okie State 71-48 back on January 12th in one of the worst beat downs of the season. The Cowboys were held to just 16-of-46 shooting from the field, and no one scored more than 11 points. The bench was kept incredibly quiet as well, so there were just no sparks that were able to fly. The scarier part about that win? Khris Middleton only had nine points and only took eight shots. Don't be surprised if the second verse goes the same as the first in this one, as the superior Aggies should be able to come into Stillwater and walk out victorious.

College Basketball Expert Picks: Texas A&M Aggies

 
December 27th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor
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The ACC and Big East will send representatives to the Champs Sports Bowl on Tuesday night in the Sunshine State, as the NC State Wolfpack will duke it out with the West Virginia Mountaineers. Which way will this one go? Check out our Champs Sports Bowl picks for December 28th!

Champs Sports Bowl Matchup: West Virginia Mountaineers vs. NC State Wolfpack
Date: Tuesday, December 28th, 6:30 ET
Location: Florida Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL
Champs Sports Bowl Line: West Virginia -2.5
Over/Under 48.5

Mountaineers Notes: The Mountaineers were up and down all season long, and though they were probably the best team in the Big East this year in terms of talent, they lost some key games that cost them a chance to play in the BCS once again. West Virginia had one of the best defenses in the country, ranking No. 2 in total defense, rush defense, and scoring defense. This was the only team in the land that held every single opponent to 21 points or fewer on the campaign. On the other side of the ball, the offense has really struggled. NCAA football betting fans have really gotten accustomed to the play of those streaking offenses led by QB Pat White and his immediate successors, where points were scored in bunches. Instead, this year, West Virginia has really slowed things down, largely due to the fact that QB Geno Smith is more of a pocket passer than those in the past. Smith was really expected to struggle as a passer, but that really hasn't been the case this year. He threw for 2,567 yards and 23 TDs, and he only threw six picks in the entire 12 game run. He really got a great contribution this year from WR Tavon Austin. The frosh caught 53 passes for 757 yards and eight scores. The two men that really let this offense down this year were RB Noel Devine and WR Jock Sanders. Sanders has only caught 64 passes for 670 yards and four TDs, and he only had 75 yards and a score on the ground. He has really grown accustomed to taking the ball on the ground and in the air a ton of times per game, but he just hasn't had those explosive games like over the course of the last few seasons. Devine was supposed to contend for a Heisman Trophy this year and was seemingly a lock to rush for at least 1,500 yards and average over six yards per carry. However, running for 886 yards and six TDs seems like a waste for a man that really could be one of the most explosive in college football.

Wolfpack Notes: NC State really had a chance to go to the ACC Championship Game for the first time in team history, but it squandered the chance with two bad losses at the end of the campaign. This was a significantly different team from that of West Virginia, as this was an offense that really had to pick up the slack for a defense that was questionable at times. When push came to shove, this unit did only allow 334.4 yards per game, ranking No. 30 in major college football, and conceding 22.5 points per game was one of the better marks in the ACC. However, giving up a total of 63 points over the course of the last two games of the season really proved to be fatal for a team that didn't play well outside of Raleigh. QB Russell Wilson set a record as a freshman for the most consecutive passes without a pick, but he was terrible at times this year, throwing 14 INTs. Now a junior, Wilson threw for 3,288 yards and 26 scores on the campaign, and he also added nine scores on the ground. He was the real MVP of the team, handling the football over 600 times on the season, and there is no doubt that he will have at least 40 touches in the Champs Sports Bowl. His top target was WR Owen Spencer this year, who caught 57 passes for 868 yards and four scores. However, there was no receiver that had more TD receptions this year. RB Mustafa Greene needs to get something done on the ground to keep this offense well balanced. He rumbled for just 584 yards in his freshman campaign and scored just four times on the ground.

The Final Word: The Wolfpack just don't have enough horses on offense to keep up with a team that was really well balanced for most of the year, especially on defense. Don't be shocked if the Mountaineers frustrate the heck out of Wilson and force him into some turnovers, and if that's the case, NC State won't find a way to beat the NCAA football lines in this one.

Champs Sports Bowl Free Pick: West Virginia -2.5
Champs Sports Bowl Prediction: West Virginia 23 – NC State 19

 
November 25th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Matchup: Louisville Cardinals at Rutgers Scarlett Knights
Date: Friday, November 26th, 11:00 ET
Location: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, NJ
Game Line: Louisville -3.5
Over/Under 48

Two teams fighting for bowl eligibility square off Friday morning in Piscataway when the 5-6 Louisville Cardinals take on the 4-6 Scarlett Knights. First-year HC Charlie Strong has rejuvenated a Louisville program that was moribund under Steve Kragthorpe, although the record may not not say as much. Of Louisville's six losses, only one has been by more than one score and the Cardinals have been giving teams a game effort. On Saturday, the Cardinals played a slugfest of a game against Big East Rival West Virginia, giving the Mountaineers all they could handle in a 17-10 loss. Louisville's defense held West Virginia to just 261 total yards and sensational RB Noel Devine to only manage 58 yards on the day. QB Justin Burke got the start in place of the injured Adam Froman and had trouble moving the ball, completing just 50% of his passes 145 yards and an interception on the afternoon. Froman looks like he will get the start on Friday, but don't be surprised if Burke is the quarterback. Meanwhile, Rutgers continues to struggle, having lost four straight with only one conference win on their resume. Against Cincinnati, the story was the Scarlett Knights' inability to stop Cincinnati's offense through the duration of game. The Bearcats racked up an incredible 661 total yards on HQ Greg Schiano's squad in their 68-39 route of the Scarlett Knights. QB Chas Dodd had one of his best days on offense for the Scarlett Knights, completing 19 of 20 passes for 335 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions in the loss. WR Mark Harrison was the primary target of Dodd and had the game of a lifetime for Rutgers, catching 10 passes for 240 yards and four touchdowns on the afternoon.

