Here's what going on this week in the world of ACC/SEC College Football.
IN THE ACC
Duke (4-6, 1-5 in the ACC) at Virginia Tech (6-4, 3-3 in the ACC)
David Cutcliffe and the fading Blue Devils have about lost all of the tines on the pitchfork this year, but they've got two chances left to get to bowl-land - and they gotta win both of 'em. Well, it ain't gonna happen. Frank Beamer and the Hokies are average this year, but average will be much better than Duke on Saturday. Tech...big.
Rod's Reject - Duke
Boston College (7-3, 3-3) at Wake Forest (6-4, 4-3)
This week's contestants in the Who Wants To Win The ACC wheel of fortune sees the Birds from Boston College flying south to Winston-Salem to try to spook Jim Grobe and the Preachermen. The Deacons will try to defend the home turf and I ain't sure Boston College will have the gumption to do much about it.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Boston College
North Carolina State (4-6, 2-4) at #22 North Carolina (7-3, 3-3)
Tom O'Brien and the Wild Dawgs head into Chapel Hill for a High Noon showdown - and the Wolkpack will try to take a big bite out of the Blue Billy Behind. But Butch Davis knows this is a big game and the Tar Heels will be on full alert for a Wild Dawg attack. This one is much closer than any Tar Heel wants it to be.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Florida State (7-3, 4-3) at #25 Maryland (7-3, 4-2)
You could say this is an elimination game for the ACC Atlantic as Bobby Bowden and the Seminoles invade Terp-ville and try to climb the ladder to ACC stardom. Ralph Friedgen and the Ground Crawlers will prove to be a tough shell to crack, but that ain't gonna stop the Tribe from trying. Never figured out Maryland all year - don't see why this week will be any different.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
IN THE SEC
The Citadel (4-7, 2-6 in Southern Conference) at #4 Florida (9-1, 7-1 in the SEC)
Urban Meyer and the Gators are claws and teeth above everybody else in the Southeast right now, and things ain't gonna change Saturday at the Swamp when the Charleston Bullies come to the Sunshine State for a nice paycheck - and a little bit of a whoopin'. Wish it would be different, but it ain't gonna be. The Bulldogs go to the Swamp with good intentions - and that will about be all the good that comes out of this one for 'em.
Rod's Reject - The Citadel
Tennessee (3-7, 1-5) at Vanderbilt (6-4, 4-3)
Phil Fulmer and the Volunteers have two weeks of football left and would like to go out with a bang. But that's gonna be real tough for the Knoxville Knockers after trippin' up most of the season. Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers ain't in much better shape, though, as they have lost 4 out of their last 5 games (though the win last week got them bowl eligible for the first time since I was in the 11th grade (geez I'm gettin' old). At this point in the season, you look at records - they tell the story for the most part. Usually, come November, the better teams win the games. So it will be Saturday in Nashville.
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
Arkansas (4-6, 1-5) at Mississippi State (3-7, 1-5)
See above - usually in November, the teams with the better records win. Ooops, may not work in this case. Bobby Petrino and the Wild Hawgs tumble into Starkville for an afternoon brawl with Sylvester Croom's Bullies. What comes out of that tussle is anybody's guess. Watchin' both of these offenses and defenses will be gist like watchin' molasses flow - but their fans love them anyway. I gotta think the Hawgs have got enough offense to eek this one out.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Mississippi (6-4, 3-3) at LSU (7-3, 3-3)
Houston Nutt and the Rebels will be in full upset mode when they hit the Louisiana border today, and Les Miles and the Bayou Bengals better be on full alert. These are the kinds of games where Houston puts together a perfect gameplan, but that might not be enough Saturday. LSU has its own problems (too many interceptions, for one) and that will be a key stat in this game. If LSU protects the ball, they will win. That's a big if.
Rod's Reject - in a tight one - Mississippi
THE BIG TWO
South Carolina - idle - next week at Clemson
Clemson (5-5, 3-4) at Virginia (5-5, 3-3)
Showdown in Charlottesville for both of these teams as bowl hopes still hang in the balance for the Tigers and the Cavaliers. Dabo Swinney and the Pickens County Cats are on the prowl and head into the Virginia game with some new-found offense (e.g., CJ Spiller is now being used more) and I'm not sure the Sword Toters will have a lot of answers for that. Al Groh and his band of Ship Captains need to find some offense in this one, and that's been a problem for them all year long. Just got that feelin' that the Tigers will be able to put up more points than Virginia, though both teams play a pretty tough brand of defense. And so it will be.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Friday, November 21, 2008
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - 11/15/08
Enjoy the games on this wet weekend!!
IN THE ACC
Boston College (6-3, 2-3) at #19 Florida State (7-2, 4-2)
The wounded Eagles swoop into Tallahassee Saturday for an evening soiree with the Seminoles, but Bobby Bowden and his Tribe ain't gonna be such nice dance partners. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles have had a few feathers plucked from their wings recently, and the Seminoles will try to pluck what's left when the Eagles get into town. And so it will be.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
#16 North Carolina (7-2, 3-2) at Maryland (6-3, 3-2)
Butch Davis and the Blue Billies pay a Noon-time visit to Mary-land, lookin' to put a crack in the shell of Ralph Friedgen's Terrapins, but it won't be easy. The Terps are all over the map this year, winning ones they shouldn't and losing ones they shouldn't - so this one depends on which team actually shows up. But the Terps ain't lost at home yet, and they might have enough to survive the Tar Heel invasion.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - North Carolina
#24 Wake Forest (6-3, 4-2) at NC State (3-6, 1-4)
About this time of year, the good teams usually beat the bad teams, and this is the matchup today at NC State as Jim Grobe's Preachermen look to stay in the hunt for the ACC Atlantic Title. But they're gonna have to prove it because the Wolfies from Raleigh sure would like to pull the upset and howl at the moon. But I ain't sure Tom O'Brien's Wild Dawgs have got that much fight left in 'em.
Rod's Reject - NC State
IN THE SEC
Louisiana-Monroe (3-7, 2-4 in Sun Belt Conference) at Mississippi (5-4, 3-3)
Houston Nutt and the Rebels look to get bowl-eligible today against the Warhawks, and the should accomplish that goal by supper time. The Johnny-Rebs have a lot of weapons to unload at the Birds, and this bunch of Louisiana fowl ain't gonna have any answers for it.
Rod's Reject - Louisiana-Monroe
Troy (6-3, 4-1 in the Sun Belt) at #20 LSU (6-3, 3-3)
The Trojans invade Tiger Town Saturday with high hopes of derailing the Bayou Bengals, but they're gonna find out that they didn't bring enough ammo with them to get the job done. Les Miles and the Tigers are out of the hunt for the SEC West title, but still have a lot to play for and the Trojans will be on the receiving end of the Tiger Claws Saturday Night.
Rod's Reject - Troy
#10 Georgia (8-2, 5-2) at Auburn (5-5, 2-4)
Usually, this one has all the bells and whistles to be one of the premier games in the SEC, but this year...not so much. Mark Richt and the Dawgs will be ready to pounce on the Kitties from the opening gun, but Tommy Tuberville and his Cats won't roll over and play dead so quickly. The hometown team has a lot of pride, if nothing else, and will scratch and claw for all they're worth, but they will come up a little short as the Dawgs will escape with a tough, hard-earned win.
Rod's Reject - Auburn
Mississippi State (3-6, 1-4) at #1 Alabama (10-0, 6-0)
Sylvester Croom and the downtrodden Bullies limp into Bammer to try to stun the world - won't happen. Nick Saban and the Ephalumps will be focused and ready (and have a good memory of some past games against MSU) and will take care of the Bulldogs in convincing fashion. The Crimson Tide continue to roll - and the Dogs will wonder what hit 'em.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Vanderbilt (5-4, 3-3) at Kentucky (6-4, 2-4)
Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers point the mast toward Lexington and sail full steam ahead into a trap for them as the Wildcats will be on full alert. Rich Brooks came close to a big win last week versus Georgia, and they don't want this one to get away from them. Vandy still needs a win to become bowl-eligible - and they will still need one win after the final horn sounds Saturday Night.
Rod's Reject - Vanderbilt
THE BIG TWO
Duke (4-5, 1-4) at Clemson (4-5, 2-4)
Hard to believe that both of these teams are 4-5 after 9 games, but for vastly different reasons. David Cutcliffe and the Blue Devils have made some strides this year and are still within range to get to a bowl, but they need 2 wins in their last 3 games to get it and they know their easiest chance to get a win in the last 3 games is this weekend in Death Valley. (Their last two games are against Virginia Tech and North Carolina). Dabo Swinney and the Tigers, however, have a few things to fight for themselves, and they can still get to a bowl if they win out. That road starts Saturday as the Tigers come down the hill with the chinstraps snapped and ready to play - look for the Tigers to put the clamps on the ACC's leading passer - and the offense to pick things up, too. At the end of the day, the Tiger faithful go home happy as Clemson drops the hammer on the Dukies.
Rod's Reject - Duke
#25 South Carolina (7-3, 4-3) at #4 Florida (8-1, 6-1)
Most of the experts say this one isn't going to be close - Florida should win by 3 touchdowns. Well, they might be right. Hard to argue with Florida's work over the last couple of months. Steve Spurrier will have the G-Cocks ready and the defense will give a yeoman's effort, but I think the offense will sag a little and leave the defense on the field a little too long. Urban Meyer's Toothy Crew will be too strong today for the Cocks. It'll be a closer game if the G-Cocks win the kicking game (not letting the Gators block punts or return kicks) and if they don't have costly turnovers. Easier said than done against Florida in the Swamp.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina
IN THE ACC
Boston College (6-3, 2-3) at #19 Florida State (7-2, 4-2)
The wounded Eagles swoop into Tallahassee Saturday for an evening soiree with the Seminoles, but Bobby Bowden and his Tribe ain't gonna be such nice dance partners. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles have had a few feathers plucked from their wings recently, and the Seminoles will try to pluck what's left when the Eagles get into town. And so it will be.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
#16 North Carolina (7-2, 3-2) at Maryland (6-3, 3-2)
Butch Davis and the Blue Billies pay a Noon-time visit to Mary-land, lookin' to put a crack in the shell of Ralph Friedgen's Terrapins, but it won't be easy. The Terps are all over the map this year, winning ones they shouldn't and losing ones they shouldn't - so this one depends on which team actually shows up. But the Terps ain't lost at home yet, and they might have enough to survive the Tar Heel invasion.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - North Carolina
#24 Wake Forest (6-3, 4-2) at NC State (3-6, 1-4)
About this time of year, the good teams usually beat the bad teams, and this is the matchup today at NC State as Jim Grobe's Preachermen look to stay in the hunt for the ACC Atlantic Title. But they're gonna have to prove it because the Wolfies from Raleigh sure would like to pull the upset and howl at the moon. But I ain't sure Tom O'Brien's Wild Dawgs have got that much fight left in 'em.