Free College Football Picks: Louisville -3
Prediction: Louisville 21 – Rutgers 13

Matchup: West Virginia Mountaineers @ Pittsburgh Panthers
Date: Friday, November 26th, 12:00 ET
Location: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Game Line: Pittsburgh -3
Over/Under 39

The Backyard Brawl will go a long way in determining the Big East title on Friday afternoon when 6-4 Pittsburgh Panthers host the 7-3 West Virginia Mountaineers. On Saturday, Pittsburgh gutted out a tough 17-10 road win over the South Florida Bulls. QB Tino Sunseri didn't put up dazzling numbers for the Panthers, but was good enough to get Pitt the win. Sunseri completed 11 of 16 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown in the Panthers' victory. RB Dion Louis also helped contribute to the win by carrying the ball 22 times for 105 yards and a touchdown. PItt's defense was once again stout, holding USF to less than 300 yards. Meanwhile, the Mountaineers scored a close victory themselves, a much needed 17-10 win over Louisville that stops WVU's recent skid. West Virginia's offense was held in check throughout the game by Louisville with QB Geno Smith only completing 9 of 20 passes for 133 yards rushing for just 20 yards on 11 carries without notching a touchdown. RB Noel Devine struggled as well, rushing for only 58 yards and touchdown on 23 carries. West Virginia's defense won them the game this afternoon, holding Louisville's offense to a scant 171 total yards.

Free College Football Picks: Pittsburgh -3
Prediction: Pittsburgh 20 – West Virginia 14

Matchup: Auburn Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Date: Friday, November 26th, 2:30 ET
Location: Bryant Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL
Game Line: Alabama -4.5
Over/Under 58

The most anticipated regular season game of the year will take place Friday afternoon in the great state of Alabama when the 9-2 Alabama Crimson Tide take on the 11-0 Auburn Tigers. Although there is a whirlwind swirling around the possible ineligibility of Tigers' QB Cameron Newton, the Tigers are poised to make their first ever BCS Title Game if they can defeat arch-rival Alabama on Friday. Under the tutelage of OC Gus Malzahn, Newton has established himself as the best player in all of college football and would be the overwhelming favorite to win the Heisman Trophy if not for the eligibility concern. The last time college football betting enthusiasts saw Auburn was two weeks ago when the Tigers defeated the Georgia Bulldogs 49-31. Georgia gave Auburn all they could handle for three quarters before the tigers put them away in the fourth. Newton once again put together a fantastic game, completing 12 of 15 passes for 148 yards with two touchdowns and an interception while also carrying the ball 30 times for 151 yards and two touchdowns. Defensive guru Nick Saban will look to do what no other team has done this season in shutting down Newton. Alabama has had virtually two weeks to prepare for Auburn after walking through the motions in a 63-7 win over FCS Georgia State last Thursday night. Alabama's starters only played the first half and put up the numbers you'd expect in scoring 42 first half points. QB Greg McElroy completed 12 of 13 passes for 159 yards and two touchdowns. RB Mark Ingram carried the ball 12 times for 86 yards and a score and WR Julio Jones caught seven passes for 86 yards and two TDs in the blowout win.

Free College Football Picks: Alabama -4.5
Prediction: Alabama 38 – Auburn 28

Matchup: Colorado Buffaloes @ Nebraska Cornhuskers
Date: Friday, November 26th, 3:30 ET
Location: Memorial Stadium, Lincoln, NE
Game Line: Nebraska -16.5
Over/Under 50.5

The 9-2 Nebraska Cornhuskers will look to keep their hopes for a BCS at-large bid alive on Friday afternoon when they host the 5-6 Colorado Buffaloes for possibly the last time. The meeting will be bittersweet as there are no plans for the two to continue to play each other after Nebraska moves to the Big 10 next season. Nebraska will look to score a win in their last regular season Big 12 game after falling 9-6 to Texas A&M last week. The Cornhuskers have been the center of controversy during the week after reports that QB Taylor Martinez had quit the team and that DC Carl Pelini had shoved a photographer on the field after the game was over. The hopes of Nebraska's offense rest on Martinez and the status of his ankle as the offense doesn't click unless Martinez is under center. Against the Aggies last week, Martinez was banged up most of the game and put up one of his worst games of the season, completing just 11 of 17 passes for 107 yards and an interception and only managing 17 yards rushing on 11 carries. As for Colorado, the Buffaloes have won back-to-back games since the firing of former HC Dan Hawkins. Colorado got big gains from QB Cody Hawkins and RB Rodney Stewart to top Kansas State 44-36. Hawkins completed 14 or 25 passes for 202 yards and three touchdowns while Stewart rushed for 195 yards and two touchdowns while also throwing a 23 yard touchdown pass.

Free College Football Picks: Colorado +16.5
Prediction: Nebraska 24 – Colorado 14

Matchup: Arizona Wildcats @ Oregon Ducks
Date: Friday, November 26th, 7:00 ET
Location: Autzen Stadium, Eugene, OR
Game Line: Oregon -19
Over/Under 62

The 10-0 Oregon Ducks will aim to keep their undefeated season and BCS Title Game berth alive Friday night when they host the 7-3 Arizona Wildcats. College football bettors last saw Oregon two weeks ago when the Ducks squeaked out a narrow 15-13 win over the California Golden Bears. Oregon's offense had their least effective performance of the season in Berkeley, managing just 317 total yards against Cal. QB Darrin Thomas completed 15 of 29 passes for 155 yards and a score in the win, while Heisman Trophy contender LaMichael James could only muster 102 yards on 31 touches. Oregon's previously maligned defense came up huge for the Ducks in the victory, holding Cal to just 193 total yards of offense and completely shutting down the Cal passing attack, with Cal QB Brock Mansion mustering just 69 yards passing on 10 of 28 completions. An Oregon win against Arizona also clinches the Ducks at least the Pac-10 Title and an appearance in the Rose Bowl.

Free College Football Picks: Oregon -19
Prediction: Oregon 51 – Arizona 20

Matchup: Boise State Broncos @ Nevada Wolf Pack
Date: Friday, November 26th, 10:15 ET
Location: Mackay Stadium, Reno, NV
Game Line: Boise State -14
Over/Under 67.5

With a win against the 10-1 Nevada Wolfpack on Friday night, the 10-0 Boise State Broncos will clinch the WAC Title and be one step closer to a potential BCS Title Game bid. QB Kellen Moore is a darkhorse to win the Heisman, but has put up some of the best numbers in the country despite being pulled early in many of his conference games. Last week in their 51-0 drubbing of Fresno State, Moore completed 27 of 38 passes for 333 yards and four touchdowns against one interception. Moore's favorite two target's were again the dynamic duo of WR Austin Pettis and WR Titus Young. Pettis hauled in 10 passes 93 yards and two scores on the evening while Young caught eight balls for 164 yards and two touchdowns. As for Nevada, the Wolfpack has given Boise State all it can handle in their games over the past few seasons. Nevada is led by QB Colin Kaepernick who completed 15 of 27 passes for 251 yards and two touchdowns last week against New Mexico State. Kaepernick also added 35 yards rushing and a touchdown on the day. RB Vai Taua carried the ball 22 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns and also caught a 79 yard touchdown pass in the 52-6 victory over the Aggies.

Free College Football Picks: Nevada +14
Prediction: Boise State 38 – Nevada 34

 
October 26th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Matchup: West Virginia Mountaineers @ Connecticut Huskies
Date: Friday, October 29th, 8:00 ET
Location: Rentschler Field, Storrs, CT
Game Line: West Virginia -6.5
Over/Under 46

Big East rivals clash on Friday night when the 5-2 West Virginia Mountaineers take on the 3-4 Connecticut Huskies. Last Saturday, Syracuse pulled off a huge upset and knocked off West Virginia 19-14 on the Mountaineers’ home turf. QB Geno Smith couldn’t get the job done on offense, mustering just 178 passing yards on 20 of 37 passing and threw three interceptions compared to one touchdown. RB Noel Devine did a good job on the ground, carrying the ball 24 times for 122 yards, but it was not enough to get Bill Stewart and the Mountaineers the win. On the defensive side of the ball, the Mountaineers held Cuse to just 246 total yards of offense but could not pull out the victory. As for Connecticut, the Huskies will look to Mike Box to lead the way instead of Zach Frazer. Frazer has received the lion’s share of the snaps, while Box is relatively inexperienced. However, HC Randy Edsall likes what Box brings to the table and will give the redshirt freshman his second straight start. Against Louisville last week, Box completed four of 12 passes for 35 yards and an interception while carrying the ball five times for 22 yards. RB Jordan Todman will receive a steady dose of carries to try to ease the pressure off of Box, but must improve on his 80 yard performance from last weekend. UConn will also need to muster more than 200 yards of offense and limit their turnovers against a game WVU squad.

Free College Football Picks: West Virginia -6.5
Prediction: West Virginia 27 Connecticut 14

 
October 22nd, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Matchup: Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Navy Midshipmen
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 12:00 ET
Location: New Meadowlands Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Game Line: Notre Dame -6.5
Over/Under 49.5

The Middies are still struggling, though they're finding ways to scratch wins together of late. The Irish, on the other hand, have been dominating games lately, going 1-0-2 ATS and 3-0 SU in their L/3. QB Dayne Crist hasn't missed a beat without TE Kyle Rudolph in the lineup, and the offense blew up last week for 44 points in spite of the fact that WR Theo Riddick was largely missing in action. WR Michael Floyd is going to be the most dangerous weapon on the field for the Middies to try to defend. This is a game that is historically owned by the Fighting Irish, though Navy has taken the L/2 meetings in South Bend. You have to go back five decades to find the last victory that didn't occur in front of the watchful eyes of Touchdown Jesus, though. This will be a legitimate neutral site game, which probably favors the Fighting Irish just a tad. Go with the Golden Domers to take care of this one on the "road," as it appears as though HC Brian Kelly finally has enough going to get a real winning streak in the works.

Free College Football Picks: Notre Dame -6.5
Prediction: Notre Dame 27 – Navy 19

Matchup: Syracuse Orange @ West Virginia Mountaineers
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 12:00 ET
Location: Mountaineer Field, Morgantown, WV
Game Line: West Virginia -13.5
Over/Under 43.5

Don't let the 4-2 mark beside the name "Syracuse" fool you. Instead, remember that this program is still just that… "Syracuse." The Orange probably aren't going bowling this year, though in the pathetic Big East, you never really know what's going to happen from Saturday to Saturday. However, one thing that we do know is that West Virginia is the only team in this conference that would stand a chance of even remotely competing in the other divisions in college football. WVU is clearly head and shoulders the better team here, and QB Geno Smith and one of the best defenses in the country is probably going to prove it. The 'Neers are 7-2 ATS in their L/9 against the Orange, and in spite of the fact that those two duds came in the L/2 meetings in Morgantown, we aren't afraid of just a two score NCAA football spread.

Free College Football Picks: West Virginia -13.5
Prediction: West Virginia 31 – Syracuse 10

Matchup: Purdue Boilermakers @ Ohio State Buckeyes
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 12:00 ET
Location: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH
Game Line: Ohio State -24
Over/Under 47.5

The Buckeyes have quite a lot to be angry about in this game. They lost last week to the Wisconsin Badgers in a game in which they were totally dominated until about halftime when they decided to finally wake up and play some football. HC Jim Tressel can also point to the fact that this is one of the last Big Ten teams standing without a conference loss. Oh yes, this was also the same Purdue team that spoiled any hopes of OSU winning the National Championship last year… You think this one is going to be ugly? The Boilers have just had the Buckeyes' numbers in recent years, as they have pulled some upsets and done a lot of good work against the college football odds as well. However, this one just won't be the same. Without QB Robert Marve and RB Ralph Bolden in the fold, Purdue is just dead in the water. There's no semblance of an offense that can do any sort of damage against this potent 'D' that has to still be angry about the huge number that Wisky dropped on the board last weekend in Camp Randall. In the end, too much QB Terrelle Pryor, too much OSU defense, and not nearly enough Purdue offense. This should be a laugher.

Free College Football Picks: Ohio State -24
Prediction: Ohio State 41 – Purdue 6

Matchup: Michigan State Spartans @ Northwestern Wildcats
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 12:00 ET
Location: Ryan Field, Evanston, IN
Game Line: Michigan State -6
Over/Under 53

Northwestern was upset by the Purdue Boilermakers last week at home in what clearly amounted to be the worst game of the season. The Cats were scratched in a big way, but they are clearly rabid right now. Remember that this was the same team that ended the perfect campaign of the Iowa Hawkeyes last season. Michigan State needs to watch out and watch out in a big time way. The rush defense for the Wildcats is going to be tested by RBs Edwin Baker and Le'Veon Bell. We're not so sure that QB Dan Persa really has what it takes to beat this team, but this is a passing attack that ranks No. 20 in the nation against one of the country's worst secondaries. At some point, Sparty is going to get picked off, and it might get picked off a few times. This could just be the beginning of the end.

Free College Football Picks: Northwestern +6
Prediction: Northwestern 26 – Michigan State 24

Matchup: Mississippi Rebels @ Arkansas Razorbacks
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 12:20 ET
Location: Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville, AR
Game Line: Arkansas -9.5
Over/Under 58

Last week, we warned that this Ole Miss team was good enough to pull some big time upsets, even in the SEC West this year, and we at least got a close game against the Alabama Crimson Tide to show for it. QB Jeremiah Masoli has all the talent in the world, and if the defense for the Rebs can start to show up like it has in recent weeks, this could be a very interesting ball game. Who knows how much QB Ryan Mallett is going to be affected by that concussion he suffered last weekend? One thing we do know is that the running quarterback, QB Cameron Newton, absolutely destroyed this defense for the Hogs. Masoli is built in the exact same mold, and he just had to be loving watching that game tape this week. Arkansas can be had. This is a team that might just be poised to fall flat. If the Rebs want to go bowling this year, this is the type of game that they are going to have to win at some point. There's no better time that the present to pick of a wounded Arkansas team that has played in three straight very tight ball games against good teams and could really use a breather. They're not getting one.