Rod's Reject - NC State
IN THE SEC
Louisiana-Monroe (3-7, 2-4 in Sun Belt Conference) at Mississippi (5-4, 3-3)
Houston Nutt and the Rebels look to get bowl-eligible today against the Warhawks, and the should accomplish that goal by supper time. The Johnny-Rebs have a lot of weapons to unload at the Birds, and this bunch of Louisiana fowl ain't gonna have any answers for it.
Rod's Reject - Louisiana-Monroe
Troy (6-3, 4-1 in the Sun Belt) at #20 LSU (6-3, 3-3)
The Trojans invade Tiger Town Saturday with high hopes of derailing the Bayou Bengals, but they're gonna find out that they didn't bring enough ammo with them to get the job done. Les Miles and the Tigers are out of the hunt for the SEC West title, but still have a lot to play for and the Trojans will be on the receiving end of the Tiger Claws Saturday Night.
Rod's Reject - Troy
#10 Georgia (8-2, 5-2) at Auburn (5-5, 2-4)
Usually, this one has all the bells and whistles to be one of the premier games in the SEC, but this year...not so much. Mark Richt and the Dawgs will be ready to pounce on the Kitties from the opening gun, but Tommy Tuberville and his Cats won't roll over and play dead so quickly. The hometown team has a lot of pride, if nothing else, and will scratch and claw for all they're worth, but they will come up a little short as the Dawgs will escape with a tough, hard-earned win.
Rod's Reject - Auburn
Mississippi State (3-6, 1-4) at #1 Alabama (10-0, 6-0)
Sylvester Croom and the downtrodden Bullies limp into Bammer to try to stun the world - won't happen. Nick Saban and the Ephalumps will be focused and ready (and have a good memory of some past games against MSU) and will take care of the Bulldogs in convincing fashion. The Crimson Tide continue to roll - and the Dogs will wonder what hit 'em.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Vanderbilt (5-4, 3-3) at Kentucky (6-4, 2-4)
Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers point the mast toward Lexington and sail full steam ahead into a trap for them as the Wildcats will be on full alert. Rich Brooks came close to a big win last week versus Georgia, and they don't want this one to get away from them. Vandy still needs a win to become bowl-eligible - and they will still need one win after the final horn sounds Saturday Night.
Rod's Reject - Vanderbilt
THE BIG TWO
Duke (4-5, 1-4) at Clemson (4-5, 2-4)
Hard to believe that both of these teams are 4-5 after 9 games, but for vastly different reasons. David Cutcliffe and the Blue Devils have made some strides this year and are still within range to get to a bowl, but they need 2 wins in their last 3 games to get it and they know their easiest chance to get a win in the last 3 games is this weekend in Death Valley. (Their last two games are against Virginia Tech and North Carolina). Dabo Swinney and the Tigers, however, have a few things to fight for themselves, and they can still get to a bowl if they win out. That road starts Saturday as the Tigers come down the hill with the chinstraps snapped and ready to play - look for the Tigers to put the clamps on the ACC's leading passer - and the offense to pick things up, too. At the end of the day, the Tiger faithful go home happy as Clemson drops the hammer on the Dukies.
Rod's Reject - Duke
#25 South Carolina (7-3, 4-3) at #4 Florida (8-1, 6-1)
Most of the experts say this one isn't going to be close - Florida should win by 3 touchdowns. Well, they might be right. Hard to argue with Florida's work over the last couple of months. Steve Spurrier will have the G-Cocks ready and the defense will give a yeoman's effort, but I think the offense will sag a little and leave the defense on the field a little too long. Urban Meyer's Toothy Crew will be too strong today for the Cocks. It'll be a closer game if the G-Cocks win the kicking game (not letting the Gators block punts or return kicks) and if they don't have costly turnovers. Easier said than done against Florida in the Swamp.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina
Friday, November 7, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - 11/07/08
Welcome to November...chilly mornings...fall afternoons...and football.
Big games on tap this weekend for the big schools - USC and Clemson need to get some wins. It would be nice if The Citadel could beat the 4-game slide and upset Wofford, but Wofford (besides their last game against Appalachian State) has done well this year - so it won't be easy. And congrats to the South Carolina State Bulldogs - good win last night as they continue to fight for the MEAC title.
And don't forget tonight's games - Calhoun County and Calhoun Academy are both at home in the first round of the playoffs...get out there are support your teams!!!!
On To This Week's Games
IN THE ACC
North Carolina State (2-6, 0-4 in ACC) at Duke (4-4, 1-3 in ACC)
Tom O'Brien and the Wild Dawgs hop in the taxi for the short trip to Durham to try to tackle a bunch of Devils, but that ain't gonna be too easy. David Cutcliffe has a little something brewin' in Duke-ville, and the boys in blue have some goals in mind for the rest of the year - and losing to the Wolfpack ain't on that list. Duke...one step closer to bowl eligibility. I hope you were sitting down when you read that.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - N.C. State
Virginia (5-4, 3-2 in ACC) at Wake Forest (5-3, 3-2 in ACC)
Winston-Salem is the place for this afternoon battle as Al Groh loads the Sword Toters on the ship and set sail for Demon-town. Jim Grobe and his Preachermen have had a serious back-sliding lately, and have all intentions to repent and make Saturday a better day. But it won't be easy.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
#20 Georgia Tech (7-2, 4-2 in ACC) at #19 North Carolina (6-2, 2-2 in ACC)
Paul Johnson and the Humble Bumbles invade Chapel Hill at High Noon Saturday, takin' clear aim at the tail end of a bunch of goats. As much as Yellow Jackets like to fly, these Jackets clearly look to dominate the ground game, and may find much success against the Blue Billies. Butch Davis and the Tar Heels will fend off the swarm to begin with, but the Jackets will eventually find targets for their stingers.
Rod's Reject - North Carolina
Notre Dame (5-3) at Boston College (5-3, 2-3 in ACC)
Charlie Weis and the Golden Domers come calling again on an ACC team (lost earlier this year to North Carolina), and they may end up finding this opponent a little easier to handle. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles are a tough team, but have been hit hard with injuries. And I think that will be too much to overcome this week.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
IN THE SEC
#5 Florida (7-1, 5-1 in SEC) at Vanderbilt (5-3, 3-2 in SEC)
Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew slither into Nashville Saturday lookin' to lay a whoopin' on some sea sailors, but Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers ain't gonna be whooped so easily (in the 1st Quarter, anyway). A Gator win gets them into the SEC Championship Game, while Vanderbilt is in week/year umptysquat of trying to just get bowl eligible. Ain't gonna happen this week.
Rod's Reject - in a rout - Vanderbilt
Wyoming (3-6, 1-5 in Mountain West) at Tennessee (3-6, 1-5 in SEC)
Don't know what to expect from the Tennessee crowd at this one. Either 20,000 empty seats or a full stadium to support the team the rest of the year. But look at the records for these two teams, y'all. Can't be a lot of excitement in Knoxville either way Saturday.
Rod's Reject - Wyoming
Tennessee-Martin (7-2, 5-1 in Ohio Valley I-AA) at Auburn (4-5, 2-4 in SEC)
Another one to watch - lots of talk about Tommy Tuberville lately, but this week, the Tigers should have a more favorable match-up than in recent weeks. The Skyhawks do lead their conference, and they do score a lot of points. But, they give up a bunch, too. The Skyhawks' biggest win? Victory over Concordia College 87-21. But this won't be Concordia College this week. Too much War Eagle - on both sides of the ball.
Rod's Reject - UT-Martin
#13 Georgia (7-2, 4-2 in SEC) at Kentucky (6-3, 2-3 in SEC)
Mark Richt and the Dawgs have had a week to lick their wounds and sew up all the Gator scratches and head into Lexington Saturday hopin' to get things back on track. But the Blue Cats won't be the best host and Rich Brooks and his Wildcats will try to do their part to keep the Dawgs out on the porch, but they will be successful for only so long.
Rod's Reject - Kentucky
#1 Alabama (9-0, 5-0 in SEC) at #16 LSU (6-2, 3-2 in SEC)
The Battle in the Bayou!! Lots of ways to look at this one and it's one of the tough ones to pick this week. Nick Saban and the Tide have tough defense, good-steady offense, and they are definitely on a Roll. LSU has looked vulnerable, but they are playing at home and you figure at some point the big, undefeated team will fall. Will it be this week?
Rod's Reject - in a close one - LSU
THE BIG TWO
Clemson (4-4, 2-3 in ACC) at #22 Florida State (6-2, 3-2 in ACC)
Only in the ACC can a team like Clemson, with a 2-3 conference mark, really have a legitimate chance at going to the ACC Championship Game. Realize I said legitimate, not realistic. However, if Dabo Swinney and the Tigers run the ACC table, they've got a chance. But the hard part of that is they're gonna have to do it on the road, and Tallahassee ain't a place you want to play to start that winning streak. Bobby Bowden and the Seminoles ain't the cat's meow like they were several years ago, but the 2008 version looks to be pretty good, and they will look to do everything they can to stay on top of the Atlantic Division. But they will have to fight the full 60 minutes to do it.
Rod's Reject - in a nailbiter - Clemson
Arkansas (4-5, 1-4 in SEC) at South Carolina (6-3, 3-3 in SEC)
On paper, this one looks like a game where the G-Cock fans can go to the game, holler a little, and wait for the rout to happen. Most realistic G-Cock fans are nervous about this one, and each one they play. Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs bring a pretty young bunch on swine into Columbia Saturday and they will be ready to show the visiting crowd that they came to play. Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks, though, are anxious to prove a couple of things (1) the Hawgs won't run the ball on them for over 500 yards this year and (2) that last year's end-of-the-season slide ain't gonna happen to them this year. I think they will be successful in proving those points.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Big games on tap this weekend for the big schools - USC and Clemson need to get some wins. It would be nice if The Citadel could beat the 4-game slide and upset Wofford, but Wofford (besides their last game against Appalachian State) has done well this year - so it won't be easy. And congrats to the South Carolina State Bulldogs - good win last night as they continue to fight for the MEAC title.
And don't forget tonight's games - Calhoun County and Calhoun Academy are both at home in the first round of the playoffs...get out there are support your teams!!!!
On To This Week's Games
IN THE ACC
North Carolina State (2-6, 0-4 in ACC) at Duke (4-4, 1-3 in ACC)
Tom O'Brien and the Wild Dawgs hop in the taxi for the short trip to Durham to try to tackle a bunch of Devils, but that ain't gonna be too easy. David Cutcliffe has a little something brewin' in Duke-ville, and the boys in blue have some goals in mind for the rest of the year - and losing to the Wolfpack ain't on that list. Duke...one step closer to bowl eligibility. I hope you were sitting down when you read that.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - N.C. State
Virginia (5-4, 3-2 in ACC) at Wake Forest (5-3, 3-2 in ACC)
Winston-Salem is the place for this afternoon battle as Al Groh loads the Sword Toters on the ship and set sail for Demon-town. Jim Grobe and his Preachermen have had a serious back-sliding lately, and have all intentions to repent and make Saturday a better day. But it won't be easy.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
#20 Georgia Tech (7-2, 4-2 in ACC) at #19 North Carolina (6-2, 2-2 in ACC)
Paul Johnson and the Humble Bumbles invade Chapel Hill at High Noon Saturday, takin' clear aim at the tail end of a bunch of goats. As much as Yellow Jackets like to fly, these Jackets clearly look to dominate the ground game, and may find much success against the Blue Billies. Butch Davis and the Tar Heels will fend off the swarm to begin with, but the Jackets will eventually find targets for their stingers.
Rod's Reject - North Carolina
Notre Dame (5-3) at Boston College (5-3, 2-3 in ACC)
Charlie Weis and the Golden Domers come calling again on an ACC team (lost earlier this year to North Carolina), and they may end up finding this opponent a little easier to handle. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles are a tough team, but have been hit hard with injuries. And I think that will be too much to overcome this week.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
IN THE SEC
#5 Florida (7-1, 5-1 in SEC) at Vanderbilt (5-3, 3-2 in SEC)
Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew slither into Nashville Saturday lookin' to lay a whoopin' on some sea sailors, but Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers ain't gonna be whooped so easily (in the 1st Quarter, anyway). A Gator win gets them into the SEC Championship Game, while Vanderbilt is in week/year umptysquat of trying to just get bowl eligible. Ain't gonna happen this week.
Rod's Reject - in a rout - Vanderbilt
Wyoming (3-6, 1-5 in Mountain West) at Tennessee (3-6, 1-5 in SEC)
Don't know what to expect from the Tennessee crowd at this one. Either 20,000 empty seats or a full stadium to support the team the rest of the year. But look at the records for these two teams, y'all. Can't be a lot of excitement in Knoxville either way Saturday.
Rod's Reject - Wyoming
Tennessee-Martin (7-2, 5-1 in Ohio Valley I-AA) at Auburn (4-5, 2-4 in SEC)
Another one to watch - lots of talk about Tommy Tuberville lately, but this week, the Tigers should have a more favorable match-up than in recent weeks. The Skyhawks do lead their conference, and they do score a lot of points. But, they give up a bunch, too. The Skyhawks' biggest win? Victory over Concordia College 87-21. But this won't be Concordia College this week. Too much War Eagle - on both sides of the ball.
Rod's Reject - UT-Martin
#13 Georgia (7-2, 4-2 in SEC) at Kentucky (6-3, 2-3 in SEC)
Mark Richt and the Dawgs have had a week to lick their wounds and sew up all the Gator scratches and head into Lexington Saturday hopin' to get things back on track. But the Blue Cats won't be the best host and Rich Brooks and his Wildcats will try to do their part to keep the Dawgs out on the porch, but they will be successful for only so long.
Rod's Reject - Kentucky
#1 Alabama (9-0, 5-0 in SEC) at #16 LSU (6-2, 3-2 in SEC)
The Battle in the Bayou!! Lots of ways to look at this one and it's one of the tough ones to pick this week. Nick Saban and the Tide have tough defense, good-steady offense, and they are definitely on a Roll. LSU has looked vulnerable, but they are playing at home and you figure at some point the big, undefeated team will fall. Will it be this week?
Rod's Reject - in a close one - LSU
THE BIG TWO
Clemson (4-4, 2-3 in ACC) at #22 Florida State (6-2, 3-2 in ACC)
Only in the ACC can a team like Clemson, with a 2-3 conference mark, really have a legitimate chance at going to the ACC Championship Game. Realize I said legitimate, not realistic. However, if Dabo Swinney and the Tigers run the ACC table, they've got a chance. But the hard part of that is they're gonna have to do it on the road, and Tallahassee ain't a place you want to play to start that winning streak. Bobby Bowden and the Seminoles ain't the cat's meow like they were several years ago, but the 2008 version looks to be pretty good, and they will look to do everything they can to stay on top of the Atlantic Division. But they will have to fight the full 60 minutes to do it.
Rod's Reject - in a nailbiter - Clemson
Arkansas (4-5, 1-4 in SEC) at South Carolina (6-3, 3-3 in SEC)
On paper, this one looks like a game where the G-Cock fans can go to the game, holler a little, and wait for the rout to happen. Most realistic G-Cock fans are nervous about this one, and each one they play. Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs bring a pretty young bunch on swine into Columbia Saturday and they will be ready to show the visiting crowd that they came to play. Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks, though, are anxious to prove a couple of things (1) the Hawgs won't run the ball on them for over 500 yards this year and (2) that last year's end-of-the-season slide ain't gonna happen to them this year. I think they will be successful in proving those points.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Friday, October 31, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks 10/31/08
Happy Halloween!! Hope you stocked up with lots of candy for the little ghosts and goblins!!
There were a few spooky things with the picks last week, but one thing's for sure - didn't miss the USC and Clemson picks.
Coming down the homestretch with lots of things still to fight for. USC needs a win to get to a bowl and a few more wins to improve the bowl they go to. Clemson needs to finish strong to get to a bowl, so there's lots on the line this week for the big state schools.
On to the picks!!
IN THE ACC
Duke (4-3, 1-2 in the ACC) at Wake Forest (4-3, 2-2 in the ACC)
David Cutcliffe and the Blue Devils make the short trip over to Winston-Salem Saturday for tent revival meeting with the Deacons. Hard to believe, but Duke only needs two wins to become bowl-eligible, and with a tougher schedule coming up, this one is almost a must-win for the Dukies. Jim Grobe and his Preachermen have lost a little faith lately, and the Deacs are scrambling for 6 wins, too. Trouble is, none of these are easy for Wake Forest these days, and this one ain't gonna be easy, either. I'm not sure how many pitchforks the Blue Devils will be taking with them on the trip, but I don't think it's gonna be enough, however many they tote.
Rod's Reject - in a doozy - Duke
Miami, Florida (5-3, 2-2) at Virginia (5-3, 3-1)
Randy Shannon and the Big Wind swirl up to Charlottesville Saturday, lookin' to throw some water on a hot Cavalier squad. Al Groh and the Sword Toters have flat out gotten the job done lately, and they ain't about to pull up the sails just yet. The Hurricanes will be tough on the Cavalier ship, causing it to toss all throughout the game. But I think the Cavaliers weather the storm - barely.
Rod's Reject - Miami, Fla.
#15 Florida State (6-1, 3-1) at Georgia Tech (6-2, 3-2)
Hotlanta is the scene of this clash Saturday as Bobby Bowden and the Semi-holes march into town with an arrow bag full of flyswatters - and ready to take aim at a bunch of stingy Yellow Jackets. Paul Johnson and the Humble Bumbles have stumbled a bit lately, but look to make a big swarm on the visitors from Tallahassee this weekend. This ain't the ole' 1990's Seminoles where they beat everybody badly, but they aren't too bad these days, either. Florida State remains in the hunt for the Atlantic Division champions - and won't let G-Tech get in the way of achieving that goal.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Georgia Tech
IN THE SEC
Kentucky (5-3, 1-3) at Mississippi State (3-5, 1-3)
Rich Brooks and the battered Blue Cats limp into Starkville for an afternoon showdown with a bunch of downtrodden Dogs. But Sylvester Croom and the Bullies have been down these roads before, and know how to spring a surprise on some unexpecting visitors. While this won't be a pretty game to watch, it will have its moments, and I think the Wildcats will have a few more than the Bulldogs.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
#18 Tulsa (8-0, 5-0 in Conference USA) at Arkansas (3-5, 1-4)
Big battle in Arkansas with more twists than a pretzel. Houston Nutt - gone. New Coach - Bobby Petrino. Tulsa comes in with offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn - yep, the former Razorback offensive coordinator. By the way, Tulsa is averaging 56 points per game, 357 passing yards per game, and 624 total yards per game. Memo to the Razorbacks - I don' think you got that kind of offense to keep up with the Golden Hurricanes.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Auburn (4-4, 2-3) at Mississippi (4-4, 2-3)
Tommy Tuberville and the War Eagle swoop into Mississippi Saturday, tryin' to keep their feathers from getting totally plucked this season. But ole' Houston Nutt is a pretty good hunter of prey, and the Rebels will have their muskets fully loaded and locked in on the enemy when they fly in. The shots will be on target.