Free College Football Picks: Ole Miss +9.5
Prediction: Mississippi 41 – Arkansas 31

Matchup: Wisconsin Badgers @ Iowa Hawkeyes
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 ET
Location: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, IA
Game Line: Iowa -6
Over/Under 48

If you look up the definition of an awful scheduling spot, you're going to see Bucky the Badger's face plastered right there in the dictionary. Wisconsin is just in so much trouble in this game, it's not even funny. This team is clearly high on life after beating the Ohio State Buckeyes last week at home. Fantastic. Now, the test is certainly more difficult. The Hawkeyes might not only be just as good, if not better than the Buckeyes, but they are also going to be playing at home as well. Iowa has absolutely owned the Badgers in recent years, and we don't expect that to change any. HC Kirk Ferentz really used last year's win at Camp Randall as the boosting point for the fantastic season that ended with an Orange Bowl victory. This could be the start of a National Championship run if the Hawkeyes get some lucky bounces from other teams along the way. There's too much on the line for Iowa to get beaten at home. This game will look a lot like the game against the hapless Penn State Nittany Lions for Iowa.

Free College Football Picks: Iowa -6
Prediction: Iowa 30 – Wisconsin 10

Matchup: Kansas State Wildcats @ Baylor Bears
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 ET
Location: Floyd Casey Stadium, Waco, TX
Game Line: Baylor -6.5
Over/Under 56.5

Would you even imagine that Baylor would be favored over Kansas State by basically a full touchdown in a game? All of a sudden the Bears, the program that became the whipping boy for so many other teams in the Big XII over the years, have figured out how to make the most out of their QB Robert Griffin. This offense is absolutely tearing through teams this season. K-State is a very one dimensional team, as it is RB Daniel Thomas or bust. If that doesn't work, its defense is going to be in a ton of trouble. You'd better believe that this game is the equivalent of the Super Bowl in Waco, as a win for the Bears would ensure a bowl game for the first time in eons. Remember, this team has won games this year 34-3, 34-6, and 55-7 at home and hasn't played any other games there… Yet, it is still 5-2 on the season. You'd better believe that the crowd will be out in full force. The Wildcats won't know what hit them in this one, as this could be on the more entertaining displays to watch on Saturday.

Free College Football Picks: Baylor -6.5
Prediction: Baylor 34 – Kansas State 17

Matchup: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ Clemson Tigers
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 ET
Location: Clemson Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC
Game Line: Clemson -5.5
Over/Under 52

Death Valley is a horrifying place for opponents to go into, as it is one of the loudest venues in the nation. However, we still just aren't so sold on QB Kyle Parker and the men in orange. Georgia Tech hasn't really had much in the way of success defensively this season, but that doesn't mean that it can't muster up just a tad in this one. QB Josh Nesbitt's triple option attack absolutely blew up this Clemson defense last year twice, and if Nesbitt can get out in some open space, he can really hush the crowd in Death Valley once, and potentially for all. The Ramblin' Wreck have something to prove with the ACC Coastal Division title once again within reach. Winning out will take care of that. For Clemson, the only goal is a bowl game. The wrong team is favored in this one.

Free College Football Picks: Georgia Tech +5.5
Prediction: Georgia Tech 28 – Clemson 20

Matchup: LSU Tigers @ Auburn Tigers
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 ET
Location: Jordan Hare Stadium, Auburn, AL
Game Line: Auburn -5.5
Over/Under 51.5

We've already discussed this game just a tad, and we are going dig just a bit deeper right now. The Bayou Bengals have all of the tools that it takes to stop this Auburn offense, so the only question in our mind on this side of the ball is whether the combined rushing force of RB Michael Dyer, RB Onterio McCalebb, and QB Cam Newton is going to be able to do enough to penetrate this defense. So far, no one has really been tremendously successful. If you take away one bad quarter, the LSU defense has looked phenomenal, even on the road against the Florida Gators. Last week, know that Auburn's secondary got exposed by a backup quarterback, and if that's the case, perhaps the combination of QB Jarret Lee and QB Jordon Jefferson actually has a chance of making some headway. We'll say this… If the LSU offense can get anywhere near the 30 point barrier, this game is as good as over. HC Les Miles and his team know what it takes to win big games like this one. HC Gene Chizik and his Tigers aren't anywhere near that level yet. One of these teams is a legitimate contender for the National Championship. The other one, we believe to be fool's gold.

Free College Football Picks: LSU +5.5
Prediction: LSU 27 – Auburn 21

Matchup: Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 ET
Location: Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK
Game Line: Nebraska -6
Over/Under 60

If the Pokes find a way to really start torching the Nebraska defense, this could be one heck of a rodeo in Stillwater. Nebraska has the offensive weapons to get through a defense that really hasn't had much success stopping anyone this year. You can bet that QB Taylor Martinez is going to want to make amends for failing last week against the Texas Longhorns. This is also a very, very dangerous game for the Huskers because a second loss in Big XII play parlayed with a win by the Missouri Tigers over the Oklahoma Sooners later that night takes the Big XII North race out of their hands. They'll need the 'Zou to come back to the pack to be able to head back to the Big XII Championship for another go around. The matchup to watch is the hookup of QB Brandon Weeden to WR Justin Blackmon against the Nebraska defense. Blackmon might be the best receiver in college football, and he certainly has the stats that back that claim up. If he gets going, watch out! This should be a great one, but we tend to think that there's too much defense for Big Red to get beaten here even though Stillwater is one hellacious place to go place college football.