Rod's Reject - Auburn
#8 Florida (6-1, 4-1) vs #6 Georgia (7-1, 4-1) at Jacksonville
Welcome to the game that will decide who stays and who goes in the hunt for the National Championship. Lots of intrigue here - big game, great teams, cocktail party, Dawgs storming the field last year after the first touchdown, etc. Both teams come in ready to play. Mark Richt and the Dawgs will bring the full pound as they try to skin the Gators, but Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew will have their teeth sharpened and ready for the attack. Regardless of all the pre-game talk, it looks like Florida is the better team.
Rod's Reject - Georgia
NATIONAL GAMES
Nebraska at #4 Oklahoma
While Bo Pelini and the Huskers have good things to look forward to, this weekend ain't one of 'em. Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners are rollin' the wagon toward the National Championship, and the Corn-Feds from Nebraska ain't gonna be much more than a speedbump.
Rod's Reject - Nebraska
#1 Texas at #7 Texas Tech
Big shootout in Texas this weekend, and Mack Brown will have the Longhorns ready for the fight. Mike Leary and the Red Raiders, though, will pack plenty of bullets in the pistols, so don't be surprised if t-bone steak isn't on the menu in Lubbock after all is said and done. But the Longhorns have some ammo, too, and some long horns to do some gorin' of their own. Whoever's got the ball last has the best chance.
Rod's Reject - Texas
THE BIG TWO
Clemson (3-4, 1-3) at Boston College (5-2, 2-2)
Dabo Swinney and the new-attitude Tigers get ready to do a little pouncin' at Boston College this weekend, and are getting one of their key Cats (Spiller) back to help with the dance. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles, though, will have their claws ready to defend the home turf. Lots of unknowns for this one: will Dabo have the Tigers ready to play in his 2nd game as coach? How are Harper's and Korn's injuries? How will the Tigers play coming off of an open week? Boston College has been a turnover machine during the last 3 games - does that continue? BC has had a stout defense - but injuries have made deep hits in the lineup. I think the BC loss at North Carolina last week shook up the Eagles, and I don't think they are gonna be over it in time to tackle the Tigers.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
Tennessee (3-5, 1-4) at South Carolina (5-3, 2-3)
A wierd coaching season continues as the talk out of Knoxville is all about Phil Fulmer and if he's gonna last the entire season. Just another thing about this game that the G-Cocks need to look out for. Fulmer's Volunteers head into Columbia for an evening tilt with the Gamecocks, and when they get there, they will see a team exactly like their team - struggling on offense, pretty good on defense, etc. So how will this one play out? I really don't know. Both teams have a lot to play for - who wants it more (and who turns it over less)? If the Gamecocks want to push their way into the upper part of the SEC East, they're gonna have to beat history - Phil Fulmer is 14-1 against the Gamecocks during his time at Tennessee. This year is the year to put a dent in that history.
Rod's Reject - in a scary game - Tennessee
There were a few spooky things with the picks last week, but one thing's for sure - didn't miss the USC and Clemson picks.
Coming down the homestretch with lots of things still to fight for. USC needs a win to get to a bowl and a few more wins to improve the bowl they go to. Clemson needs to finish strong to get to a bowl, so there's lots on the line this week for the big state schools.
On to the picks!!
IN THE ACC
Duke (4-3, 1-2 in the ACC) at Wake Forest (4-3, 2-2 in the ACC)
David Cutcliffe and the Blue Devils make the short trip over to Winston-Salem Saturday for tent revival meeting with the Deacons. Hard to believe, but Duke only needs two wins to become bowl-eligible, and with a tougher schedule coming up, this one is almost a must-win for the Dukies. Jim Grobe and his Preachermen have lost a little faith lately, and the Deacs are scrambling for 6 wins, too. Trouble is, none of these are easy for Wake Forest these days, and this one ain't gonna be easy, either. I'm not sure how many pitchforks the Blue Devils will be taking with them on the trip, but I don't think it's gonna be enough, however many they tote.
Rod's Reject - in a doozy - Duke
Miami, Florida (5-3, 2-2) at Virginia (5-3, 3-1)
Randy Shannon and the Big Wind swirl up to Charlottesville Saturday, lookin' to throw some water on a hot Cavalier squad. Al Groh and the Sword Toters have flat out gotten the job done lately, and they ain't about to pull up the sails just yet. The Hurricanes will be tough on the Cavalier ship, causing it to toss all throughout the game. But I think the Cavaliers weather the storm - barely.
Rod's Reject - Miami, Fla.
#15 Florida State (6-1, 3-1) at Georgia Tech (6-2, 3-2)
Hotlanta is the scene of this clash Saturday as Bobby Bowden and the Semi-holes march into town with an arrow bag full of flyswatters - and ready to take aim at a bunch of stingy Yellow Jackets. Paul Johnson and the Humble Bumbles have stumbled a bit lately, but look to make a big swarm on the visitors from Tallahassee this weekend. This ain't the ole' 1990's Seminoles where they beat everybody badly, but they aren't too bad these days, either. Florida State remains in the hunt for the Atlantic Division champions - and won't let G-Tech get in the way of achieving that goal.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Georgia Tech
IN THE SEC
Kentucky (5-3, 1-3) at Mississippi State (3-5, 1-3)
Rich Brooks and the battered Blue Cats limp into Starkville for an afternoon showdown with a bunch of downtrodden Dogs. But Sylvester Croom and the Bullies have been down these roads before, and know how to spring a surprise on some unexpecting visitors. While this won't be a pretty game to watch, it will have its moments, and I think the Wildcats will have a few more than the Bulldogs.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
#18 Tulsa (8-0, 5-0 in Conference USA) at Arkansas (3-5, 1-4)
Big battle in Arkansas with more twists than a pretzel. Houston Nutt - gone. New Coach - Bobby Petrino. Tulsa comes in with offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn - yep, the former Razorback offensive coordinator. By the way, Tulsa is averaging 56 points per game, 357 passing yards per game, and 624 total yards per game. Memo to the Razorbacks - I don' think you got that kind of offense to keep up with the Golden Hurricanes.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Auburn (4-4, 2-3) at Mississippi (4-4, 2-3)
Tommy Tuberville and the War Eagle swoop into Mississippi Saturday, tryin' to keep their feathers from getting totally plucked this season. But ole' Houston Nutt is a pretty good hunter of prey, and the Rebels will have their muskets fully loaded and locked in on the enemy when they fly in. The shots will be on target.
Rod's Reject - Auburn
#8 Florida (6-1, 4-1) vs #6 Georgia (7-1, 4-1) at Jacksonville
Welcome to the game that will decide who stays and who goes in the hunt for the National Championship. Lots of intrigue here - big game, great teams, cocktail party, Dawgs storming the field last year after the first touchdown, etc. Both teams come in ready to play. Mark Richt and the Dawgs will bring the full pound as they try to skin the Gators, but Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew will have their teeth sharpened and ready for the attack. Regardless of all the pre-game talk, it looks like Florida is the better team.
Rod's Reject - Georgia
NATIONAL GAMES
Nebraska at #4 Oklahoma
While Bo Pelini and the Huskers have good things to look forward to, this weekend ain't one of 'em. Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners are rollin' the wagon toward the National Championship, and the Corn-Feds from Nebraska ain't gonna be much more than a speedbump.
Rod's Reject - Nebraska
#1 Texas at #7 Texas Tech
Big shootout in Texas this weekend, and Mack Brown will have the Longhorns ready for the fight. Mike Leary and the Red Raiders, though, will pack plenty of bullets in the pistols, so don't be surprised if t-bone steak isn't on the menu in Lubbock after all is said and done. But the Longhorns have some ammo, too, and some long horns to do some gorin' of their own. Whoever's got the ball last has the best chance.
Rod's Reject - Texas
THE BIG TWO
Clemson (3-4, 1-3) at Boston College (5-2, 2-2)
Dabo Swinney and the new-attitude Tigers get ready to do a little pouncin' at Boston College this weekend, and are getting one of their key Cats (Spiller) back to help with the dance. Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles, though, will have their claws ready to defend the home turf. Lots of unknowns for this one: will Dabo have the Tigers ready to play in his 2nd game as coach? How are Harper's and Korn's injuries? How will the Tigers play coming off of an open week? Boston College has been a turnover machine during the last 3 games - does that continue? BC has had a stout defense - but injuries have made deep hits in the lineup. I think the BC loss at North Carolina last week shook up the Eagles, and I don't think they are gonna be over it in time to tackle the Tigers.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
Tennessee (3-5, 1-4) at South Carolina (5-3, 2-3)
A wierd coaching season continues as the talk out of Knoxville is all about Phil Fulmer and if he's gonna last the entire season. Just another thing about this game that the G-Cocks need to look out for. Fulmer's Volunteers head into Columbia for an evening tilt with the Gamecocks, and when they get there, they will see a team exactly like their team - struggling on offense, pretty good on defense, etc. So how will this one play out? I really don't know. Both teams have a lot to play for - who wants it more (and who turns it over less)? If the Gamecocks want to push their way into the upper part of the SEC East, they're gonna have to beat history - Phil Fulmer is 14-1 against the Gamecocks during his time at Tennessee. This year is the year to put a dent in that history.
Rod's Reject - in a scary game - Tennessee
Friday, October 24, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - 10/24/08
A little gloomy looking today - rainy, Calhoun Academy B-Team and JV suffer defeats last night, Gamecocks and Tigers lose last week.
But, good news is still around. The CA Varsity can get themselves into a Region Championship game next week with a win over Robert E Lee tonight (or whenever it will be played due to the rain).
Anyway, on to this week's picks...
IN THE ACC
North Carolina State at Maryland
Tom O'Brien and the Wolfpack head into Turtletown for a mid-afternoon battle of the midlin's. Ralph Friedgen and the Turtle Crew have slowly settled into a pretty good season, and I ain't sure they are ready to have a bunch of Wild Dawgs mess up their good time. The Terps struggle early, but have enough on the shell to take down the Wolfpack.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Virginia Tech at Florida State
Frank Beamer and the Hokey-Pokes strut into Tallamahassee lookin' to peck a few holes into the Semiholes, but Bobby Bowden and the Tribe are gonna be ready for the fight. Florida State will have the arrows pointed in the right direction, and enough of them will hit the mark on Saturday afternoon. The Hokies scratch and claw, but will come up a little short.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
Virginia at Georgia Tech
Al Groh's Sword Toters head into Hotlanta ready to put the upset hat on the Techsters and early on, it may look like they will succeed. But Paul Johnson and the Bumbles are still out to prove that Jackets can do work on the ground and will commence to drive home that point come Saturday. Should be a slugfest, but the Jackets will be the ones applying the last sting.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Wake Forest at Miami, Florida
The Winston-Salem Churchmen have had to offer up a few prayers recently because they've lost their way, and Jim Grobe will try to get his team to figure it all out at Noon on Saturday as they visit the pews at Miami. But Randy Shannon and his Big Wind won't be real forgiving, and though they may have compassion for the lost, the Hurricanes won't be having too much sympathy for the Demon Deacons.
Rod's Reject - Wake Forest
Boston College at North Carolina
Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles fly into Chapel Hill Saturday with all talons aimed and some Goat Hide, but Butch Davis and his Blue Billies will be ready for the air raid. The Heels are lookin' forward to basketball season, but they still have a few scores to settle on the gridiron this year, and the Eagles are next up on the plate.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
IN THE SEC
Kentucky at Florida
Rich Brooks and the Blue Cats head into The Swamp Saturday, hopin' to pounce on an unsuspecting Water Lizard. But Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew have other plans for the Cats and they will proceed with skinnin' all 9 lives from Kentucky early - and often.
Rod's Rejects - Kentucky
Duke at Vanderbilt
The Golden Shoe has come off of the Vanderbilt Dance this year, but this is still a tough ol' team to deal with. Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers are getting into unchartered waters because, with a win, they will become bowl-eligible. David Cutcliffe and the Dukies are trying to get there, too, and have made great strides in getting some respect back at Durham. But it's gonna take a little longer - and this week ain't the week to get it.
Rod's Reject - in a rare meaningful game between Duke and Vandy - Duke
Mississippi at Arkansas
Houston Nutt and the Rebels invade Ar-Kansas for what will surely be an interested day at the ol' ballpark. Nutt ain't gonna get a lot of love from the ex-fans, but I ain't sure the ex-team will have a lot to say about it. Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs continue to struggle - depending on what week it is. And Nutt is the master-motivator - and it works well for this game.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Alabama at Tennessee
Nick Saban and the Tide roll into Knoxville for the annual duke-it-out with the Volunteers. Phil Fulmer and the Vols don't look to be able to put up too much resistance, but it's these kind of games that always bite you in the rear. The Elephants need to be sure their tusks have sharp points on 'em, because they could be in trouble if they don't. Scary one for Saban - don't be surprised if this one's an upset. But...
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
Georgia at LSU
Mark Richt and the Dawgs head into Batawn Rouge Saturday, lookin' to sniff out the Tigers and come away with a huge win, but Les Miles and the Striped Ones will have something to say about that. The Bayou Bengals head back home to defend the turf, fresh off of a tough win over USC last week, and they ain't about the let those good feelings go bad after one week.
Rod's Reject - in a tough one - Georgia
Oklahoma State at Texas
Mike Gundy and the Cowpokes head into Austin Saturday for one of the biggest games of the day as they look to put the lasso on the Longhorns, and Mack Brown better have the Steers on full alert. The Cowboys have the arsenal to inflict damage on the home team, but the 'Horns will have a little more come Saturday and will end the rodeo for the Cowboys.
Rod's Reject - Oklahoma State
Oklahoma at Kansas State
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners roll into Manhatten Saturday ready to lay the wood on a bunch of Wildcats, and I don't think it's gonna take too long to do. Ron Prince and the Wildcats will be able to scratch up the ol' Schooner a little, but it won't be near enough to take the wheels of the thing.
Rod's Reject - Kansas State
Texas Tech at Kansas
Mike Leach and the Red Raiders take their Air Circus to Lawrence Saturday and you can bet that the sky will be filled with footballs. Mark Mangino and the Jayhawks hope to slow down the air assault enough to put some points on the home side of the scoreboard - and they will, but I'm not sure it will be enough. This one could go either way...
Rod's Reject - in a close, wild-n-wooly one - Kansas
Penn State at Ohio State
One of the biggest games of the year (at least for these two schools) features Joe Pa and the Nittany Lions at the Shoe against the Buckeyes. Who's gonna win? Heck if I know, but it should be a goodun to watch. Night game. Ohio State. Penn State. Great defenses. Tough breaks. Great hits.
Rod's Reject - in a toss-up - Penn State
But, good news is still around. The CA Varsity can get themselves into a Region Championship game next week with a win over Robert E Lee tonight (or whenever it will be played due to the rain).
Anyway, on to this week's picks...
IN THE ACC
North Carolina State at Maryland
Tom O'Brien and the Wolfpack head into Turtletown for a mid-afternoon battle of the midlin's. Ralph Friedgen and the Turtle Crew have slowly settled into a pretty good season, and I ain't sure they are ready to have a bunch of Wild Dawgs mess up their good time. The Terps struggle early, but have enough on the shell to take down the Wolfpack.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Virginia Tech at Florida State
Frank Beamer and the Hokey-Pokes strut into Tallamahassee lookin' to peck a few holes into the Semiholes, but Bobby Bowden and the Tribe are gonna be ready for the fight. Florida State will have the arrows pointed in the right direction, and enough of them will hit the mark on Saturday afternoon. The Hokies scratch and claw, but will come up a little short.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
Virginia at Georgia Tech
Al Groh's Sword Toters head into Hotlanta ready to put the upset hat on the Techsters and early on, it may look like they will succeed. But Paul Johnson and the Bumbles are still out to prove that Jackets can do work on the ground and will commence to drive home that point come Saturday. Should be a slugfest, but the Jackets will be the ones applying the last sting.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Wake Forest at Miami, Florida
The Winston-Salem Churchmen have had to offer up a few prayers recently because they've lost their way, and Jim Grobe will try to get his team to figure it all out at Noon on Saturday as they visit the pews at Miami. But Randy Shannon and his Big Wind won't be real forgiving, and though they may have compassion for the lost, the Hurricanes won't be having too much sympathy for the Demon Deacons.
Rod's Reject - Wake Forest
Boston College at North Carolina
Jeff Jagodzinski and the Eagles fly into Chapel Hill Saturday with all talons aimed and some Goat Hide, but Butch Davis and his Blue Billies will be ready for the air raid. The Heels are lookin' forward to basketball season, but they still have a few scores to settle on the gridiron this year, and the Eagles are next up on the plate.
Rod's Reject - Boston College
IN THE SEC
Kentucky at Florida
Rich Brooks and the Blue Cats head into The Swamp Saturday, hopin' to pounce on an unsuspecting Water Lizard. But Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew have other plans for the Cats and they will proceed with skinnin' all 9 lives from Kentucky early - and often.
Rod's Rejects - Kentucky
Duke at Vanderbilt
The Golden Shoe has come off of the Vanderbilt Dance this year, but this is still a tough ol' team to deal with. Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers are getting into unchartered waters because, with a win, they will become bowl-eligible. David Cutcliffe and the Dukies are trying to get there, too, and have made great strides in getting some respect back at Durham. But it's gonna take a little longer - and this week ain't the week to get it.
Rod's Reject - in a rare meaningful game between Duke and Vandy - Duke
Mississippi at Arkansas
Houston Nutt and the Rebels invade Ar-Kansas for what will surely be an interested day at the ol' ballpark. Nutt ain't gonna get a lot of love from the ex-fans, but I ain't sure the ex-team will have a lot to say about it. Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs continue to struggle - depending on what week it is. And Nutt is the master-motivator - and it works well for this game.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Alabama at Tennessee
Nick Saban and the Tide roll into Knoxville for the annual duke-it-out with the Volunteers. Phil Fulmer and the Vols don't look to be able to put up too much resistance, but it's these kind of games that always bite you in the rear. The Elephants need to be sure their tusks have sharp points on 'em, because they could be in trouble if they don't. Scary one for Saban - don't be surprised if this one's an upset. But...
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
Georgia at LSU
Mark Richt and the Dawgs head into Batawn Rouge Saturday, lookin' to sniff out the Tigers and come away with a huge win, but Les Miles and the Striped Ones will have something to say about that. The Bayou Bengals head back home to defend the turf, fresh off of a tough win over USC last week, and they ain't about the let those good feelings go bad after one week.
Rod's Reject - in a tough one - Georgia
Oklahoma State at Texas
Mike Gundy and the Cowpokes head into Austin Saturday for one of the biggest games of the day as they look to put the lasso on the Longhorns, and Mack Brown better have the Steers on full alert. The Cowboys have the arsenal to inflict damage on the home team, but the 'Horns will have a little more come Saturday and will end the rodeo for the Cowboys.
Rod's Reject - Oklahoma State
Oklahoma at Kansas State
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners roll into Manhatten Saturday ready to lay the wood on a bunch of Wildcats, and I don't think it's gonna take too long to do. Ron Prince and the Wildcats will be able to scratch up the ol' Schooner a little, but it won't be near enough to take the wheels of the thing.
Rod's Reject - Kansas State
Texas Tech at Kansas
Mike Leach and the Red Raiders take their Air Circus to Lawrence Saturday and you can bet that the sky will be filled with footballs. Mark Mangino and the Jayhawks hope to slow down the air assault enough to put some points on the home side of the scoreboard - and they will, but I'm not sure it will be enough. This one could go either way...
Rod's Reject - in a close, wild-n-wooly one - Kansas
Penn State at Ohio State
One of the biggest games of the year (at least for these two schools) features Joe Pa and the Nittany Lions at the Shoe against the Buckeyes. Who's gonna win? Heck if I know, but it should be a goodun to watch. Night game. Ohio State. Penn State. Great defenses. Tough breaks. Great hits.
Rod's Reject - in a toss-up - Penn State
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - 10/16/08
Good to be back - everything has been kinda busy for about two weeks and the pick 'em machine has been out of service.