Free College Football Picks: Oklahoma State +6
Prediction: Nebraska 34 – Oklahoma State 31

 
October 13th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Matchup: Kansas State Wildcats @ Kansas Jayhawks
Date: Thursday, October 14th, 7:30 ET
Location: University of Kansas Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, KS
Game Line: Kansas St -2.5
Over/Under 50.5

The Sunflower State Showdown lacks a little of the luster seen in previous years, but that doesn’t mean the in-state rivalry between the 2-3 Kansas Jayhawks and the 4-1 Kansas St Wildcats will mean any less to the teams involved Thursday night. To say that first year head coach Turner Gill has gotten off to a rocky start with the Jayhawks is a bit of an understatement. Kansas opened their season with a humiliating 6-3 loss against FCS North Dakota State and was blown out by the Baylor Bears two weeks ago in Waco. The 55-7 win that the Bears recorded was the biggest conference win in Baylor history, and it completely dominated the Jayhawks from start to finish. The Jayhawks allowed an eye-popping 678 total yards while their offense could only muster 270 total yards and turned the ball over four times against the Bears. Needless to say, the Jayhawks will need a much better performance in order to beat the Wildcats. Kansas State is coming off an embarrassing outing itself, falling 48-13 to Nebraska in Manhattan last Thursday night on HC Bill Snyder’s birthday nonetheless. The Wildcats defense allowed the Nebraska offense to rush for 451 yards and gave up over 10 yards per play to the Cornhuskers. In particular, Nebraska QB Taylor Martinez was allowed to run wild, carrying the ball 15 times for 241 yards and four touchdowns. For the Wildcats, RB Darren Thomas was completely shut down by the Huskers’ defense despite coming into the game as one of the leading rushers in the country. Thomas carried the ball 22 times for 63 yards and will need to have a better game against the Jayhawks as the Wildcat offense runs through him.

Free College Football Picks: Kansas +2.5
Prediction: Kansas 24 Kansas St 21
Matchup: South Florida Bulls @ #25 West Virginia Mountaineers
Date: Thursday, October 14th, 7:45 ET
Location: Milan Puskar Stadium, Morgantown, WV
Game Line: West Virginia -10.5
Over/Under 43

West Virginia kicks off Big East play Thursday night when they host the South Florida Bulls at Mountaineer Field. The Mountaineers are 4-1 with their only loss being at the hands of undefeated LSU in Death Valley and look to be the class of the Big East this season. Last Saturday against the UNLV Rebels, the Mountaineers put together their most dominant performance of the season, scoring a huge 49-10 victory to get back into the Top 25. RB Noel Devine was battling a toe injury and only carried the ball three times, but racked up 84 yards and two touchdowns in limited action in the victory. QB Geno Smith also had a fantastic day for West Virginia, throwing for 220 yards and three touchdowns in the win. HC Bill Stewart’s defense has also been stellar this year, allowing just 255 yards per game and seven touchdowns in five games in 2010. As for South Florida, HC Skip Holtz has gotten off to a less than stellar start in his first year on the job, losing both games against BCS conference opponents while only mustering wins against two Sun Belt conference teams and an FCS team. Last week against Syracuse, the Bulls put together a pitiful performance at home in a 13-9 loss. QB BJ Daniels was downright dreadful, completing just 9 of 23 passes for 124 yards and two interceptions while being sacked four times. The South Florida offense as a whole was only able to muster 219 yards against the typically porous Orange defense and the USF defense allowed over 300 yards of offense to a Cuse offense which is typically pitiful in conference play. If the Bulls hope to come out of Morgantown with a win on Thursday, Daniels will need to outperform Smith and limit his turnovers.

Free College Football Picks: West Virginia -10.5
Prediction: West Virginia 29 South Florida 10

 
September 24th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Oklahoma Sooners (-13.5) @ Cincinnati Bearcats
Saturday, September 25th
6:00 ET, Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH

The Sooners are simply the better team in this game, but that doesn't always mean a cover against the college football spreads. The Bearcats have been brutal this season and they have been incredibly unlucky as well. Losing WR Vidal Hazelton to injury is something that just won't be overcome easily. QB Zach Collaros can put points on the board in bunches when he has the help, but he just doesn't have that help anymore. Oklahoma has been playing at the level of its opponents all season long, as demonstrated by the close calls against Air Force and Utah State and the domination of Florida State. Will this defense be able to pick up the intensity in the team's first road game of the year? HC Bob Stoops had better hope so. We look for good things from QB Landry Jones, WR Ryan Broyles, and RB DeMarco Murray on Saturday night, which should lead to an NCAA football betting victory by a comfortable margin.

Prediction: Oklahoma 38 – Cincinnati 13

Nevada Wolfpack (-4.5) @ BYU Cougars
Saturday, September 25th
6:00 ET, Lavell Edwards Family Stadium, Provo, UT

If BYU is legitimately one of the best mid-major programs in the country, this game should be a snap at home against one of the other best mid-major programs in the country. However, we're not so sold on the Cougs yet. True freshman QB Jake Heaps might be phenomenal in the future, but he isn't now. He is only completing 50.0 percent of his passes and really has yet to have a truly good game. There's a reason that BYU is only averaging 15.7 points per game this year. As for Nevada, it is averaging somewhere around 15.7 points per QUARTER. There is no stopping this team right now, as the Pistol attack is putting together well over 500 yards per game of offense and has averaged over 50 points per game. QB Colin Kaepernick showed the whole world last week that he was a stud in a nationally televised duel against Cal at home. Now, he'll prove that he's that much better than the Cougs are in a romp in Provo.

Prediction: Nevada 48 – BYU 20

Kentucky Wildcats @ Florida Gators (-14)
Saturday, September 25th
7:00 ET, Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Gainesville, FL

The Gators have never really had any trouble disposing of the Wildcats, so we're trying to figure out why the oddsmakers are wondering whether they're going to have some issues at home on Saturday night. Kentucky might be a 3-0 team, but playing teams like Western Kentucky and Akron aren't going to win over many votes in the polls. This is the big leagues now that the Wildcats are about to enter into. UF fought off a stingy Tennessee team last weekend in a win that was a lot better than we probably give it credit for. The Gators might not look their best yet, but they are only going to get better and have surprisingly covered back to back games. QB Jeff Brantley is familiar with this UK squad, as this was the team he ran up against last year when QB Tim Tebow was injured. That was on the road and he did just fine. At Florida Field, this won't be an issue.

Prediction: Florida 41 – Kentucky 14

South Carolina Gamecocks (+3) @ Auburn Tigers
Saturday, September 25th
7:45 ET, Jordan Hare Stadium, Auburn, AL

The Gamecocks badly need to prove that they are legitimate contenders in the SEC East, and this game could be the absolutely perfect way to do just that. They are going to be going on the road to try to take out an Auburn team that is red hot as well and looking to make a statement of its own. However, we tend to like the Ol' Ball Coach in this one, as HC Steve Spurrier knows exactly how the game of QB Cam Newton works; after all, he coached up his brother, Syvelle for four years in Columbia. This was the recruit that South Carolina missed out on, and the Gamecocks would love nothing more than to punish Newton and wreck his Heisman Trophy campaign in one swoop. The oddsmakers know that this game is going to be a close call, which is why SC is only a pup by three points. We don't think the Cocks need it. They'll take this one outright against a bunch of Tigers that are due to be tamed after playing a very weak schedule to start the year.