But, I've got it crunk back up - so here we go - on to this week's picks.
ACC Games
Wake Forest at Maryland
Jim Grobe's Preachermen head into Terp-ville to try to crack the Shelled Ones, but Ralph Friedgen and the Terps may have other plans. The Demon Deacons are still in the race for their division title in the ACC, and this one is important.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Miami, Fla at Duke
Well, Randy Shannon and the Big Wind venture into Durham to see if they can catch the Blue Devils by the tail, but that ain't gonna be such an easy job this year. David Cutcliffe and his Blue Poker Crew have turned a few heads this year, and they will try to take another step up the ladder by knockin' off the Canes. This one will be close, but not close enough for the Dukies.
Rod's Reject - Duke
North Carolina at Virginia
Charlottesville will be the scene for this mid-afternoon tilt as Butch Davis and the Blue Billies point their horns at the Cavaliers. Al Groh and the Sword Toters are in prime position to pull off an upset, and I think they will succeed.
Rod's Reject - in an upset - North Carolina
Virginia Tech at Boston College
Frank Beamer and the Gobblers head into Beantown lookin' to pluck a few Eagle feathers, but they will get a few feathers of their own plucked early in this one. This is a big game for the Hokies, as they try to hold serve in their division, but this game will be a tough one to try to pull off. Tougher than they want it to be.
Rod's Reject - in a Close One - Virginia Tech
In The SEC
Arkansas at Kentucky
Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs storm into Tucky Town lookin' for a few good Cats to stick their tusks into. But Rich Brooks and this Blue Cats won't be in such a giving mood and they will try to do a little damage of their own. Before the night ends, though, the Cats will be able to claw just enough to pull this one out.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Mississippi State at Tennessee
Sylvester Croom and the Bulldogs rumble into Knoxville, still feeling giddy after sinkin' the Vandy ship last week. With the confidence they have now, they look to do the same to the Volunteers. But Phil Fulmer will have the Mountain Men ready and the sights on their guns will be well calibrated - and the shots they fire will hit the target.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Mississippi at Alabama
Houston Nutt and the Rebels march into Alabama for a Saturday afternoon battle, and they will have all their weapons drawn for the enemy. But Nick Saban and the ephalumps have seen the wannabes before, and they will have enough to turn back Mississippi - but it ain't gonna be easy.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Vanderbilt at Georgia
Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers got their first loss last week, so we will see how big the hole in the boat is this week as they prepare to take on the Athens Hound Crew. Mark Richt and the Dawgs are fully aware of the danger of the Commodores, so they will be on high alert - and they will come out on top.
Rod's Rejects - Vanderbilt
The Big Two
Georgia Tech at Clemson
Wow. What a difference a week makes. Lots of things change, but I didn't see the Bowden thing coming in the middle of the season. However, there's lots to be excited about in Tiger Town - Dabo's on the job and Willy Korn gets a crack at the starting job. But, all this comes with a tough Georgia Tech team coming into town. Hard offense to stop and a dominating defense to try to move the ball against. But the Tigers will have the passion back this weekend, and it will show when the final horn sounds.
Rod's Reject - in a slobberknocker - Georgia Tech
LSU at South Carolina
Big Game at Willy-Brice Saturday Night as Les Miles and the Bengal Tigers roll into town to let everybody know that last week's disaster at Florida was a fluke. But there will be a bunch of leathery Yard Birds who think they belong on the field, too. Steve Spurrier and the G-Cocks will be ready for the challenge - and the crowd will be ready to celebrate the big win. But the Gamecocks will come up a little short against the Tigers, though it wouldn't shock me if it went the other way, too.
Rod's Reject - in a wild-n-tight one - South Carolina
But, I've got it crunk back up - so here we go - on to this week's picks.
ACC Games
Wake Forest at Maryland
Jim Grobe's Preachermen head into Terp-ville to try to crack the Shelled Ones, but Ralph Friedgen and the Terps may have other plans. The Demon Deacons are still in the race for their division title in the ACC, and this one is important.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Miami, Fla at Duke
Well, Randy Shannon and the Big Wind venture into Durham to see if they can catch the Blue Devils by the tail, but that ain't gonna be such an easy job this year. David Cutcliffe and his Blue Poker Crew have turned a few heads this year, and they will try to take another step up the ladder by knockin' off the Canes. This one will be close, but not close enough for the Dukies.
Rod's Reject - Duke
North Carolina at Virginia
Charlottesville will be the scene for this mid-afternoon tilt as Butch Davis and the Blue Billies point their horns at the Cavaliers. Al Groh and the Sword Toters are in prime position to pull off an upset, and I think they will succeed.
Rod's Reject - in an upset - North Carolina
Virginia Tech at Boston College
Frank Beamer and the Gobblers head into Beantown lookin' to pluck a few Eagle feathers, but they will get a few feathers of their own plucked early in this one. This is a big game for the Hokies, as they try to hold serve in their division, but this game will be a tough one to try to pull off. Tougher than they want it to be.
Rod's Reject - in a Close One - Virginia Tech
In The SEC
Arkansas at Kentucky
Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs storm into Tucky Town lookin' for a few good Cats to stick their tusks into. But Rich Brooks and this Blue Cats won't be in such a giving mood and they will try to do a little damage of their own. Before the night ends, though, the Cats will be able to claw just enough to pull this one out.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Mississippi State at Tennessee
Sylvester Croom and the Bulldogs rumble into Knoxville, still feeling giddy after sinkin' the Vandy ship last week. With the confidence they have now, they look to do the same to the Volunteers. But Phil Fulmer will have the Mountain Men ready and the sights on their guns will be well calibrated - and the shots they fire will hit the target.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Mississippi at Alabama
Houston Nutt and the Rebels march into Alabama for a Saturday afternoon battle, and they will have all their weapons drawn for the enemy. But Nick Saban and the ephalumps have seen the wannabes before, and they will have enough to turn back Mississippi - but it ain't gonna be easy.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Vanderbilt at Georgia
Bobby Johnson and the Ship Steerers got their first loss last week, so we will see how big the hole in the boat is this week as they prepare to take on the Athens Hound Crew. Mark Richt and the Dawgs are fully aware of the danger of the Commodores, so they will be on high alert - and they will come out on top.
Rod's Rejects - Vanderbilt
The Big Two
Georgia Tech at Clemson
Wow. What a difference a week makes. Lots of things change, but I didn't see the Bowden thing coming in the middle of the season. However, there's lots to be excited about in Tiger Town - Dabo's on the job and Willy Korn gets a crack at the starting job. But, all this comes with a tough Georgia Tech team coming into town. Hard offense to stop and a dominating defense to try to move the ball against. But the Tigers will have the passion back this weekend, and it will show when the final horn sounds.
Rod's Reject - in a slobberknocker - Georgia Tech
LSU at South Carolina
Big Game at Willy-Brice Saturday Night as Les Miles and the Bengal Tigers roll into town to let everybody know that last week's disaster at Florida was a fluke. But there will be a bunch of leathery Yard Birds who think they belong on the field, too. Steve Spurrier and the G-Cocks will be ready for the challenge - and the crowd will be ready to celebrate the big win. But the Gamecocks will come up a little short against the Tigers, though it wouldn't shock me if it went the other way, too.
Rod's Reject - in a wild-n-tight one - South Carolina
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - Week #5
The ole' Reject-mobile spit out 6 duds last week - some of these guys just aren't working with me this year. The record last week was 22-6, bringing the yearly total to 115-27. Not too bad, but there have been plenty of easy games. That's about to change, though.
Plenty of good stuff to keep you interested this week. Alabama/Georgia, Tennessee/Auburn, Virginia Tech/Nebraska - lots of action.
Let's get on with it...
Around the SEC
Mississippi at Florida
Urban Myers' Toothy Crew done went and took a chunk out of the Volunteer hide last week, and they get back home to try to do the same to Houston Nutt's bunch of rebelmen. The Rebels will load the muskets and take dead aim and the Overgrown Lizards, but their hands will be shakin' too much to steady the shot. In the meantime, the Gators will be swarmin', and bitin' hard.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Mississippi State at LSU
Sylvester Croom's Bullpups plan to come into Baton Rouge and mess up the carpet right good with the Tigers, but they will quickly find out that ain't the smartest thing to try to do. Les Miles and the Tigers are rollin' pretty good, and will promptly get the newspaper out and swat the Dogs - pretty hard, too.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Tennessee at Auburn
The oven is startin' to get hot in Knoxville, and Phil Fulmer and his Volunteers are getting out of town just in time to avoid the heat. Problem is, they get to go into the frying pan when the visit Tommy Tuberville's Tigers. The War Eagle will be a little miffed about last week's business results, and will take great joy in crankin' up the heater for ole' Fulmer.
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
Arkansas at Texas
Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs try to get their tusks back on straight so they can go bully around the Longhorns in Austin Saturday afternoon, but Mack Brown and the Big Bulls will be ready to stampede the pigs in a big way. The Razorbacks are missing a lot of teeth this year, and the Longhorns will finish knockin' out the few ones they have left.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Alabama at Georgia
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide roll into a Black Night in Athens Saturday Night, hopin' to make the Blackout a short one. But Mark Richt and the Dawgs have the keys to the lightswitch, and they ain't about to let the Pachyderms turn any lights on. This one ought be well worth watchin', so if you ain't out at a game, pull up a chair and enjoy this fight.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Alabama
Around The ACC
Virginia at Duke
Al Groh and his Sword Toters head into Durham as an underdog, and they ain't too happy about that. The Cavalier Ship is takin' on water already this season, and if they ain't careful, the Blue Devils will add to the water level. David Cutcliffe and the Blue Lucifers have sharpened up the pitchfork this year, and they will be able to add to the holes in the Virginia boat.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Navy at Wake Forest
The Midshipmen sail into Winston-Salem Saturday afternoon with their gunnery stations aimed square at the Demon Deacons, but will all know it ain't real nice to do that to churchmen. Jim Grobe and the Deacs will dodge the initial shots fired at them, and will end the afternoon with an endzone revival that the hometown fans will be proud of.