Prediction: South Carolina 24 – Auburn 21

Oregon State Beavers @ Boise State Broncos (-18)
Saturday, September 25th
8:00 ET, Bronco Stadium, Boise, ID

The Broncos have simply demolished opponents that dare step foot on the Smurf Turf. Oregon State has done in three times, and three times, it has left with its tails between its legs .This version of the Broncos is better than any other that that OSU team has ever seen, and at least so far this year, we aren't certain that this is the best bunch of Beavers we've ever laid eyes upon. The Rodgers brothers, Jacquizz and James, just haven't produced enough offense this year, and a lot of that is probably due to the fact that QB Andy Katz just hasn't really produced at the same level of QB Sean Canfield from years past. This isn't a good time to be asking questions, now is it? The Broncos know exactly what they are doing, and they're coming off of a big time beat down on the road of a Wyoming Cowboys team that is still probably going to be good enough to go bowling this year. It just means more to Boise to win this game and win it with a statement than it does for Oregon State, and the end result is going to be exactly what we expect. It's going to be any blue field beat down.

Prediction: Boise State 52 – Oregon State 27

West Virginia Mountaineers (+10) @ LSU Tigers
Saturday, September 25th
9:00 ET, Tigers Stadium, Baton Rouge, LA

We must be out of our minds to think that the Mountaineers can play their first major road game of the year in the Bayou at night and tame the Tigers, right? We just don't believe in LSU this year. QB Jordon Jefferson should be a backup at a middle of the road FBS conference school, not a starter here in big boy college football, and the rest of this offense, save RB Steven Ridley, is questionable at best. The defense is strong for HC Les Miles, but games against a depleted North Carolina Tar Heels squad and two of the worst teams in the SEC (Mississippi State Bulldogs and Vanderbilt Commodores) just doesn't say anything to us. What does speak to us is the fact that the 'Neers have shown some grit this year. The Maryland Terrapins were at the top of their game when they came to Morgantown last week, and WVU sent them packing. The Marshall Thundering Herd gave everything to the blue and gold they had, but that ultimately wasn't enough either. This is a team that just finds ways to win games. QB Geno Smith could surprise everyone in the nation, and maybe some of his teammates as well, by proving that he is good enough to go out and win this game outright. This is going to be the most unlikely upset of the day in the NCAA football betting world.

Prediction: West Virginia 26 – LSU Tigers 20

California Golden Bears (+6.5) @ Arizona Wildcats
Saturday, September 25th
10:00 ET, Arizona Stadium, Tucson, AZ

It's all about perception, my friends. If the Wildcats don't get that last touchdown against the Iowa Hawkeyes last week, they probably lose that game and are favored by just 3-4 points instead of 6.5 in this one. If the California Golden Bears go into Reno and take out a very underrated Nevada Wolfpack team last week, there is probably also a 2-3 point swing in the NCAA football lines. However, nothing has really changed with these squads. Arizona is still very good, while Cal is still a legitimate contender for the Pac-10 title as well. This is a winnable fixture for the Golden Bears. QB Kevin Riley has played well this year and has thrown for 732 yards. He's going to be able to bring over some magic to the desert on Saturday night and help lead Cal to what maybe should be a relatively predictable upset over an Arizona team that has to be full of itself after last week's triumph. The Cats get caught napping and get nipped for the first time on Saturday.

Prediction: California 34 – Arizona 28

Oregon Ducks (-11.5) @ Arizona State Sun Devils
Saturday, September 25th
10:30 ET, Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe, AZ

There is some more perception here that could be implied incorrectly. Arizona State is getting a lot of respect after nearly going into Camp Randall and upsetting the Wisconsin Badgers last week. Wisky hasn't looked that great this year though, and we still can't base what ASU has accomplished off of a pair of FCS wins and one close call against an opponent that very well could be overrated. What we do know in this game is that the Ducks are as good as it gets in the country. Sure, there are going to be games where the U of O could get challenged and perhaps even picked off. However, this isn't one of those games. This is the first time that HC Chip Kelly gets to bring the Quack Attack on the road this year, and with the running of RB LaMichael James, QB Steven Threet and company just won't be able to keep up. It might be interesting for a little while, but when push comes to shove, these two teams don't belong on the same field.

Prediction: Oregon 44 – Arizona State 20

 
September 23rd, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor
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Here at Cappers Info, we are taking a weekly look at the teams that could be ones ripe to pull off some major upsets! Check out the potentially ugly dogs that could come up and bite you in the butt in you aren't careful for the Week 4 of college football betting action!

SMU Mustangs (+700 at Diamond Sportsbook) vs. TCU Horned Frogs, Friday 8:00 ET: It's not often that we think that a team that is a 17.5 point underdog can reasonably win a game outright, but SMU really has a chance in this one. The passing assault with QB Kyle Padron is good enough to lead the Mustangs to victory over almost any team in the country, anywhere. The key though is that this one is going to be played at home, not on the road, and we've already seen just how dangerous the 'Stangs can be there when they nearly toppled Texas Tech the day before Labor Day. TCU is good… In fact, TCU is great. However, the Horned Frogs are walking into what might be a very, very dangerous trap this week. HC Gary Patterson knows that there are some strong competitors waiting to make names for themselves and the HC June Jones on the other sideline is a natural at pulling off upsets like this to ruin a team's season.