Rod's Reject - Navy
Virginia Tech at Nebraska
Frank Beamer and the Hokey Pokes head west for a rare visit with Nebraska, and Bo Pellini will have the Corn Feds ready for the test. The Husker Nation is anxious to see some good, solid, winning football again, and may get a pretty good glimse come Saturday in Lincoln. The Hokies will make it close, but it won't be close enough.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
North Carolina at Miami, Florida
The Blue Billies took a big hit last week when QB TJ Yates went out with an injury, and may take another hit from a Hurricane this week. Randy Shannon and the Big Wind still don't blow in one direction, but they are getting close. And the Big Storm will have enough gust in it this week to blow the Heels back to Chapel Hill - with a loss.
Rod's Reject - North Carolina
South Florida at NC State
Jim Leavitt and the Florida Bulls roll up to Raleigh Saturday - ready to sink their horns into the Wild Dawgs, but Tom O'Brien and his Pack Attack will be too fast for the Bulls to take dead aim on. But it won't be long before the already-wounded Pack tire out and lay down, and that will give the Bulls a chance to finish the job.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Around The Nation
Southern California at Oregon State
The Trojans head up to Beavertown for a Thursday Night clash, and Pete Carroll will certainly have his War Steeds ready for the battle. Mike Riley's Beavers used to have some pretty long teeth, but ain't quite like that anymore, and the Trojans will make sure they knock out what little teeth they have growin'.
Rod's Reject - Oregon State
TCU at Oklahoma
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners pull out the Welcome Wagon for the Horned Frogs, but bad things happen to frogs when they get in the middle of the road. And things ain't gonna be any different for these frogs on Saturday. The Sooners roll - and that ain't gonna be good for TCU.
Rod's Reject - TCU
Illinois at Penn State
Ron Zook's Illini made big splashes last year - but this ain't last year, and the Jo Pa's Nittany Lions will make that point loud and clear Saturday Night in Happy Valley. Penn State will have too much offense for Illinois, though Juice Williams will keep Illinois in striking distance.
Rod's Reject - Illinois
Wisconsin at Michigan
Rich Rodriguez and the Wolverines have struggled some this year, and putting together his type of offense will take some time. But there are times with things come together - and surprises are a result. Bret Bielema and the Badgers will waddle into Ann Arbor Saturday and will be ready to knock off the home team, but the Wolverines will have enough to fend them off - and pull off the upset.
Rod's Reject - Upset Special - Wisconsin
The Big Two
UAB at South Carolina
The Columbia Chicken Farm has been layin' some eggs on offense this year, and if there's a game for them to get on track, it's this Saturday against one of the worst passing defenses in the country. Lots of reasons to keep tabs on this one - can the offense finally work out the kinks? What will Stephen Garcia look like when he plays a lot of the game? Can the USC defense pitch a shutout? Neil Callaway and the Blazers come into Columbia with a dampened flame, and the G-Cocks will finish blowin' it out.
Rod's Reject - UAB
Maryland at Clemson
Ralph Friedgen and the Turtle Crew journey down to Death Valley Saturday for a Lunchtime Gig with the Tigers, and will put a scare into the Orange-clads early. The Terapins will be able to shell-shock the crowd, but it won't last too long. Tommy Bowden and His Pickens County Cats will be able to crack the turtles late in the first half, then the Terps will be on the half-shell for the rest of the afternoon.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Other Losers
Rhode Island will lose to Boston College
Colorado will lose to Florida State
Western Kentucky will lose to Kentucky
Marshall will lose to West Virginia
Syracuse will lose to Pittsburgh
Indiana will lose to Michigan State
Northwestern will lose to Iowa
Akron will lose to Cincinnati
Houston will lose to East Carolina
Purdue will lose to Notre Dame
Stanford will lose to Washington
Minnesota will lose to Ohio State
UCLA will lose to Fresno State
Washington State will lose to Oregon
Army will lose to Texas A&M
Troy will lose to Oklahoma State
Florida International will lose to Toledo
Louisiana-Lafayette will lose to Kansas State
North Texas will lose to Rice
Kent State will lose to Ball State
Plenty of good stuff to keep you interested this week. Alabama/Georgia, Tennessee/Auburn, Virginia Tech/Nebraska - lots of action.
Let's get on with it...
Around the SEC
Mississippi at Florida
Urban Myers' Toothy Crew done went and took a chunk out of the Volunteer hide last week, and they get back home to try to do the same to Houston Nutt's bunch of rebelmen. The Rebels will load the muskets and take dead aim and the Overgrown Lizards, but their hands will be shakin' too much to steady the shot. In the meantime, the Gators will be swarmin', and bitin' hard.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Mississippi State at LSU
Sylvester Croom's Bullpups plan to come into Baton Rouge and mess up the carpet right good with the Tigers, but they will quickly find out that ain't the smartest thing to try to do. Les Miles and the Tigers are rollin' pretty good, and will promptly get the newspaper out and swat the Dogs - pretty hard, too.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Tennessee at Auburn
The oven is startin' to get hot in Knoxville, and Phil Fulmer and his Volunteers are getting out of town just in time to avoid the heat. Problem is, they get to go into the frying pan when the visit Tommy Tuberville's Tigers. The War Eagle will be a little miffed about last week's business results, and will take great joy in crankin' up the heater for ole' Fulmer.
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
Arkansas at Texas
Bobby Petrino and the Hawgs try to get their tusks back on straight so they can go bully around the Longhorns in Austin Saturday afternoon, but Mack Brown and the Big Bulls will be ready to stampede the pigs in a big way. The Razorbacks are missing a lot of teeth this year, and the Longhorns will finish knockin' out the few ones they have left.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Alabama at Georgia
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide roll into a Black Night in Athens Saturday Night, hopin' to make the Blackout a short one. But Mark Richt and the Dawgs have the keys to the lightswitch, and they ain't about to let the Pachyderms turn any lights on. This one ought be well worth watchin', so if you ain't out at a game, pull up a chair and enjoy this fight.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Alabama
Around The ACC
Virginia at Duke
Al Groh and his Sword Toters head into Durham as an underdog, and they ain't too happy about that. The Cavalier Ship is takin' on water already this season, and if they ain't careful, the Blue Devils will add to the water level. David Cutcliffe and the Blue Lucifers have sharpened up the pitchfork this year, and they will be able to add to the holes in the Virginia boat.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Navy at Wake Forest
The Midshipmen sail into Winston-Salem Saturday afternoon with their gunnery stations aimed square at the Demon Deacons, but will all know it ain't real nice to do that to churchmen. Jim Grobe and the Deacs will dodge the initial shots fired at them, and will end the afternoon with an endzone revival that the hometown fans will be proud of.
Rod's Reject - Navy
Virginia Tech at Nebraska
Frank Beamer and the Hokey Pokes head west for a rare visit with Nebraska, and Bo Pellini will have the Corn Feds ready for the test. The Husker Nation is anxious to see some good, solid, winning football again, and may get a pretty good glimse come Saturday in Lincoln. The Hokies will make it close, but it won't be close enough.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
North Carolina at Miami, Florida
The Blue Billies took a big hit last week when QB TJ Yates went out with an injury, and may take another hit from a Hurricane this week. Randy Shannon and the Big Wind still don't blow in one direction, but they are getting close. And the Big Storm will have enough gust in it this week to blow the Heels back to Chapel Hill - with a loss.
Rod's Reject - North Carolina
South Florida at NC State
Jim Leavitt and the Florida Bulls roll up to Raleigh Saturday - ready to sink their horns into the Wild Dawgs, but Tom O'Brien and his Pack Attack will be too fast for the Bulls to take dead aim on. But it won't be long before the already-wounded Pack tire out and lay down, and that will give the Bulls a chance to finish the job.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Around The Nation
Southern California at Oregon State
The Trojans head up to Beavertown for a Thursday Night clash, and Pete Carroll will certainly have his War Steeds ready for the battle. Mike Riley's Beavers used to have some pretty long teeth, but ain't quite like that anymore, and the Trojans will make sure they knock out what little teeth they have growin'.
Rod's Reject - Oregon State
TCU at Oklahoma
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners pull out the Welcome Wagon for the Horned Frogs, but bad things happen to frogs when they get in the middle of the road. And things ain't gonna be any different for these frogs on Saturday. The Sooners roll - and that ain't gonna be good for TCU.
Rod's Reject - TCU
Illinois at Penn State
Ron Zook's Illini made big splashes last year - but this ain't last year, and the Jo Pa's Nittany Lions will make that point loud and clear Saturday Night in Happy Valley. Penn State will have too much offense for Illinois, though Juice Williams will keep Illinois in striking distance.
Rod's Reject - Illinois
Wisconsin at Michigan
Rich Rodriguez and the Wolverines have struggled some this year, and putting together his type of offense will take some time. But there are times with things come together - and surprises are a result. Bret Bielema and the Badgers will waddle into Ann Arbor Saturday and will be ready to knock off the home team, but the Wolverines will have enough to fend them off - and pull off the upset.
Rod's Reject - Upset Special - Wisconsin
The Big Two
UAB at South Carolina
The Columbia Chicken Farm has been layin' some eggs on offense this year, and if there's a game for them to get on track, it's this Saturday against one of the worst passing defenses in the country. Lots of reasons to keep tabs on this one - can the offense finally work out the kinks? What will Stephen Garcia look like when he plays a lot of the game? Can the USC defense pitch a shutout? Neil Callaway and the Blazers come into Columbia with a dampened flame, and the G-Cocks will finish blowin' it out.