Arkansas Razorbacks (+230 at Diamond Sportsbook) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide, Saturday, 3:30 ET: Sure, we realize that everyone and their brother is calling this upset and that picking against the No. 1 team in the land, a team that hasn't lost a game since the 2009 Sugar Bowl probably isn't all that wise, but we are going to go there anyway. QB Ryan Mallett has a chance not just to become the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, but we think he can legitimately win it going away with a big performance this weekend. And why not? This is the first legitimate test to an Alabama defense which has lost ten of its 11 starters from a year ago and will be tested for the first time against some big time competition. We know that HC Nick Saban isn't one to worry about the road ahead, but if we're members of the Crimson Tide, we're sitting there wondering how we're going to get through a schedule ahead that features games against Arkansas, Florida, Tennessee, and South Carolina. Just getting through the first of the four games is going to be a major, major hassle.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (+170 at Diamond Sportsbook) vs. Stanford Cardinal, Saturday, 3:30 ET: We're continuing with the theme of the home dogs in this one. We've discussed time and time again and prospects of perception in NCAA football betting. The perception on Notre Dame isn't great. The Irish are just 1-2 this season and just barely covered their first spread of the season last week in spite of the fact that it took a fluke, trick play in overtime to beat them in East Lansing. Meanwhile, perception on Stanford is great. The Cardinal are in the Top 25 and just came off of a huge beat down against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. The problem is that Stanford really isn't this good and Notre Dame isn't this bad. QB Dayne Crist might be the better signal caller of the two in this game, even though we do love QB Andrew Luck. This is a long, long road trip for the Cardinal, and the last time they won in South Bend in a number of seasons, and there doesn't seem to be a good reason to make them such a big favorite in this game. This is a tremendous price on the Irish.

West Virginia Mountaineers (+250 at Diamond Sportsbook) @ LSU Tigers, Saturday, 9:00 ET: Are we certifiably insane to pick against the LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge at night? West Virginia is a stronger team than it is letting on to at this point, and though QB Geno Smith really hasn't come forth with a huge outing on the road yet this year, this is a grand opportunity. We hate the Tigers this year and we know that the offense isn't going to be able to get through this defense for enough points to beat this type of a number if the Mountaineers end up scoring some points. Don't be shocked to see this game turn out to be a big, big upset that spoils the SEC and gives a huge boost to a Big East conference that is considered the weakest of the BCS conferences in the country.

 
September 17th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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Arkansas Razorbacks @ Georgia Bulldogs (-2.5)
Saturday, September 18th
12:00 ET, Sanford Stadium, Athens, GA

Last week, UGA was in the familiar position of being a road team that was an underdog to an unranked home team. That always seems like a recipe for disaster for the ranked foe. Is this week an exception? The roles are reversed now, as Georgia seems to be the team in control while playing Between the Hedges. One thing is for certain, and that's that it is going to take a big, big effort to stop QB Ryan Mallett and the Arkansas offense. The Hogs have accounted for well over 350 passing yards per game in their first two efforts, and it is going to be up to Georgia to figure out how to stop it. The running game must be key for the Dawgs in this one, as it will both key HC Bobby Petrino's team off the field and could help take the pressure off of freshman QB Aaron Murray. Go with HC Mark Richt to figure it out and put his Bulldogs back in the win column and potentially back in the Top 25.

Prediction: Georgia 27 – Arkansas 24

Maryland Terrapins (+10.5) @ West Virginia Mountaineers
Saturday, September 18th
12:00 ET, Mountaineer Field, Morgantown, WV

Until QB Geno Smith really takes this team over and gets this Mountaineers offense rolling, we are going to remain skeptical of WVU. Simply put, the 'Neers haven't been that impressive this year, particularly in their overtime escape from the Marshall Thundering Herd last week. Now, a game Terrapins squad comes to Morgantown full of confidence from a good upset at the Navy Midshipmen and a rock solid 62-3 win over the Morgan State Bears. The offense knows it can roll. The defense knows it can stop opponents. The question is whether it can all come together again. This two QB system is going to be a nightmare to try to stop for the Mountaineers' 'D', especially when QB Jamarr Robinson hits the outside with his legs. There are three legitimate rushing threats in this game for the Terps. However, when push comes to shove, the best option is going to be RB Noel Devine. As long as West Virginia doesn't get away from Devine, it should find a way to win this game, but it is going to be touch and go throughout just like the OT win last week.

Prediction: West Virginia 24 – Maryland 16

Kent State Golden Flashes (+21) @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Saturday, September 18th
12:00 ET, Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA

Happy Valley should be rocking and rolling on Saturday afternoon for the visit from the Kent State Golden Flashes. HC Joe Paterno's crew probably can't really hold its head high after getting rocked by the Alabama Crimson Tide last week, but we know that there is better for this team on the horizon. Our questions actually don't resolve around the offense, because we are convinced that QB Robert Bolden is going to make some plays and make some mistakes. The question is whether the defense can keep the Flashes in single digits in scoring or not. We tend to believe not. Kent State's QB Spencer Keith is good enough to bring his team into the end zone at least twice, and if that's the case, a defense that has been stingy this year should be able to find a way to keep a true frosh from putting up enough points to cover this lofty NCAA football spread.

Prediction: Penn State 31 – Kent State 14

East Carolina Pirates @ Virginia Tech Hokies (-20.5)
Saturday, September 18th
1:30 ET, Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA

Are we certifiably insane to want to back a team that has already been beaten twice this year, once by an FCS foe? The truth of the matter is that the Hokies are significantly better than they have played so far this year. The James Madison Dukes snuck up on them and caught them napping for about 15 minutes of football, and it ultimately bit them in the rear to the point that they will not stand a chance of winning the National Championship anymore. However, head coach Frank Beamer is one of the best in the nation. He also has certainly been telling his boys all week just how dangerous this ECU squad is; after all, the Pirates did beat the Hokies two years ago and nearly beat them in the first game back after the shootings in Blacksburg four years ago. ECU has played above itself this year, and QB Dominique Davis probably isn't all that great. An angry bunch of Hokies should come into this one motivated, and we'd be very, very surprised to see either side of the ball really struggle in what should be a very easy victory.

Prediction: Virginia Tech 38 – East Carolina 7

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Duke Blue Devils (+24.5)
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Wallace Wade Stadium, Durham, NC

The Crimson Tide take to the road for the first time this year in what should amount to be a relatively easy home game against the Duke Blue Devils. However, let's not discount the fact that this really could be the best offensive team that the defending national champs have seen this year. That's right. We said it. Duke might have a better offense than the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Blue Devils are led by QB Sean Renfree, who has reached the 350+ yard passing mark in both of his games this year. Though we are certain that he won't reach that plateau once again on Saturday, even throwing for 250 should be able to put a few points on the board. RB Mark Ingram is back, which is probably going to put a tad extra weight on the running game for Alabama. Will that translate into a four TD victory? We tend to believe not. HC David Cutcliffe has the Dookies playing about as well right now as they have played in the last 20 years. They're going to win a game like this at some point. This won't be the one, but even staying remotely competitive and making the Tide play the full 60 minutes is a legitimate possibility.

Prediction: Alabama 41 – Duke 24

Nebraska Cornhuskers (-3.5) @ Washington Huskies
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Husky Field, Seattle, WA

Let's get two things straight right away. First off, the Huskies' loss to the BYU Cougars two weeks ago might ultimately look like a very bad one really soon, as the Cougs could very well by a five or a six loss team this year. Secondly, had U-Dub not beaten the USC Trojans last year almost to the date of this kickoff, it wouldn't be anything less than a seven point pup on Saturday. That being said, we know that Nebraska really hasn't played anyone yet this year and hasn't been challenged. We also know that the Huskers haven't played up to their potential, particularly on defense. The Huskies just aren't up to the level of a Top 25 team yet, and though this is a prototypical spot where the underdog feels like it should be the right play due to the fact that this line looks square, we still aren't buying into it. If backing Nebraska makes us donks, then donks we are.

Prediction: Nebraska 27 – Washington 10

Florida Gators @ Tennessee Volunteers (+14)
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, TN

Rocky Top, you'll always be home sweet home to the Volunteers. Tennessee just hasn't played all that well at home over the last four seasons or so, but all of those bitter memories could be erased if the Florida Gators had a big, fat 'L' stamped on their foreheads at the end of the night on Saturday. The Vols are going to need to play the defense of their lives to keep down a Florida offense that has struggled all season long. Without WR/RB Chris Rainey in the lineup, the only real man to fear is RB Jeff Demps. UT has the speed to settle him down, but at any point, Rainey could still go off for 70 yards. It's also going to take a Herculean effort from QB Matt Simms, who will be playing in his first big game of his career. Last week's loss to Oregon needs to be nothing more than a bad memory that is in the past for HC Derek Dooley's boys. Don't be shocked if there is a big time upset on Rocky Top on Saturday afternoon in what should be a very close game the whole way.

Prediction: Tennessee 21 – Florida 20

Arizona State Sun Devils @ Wisconsin Badgers (-12.5)
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Camp Randall, Madison, WI

Start jumping up and down, Wisconsin fans! Your team is about set to open up its first can of whoop butt on the season. The Badgers are just too strong offensively for the Sun Devils to keep up, even if they are without the services of WR Nick Toon on Saturday. QB Scott Tolzein has really yet to put forth a good effort this year, especially considering the level of opposition that has been faced. The relatively close call against the San Jose State Spartans should provide a wakeup call for Wisky, which really thinks it has a chance to win the National Championship this season. Arizona State is the weakest 2-0 team in the country having beat up on a pair of FCS nobodies to start the season. The Sun Devils are going to be getting a very, very cruel reality check on Saturday that they still aren't going to be a bowl team this year, even if QB Steven Threet has the game of his life.

Prediction: Wisconsin 45 – Arizona State 20

USC Trojans (-11.5) @ Minnesota Golden Gophers
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Mall of America Field, Minneapolis, MN

The Golden Gophers could have realistically been looking an 0-3 start in the face had it lost to the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders two weeks ago. That game against MTSU should have never been close without QB Dwight Dasher in the lineup, and the proof of just how bad this team is came last week in an embarrassing 41-38 loss to the South Dakota Coyotes of the FCS. We already know that Minnesota's offense isn't good enough to play with the best defenses in America, and USC, at least talent wise could fit the bill. The offense for the Trojans should be to at least match what the Coyotes did last week, right? We know that things have gone well for the Men of Troy this year in spite of the fact that they are indeed 2-0 on the season, but they are going to be able to stomp Minnesota by at least two TDs on Saturday afternoon.

Prediction: USC 41 – Minnesota 21

BYU Cougars @ Florida State Seminoles (-10)
Saturday, September 18th
3:30 ET, Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL

If HC Jimbo Fisher knows what's good for him, he is going to have his Noles ready to come out and stomp the living heck out of the Cougars. Fisher absolutely cannot afford a home loss in this spot just one week after getting beaten by 30 (and it wasn't that close) by the Oklahoma Sooners. A comfortable win can give the garnet and gold nation the feeling that the loss to OU was at least to one of the best teams in the country. A loss to BYU would erase the memories of that good first win against the Samford Bulldogs, as everyone would say that it was just one win against a lousy FCS team. For BYU, a lot is riding on the line as well, as one good performance against a questionable Washington team and a bad performance at a solid Air Force team can get magnified with a defeat. Things can spin out of control in a hurry for the Cougs with another loss, as everyone in the MWC is going to want to keep them down in their last year in the conference. The Seminoles have the goods to dominate this game, just as they did last year in Provo. Expect a very similar outing, especially with BYU now playing with a true freshman at quarterback for at least half the game.

Prediction: Florida State 33 – BYU 17

 
September 9th, 2010 By Andrew "Mr. Multi-Task" Ryan - Cappersinfo Contributor

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#22 West Virginia Mountaineers – 13 @ Marshall Thundering Herd
Friday, September 10th
7:00 ET, Joan C. Edwards Stadium, Huntington, WV

Marshall got off to a rough start to their season as the sacrificial lamb to an Ohio State team that will contend for a national title in 2010. The Thundering Herd managed less than 200 total yards of offense against the Buckeyes and their only score was a blocked field goal return for a touchdown in the first quarter. Marshall couldn’t move the ball through the air (155 yards on 35 passing attempts) or on the ground (44 yards on 21 carries). Marshall doesn’t catch a break either, battling tough in-state rival West Virginia. Last week, QB Geno Smith and the Mountaineers looked dominant in their 31-0 win against FBS Coastal Carolina. Smith completed 20 of 27 passes for 216 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in his first season as a starter. Superstar RB Noel Devine also put together a nice game, carrying the ball 23 times for 111 yards and a touchdown. Expect West Virginia to make short work of Marshall behind the legs of Devine on Friday.

Prediction: West Virginia 34 Marshall 10

UTEP Miners +20 @ Houston Cougars
Thursday, September 9th
10:15 ET, Robertson Stadium , Houston, TX

Heisman Trophy candidate QB Case Keenum got off to a fast start this college football betting season against lowly Texas State. Keenum completed 77% of his passes for 274 yards and five touchdowns against two interceptions in his quest to become the NCAA’s all-time leading passer. Keenum and back-up QB Cotton Turner did a good job in getting everybody involved as 10 Cougars caught a pass over the course of the game. UTEP received much more of a challenge against their FBS cupcake Arkansas-Pine Bluff. In their game, the Miners only had a four point lead at half, but pushed the game out of reach in the third quarter thanks to the rushing combination of Joe Banyard and Vernon Frazier. For the game, the two running backs combined to carry the ball 25 times for 183 yards and four touchdowns. Although Houston should certainly come out of this game with a victory, expect the Miners to keep it within the number.

Prediction: Houston 38 – UTEP 28