Rod's Reject - UAB
Maryland at Clemson
Ralph Friedgen and the Turtle Crew journey down to Death Valley Saturday for a Lunchtime Gig with the Tigers, and will put a scare into the Orange-clads early. The Terapins will be able to shell-shock the crowd, but it won't last too long. Tommy Bowden and His Pickens County Cats will be able to crack the turtles late in the first half, then the Terps will be on the half-shell for the rest of the afternoon.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Other Losers
Rhode Island will lose to Boston College
Colorado will lose to Florida State
Western Kentucky will lose to Kentucky
Marshall will lose to West Virginia
Syracuse will lose to Pittsburgh
Indiana will lose to Michigan State
Northwestern will lose to Iowa
Akron will lose to Cincinnati
Houston will lose to East Carolina
Purdue will lose to Notre Dame
Stanford will lose to Washington
Minnesota will lose to Ohio State
UCLA will lose to Fresno State
Washington State will lose to Oregon
Army will lose to Texas A&M
Troy will lose to Oklahoma State
Florida International will lose to Toledo
Louisiana-Lafayette will lose to Kansas State
North Texas will lose to Rice
Kent State will lose to Ball State
Friday, September 19, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - Week #4
Well, the little Reject Machine punched out a 33-7 record last week, bringing the yearly total to 93-21.
How will the Gamecocks respond after last week's tough loss? How many points will the Tigers score against SC State? We'll see!
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Vanderbilt at Mississippi
Don't look now - here come the 'Dores!! Bobby Johnson and his Ship Captains take the cruise over to Jackson where they will find a bunch of Rebels with the guns aimed right at 'em. Houston Nutt and his Mutiny Crew will be armed for a full battle assault and will do their best to shoot the Commodore Ship full of lead, and they will hit it enough to leave it bobbin' in the water. Though neither team is ranked, this will be one of the better games this weekend. It will end up being a little bit better for the Rebels.
Rod's Reject - in a slobberknocker - Vanderbilt
Georgia at Arizona State
The Georgia Dawgs pick up the scent of an angry Sun Devil this week as these two teams brawl in Tempe Saturday Night. Dennis Erickson's Dirt Devils hope to show the Dawgs the hot side of town and will be able to apply a few pokes into the Doggie Hide, but it won't be enough. Mark Richt's Bullies will have enough snap in the jowls to take the Devils down.
Rod's Reject - Arizona State
Alabama at Arkansas
Nick Saban and his Pachyderms stampede into Arkansas for a matinee tilt against a bunch of Hawgs, and Bobby Petrino will be ready to go ephalump huntin' and hopin' to bag a big trophy. The two tusked teams will rowl up a lot of dirt come Saturday, and it will take a little bit of time to see who's on top when the dust clears. The first thing you'll see standing is a bruised, wounded, but victorious Bama team.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Florida at Tennessee
Lots to see in this one as the Gainesville Toothy Crew wade up to Knoxville, lookin' to sink their teeth into the Knoxville Navy and the team they root for. Phil Fulmer and his Free Fighters will have all the muskets ready, but will be a little short on the ammunition. They will inflict some damage to Urban Myer's Gators, but it won't be anything more than a few nicks and dings.
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
LSU at Auburn
The Baton Rouge Felines get on the prowl as they head into the Plains Saturday for a late afternoon scrap with their Tiger kin. Lots of fur will be flying in this battle of Top 10 teams, and the last Cat standing with a life left will be the winner. Les Miles will have the Bengal Tigers ready with the claws sharpened, and Tommy Tuberville and his Cat Crew will meet them with equal resistance. Who wins - who loses?
Rod's Rejects - in a close one - LSU
In The ACC
Wake Forest at Florida State
Bobby Bowden and the Semi-holes open up the tee-pee ranch and welcome in the Jim Grobe's Preachermen in what should be a great game in Tallamahassee. The Demon Deacs will say all their prayers before the trip down, but it might not help them come Saturday afternoon. The Seminoles will be ready and will have plenty of traps laying in wait for the visitors - and the Deacs will end up on the wrong end of 'em.
Rod's Reject - Wake Forest
Virginia Tech at North Carolina
The Hokie Pokes fly down to Chapel Hill this weekend with hopes of puttin' a hurtin' on the Goats. But Butch Davis and his Blue Billies will have their horns polished and will be ready to butt the Hokie's back to Blacksburg. Frank Beamer and the Gobblers will scratch around for a while, but will come up a little empty when it counts.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
East Carolina at NC State
Skip Holtz and his Sea Bandit head over to Raleigh lookin' to loot the Wolfpack Den and come out with a victory, but this ain't gonna be as easy as some might think. Tom O'Brien's Wild Dawgs have been backed into a corner and will come out fighting - but they won't have enough to skin the Pirates.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Mississippi St. at Georgia Tech
The Bulldogs stomp into Hotlanta Saturday ready to take a swat at the pesky Yellow Jackets, but will find that it's hard to smack 'em. Paul Johnson's Humble Bumbles will have their stingers ready - and the Bullies won't be fast enough to outrun 'em.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi St.
Miami, Fla at Texas A&M
Randy Shannon and his Big Wind blow into College Station Saturday, but they will find that the Aggie 12th man will be a little tougher than they think. The Aggies will hold up well, but the Hurricanes will huff and puff - and finally blow the Aggie House down.
Rod's Reject - Texas A&M
The Big Two
South Carolina State at Clemson
Death Valley will be the scene Saturday for this dog-n-cat fight and it will be worth watching - for about a half. Buddy Pough's Orangeburg Bullies will make the going hard for the Tigers, but it won't take long for Tommy Bowden and the Pickens County Felines to run the Bulldogs out of town, and won't be hurt too much in the process.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina State
Wofford at South Carolina
The Gamecocks look to put last week's tough loss to Georgia behind them, and they better do it fast because Mike Ayers and his Upstate Bulldogs will be ready to go to work. The Bulldogs average about 400 rushing per game - and will need that average Saturday to have a good chance against the Gamecocks, but I think Steve Spurrier and Ellis Johnson will have the Yard Birds ready for the upstate surge.
Rod's Reject - Wofford
Other Losers
Florida International will lose to South Florida
Florida Atlantic will lose to Minnesota
Troy will lose to Ohio State
San Jose State will lose to Stanford
SMU will lose to TCU
Eastern Michigan will lose to Maryland
Rice will lose to Texas
Army will lose to Akron
New Mexico will lose to Tulsa
Notre Dame will lose to Michigan State
Marshall will lose to Southern Miss
Wyoming will lose to BYU
Miami, Ohio will lose to Cincinnati
Ohio will lose to Northwestern
Temple will lose to Penn St.
UCF will lose to Boston College
How will the Gamecocks respond after last week's tough loss? How many points will the Tigers score against SC State? We'll see!
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Vanderbilt at Mississippi
Don't look now - here come the 'Dores!! Bobby Johnson and his Ship Captains take the cruise over to Jackson where they will find a bunch of Rebels with the guns aimed right at 'em. Houston Nutt and his Mutiny Crew will be armed for a full battle assault and will do their best to shoot the Commodore Ship full of lead, and they will hit it enough to leave it bobbin' in the water. Though neither team is ranked, this will be one of the better games this weekend. It will end up being a little bit better for the Rebels.
Rod's Reject - in a slobberknocker - Vanderbilt
Georgia at Arizona State
The Georgia Dawgs pick up the scent of an angry Sun Devil this week as these two teams brawl in Tempe Saturday Night. Dennis Erickson's Dirt Devils hope to show the Dawgs the hot side of town and will be able to apply a few pokes into the Doggie Hide, but it won't be enough. Mark Richt's Bullies will have enough snap in the jowls to take the Devils down.
Rod's Reject - Arizona State
Alabama at Arkansas
Nick Saban and his Pachyderms stampede into Arkansas for a matinee tilt against a bunch of Hawgs, and Bobby Petrino will be ready to go ephalump huntin' and hopin' to bag a big trophy. The two tusked teams will rowl up a lot of dirt come Saturday, and it will take a little bit of time to see who's on top when the dust clears. The first thing you'll see standing is a bruised, wounded, but victorious Bama team.
Rod's Reject - Arkansas
Florida at Tennessee
Lots to see in this one as the Gainesville Toothy Crew wade up to Knoxville, lookin' to sink their teeth into the Knoxville Navy and the team they root for. Phil Fulmer and his Free Fighters will have all the muskets ready, but will be a little short on the ammunition. They will inflict some damage to Urban Myer's Gators, but it won't be anything more than a few nicks and dings.
Rod's Reject - Tennessee
LSU at Auburn
The Baton Rouge Felines get on the prowl as they head into the Plains Saturday for a late afternoon scrap with their Tiger kin. Lots of fur will be flying in this battle of Top 10 teams, and the last Cat standing with a life left will be the winner. Les Miles will have the Bengal Tigers ready with the claws sharpened, and Tommy Tuberville and his Cat Crew will meet them with equal resistance. Who wins - who loses?
Rod's Rejects - in a close one - LSU
In The ACC
Wake Forest at Florida State
Bobby Bowden and the Semi-holes open up the tee-pee ranch and welcome in the Jim Grobe's Preachermen in what should be a great game in Tallamahassee. The Demon Deacs will say all their prayers before the trip down, but it might not help them come Saturday afternoon. The Seminoles will be ready and will have plenty of traps laying in wait for the visitors - and the Deacs will end up on the wrong end of 'em.
Rod's Reject - Wake Forest
Virginia Tech at North Carolina
The Hokie Pokes fly down to Chapel Hill this weekend with hopes of puttin' a hurtin' on the Goats. But Butch Davis and his Blue Billies will have their horns polished and will be ready to butt the Hokie's back to Blacksburg. Frank Beamer and the Gobblers will scratch around for a while, but will come up a little empty when it counts.
Rod's Reject - Virginia Tech
East Carolina at NC State
Skip Holtz and his Sea Bandit head over to Raleigh lookin' to loot the Wolfpack Den and come out with a victory, but this ain't gonna be as easy as some might think. Tom O'Brien's Wild Dawgs have been backed into a corner and will come out fighting - but they won't have enough to skin the Pirates.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Mississippi St. at Georgia Tech
The Bulldogs stomp into Hotlanta Saturday ready to take a swat at the pesky Yellow Jackets, but will find that it's hard to smack 'em. Paul Johnson's Humble Bumbles will have their stingers ready - and the Bullies won't be fast enough to outrun 'em.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi St.
Miami, Fla at Texas A&M
Randy Shannon and his Big Wind blow into College Station Saturday, but they will find that the Aggie 12th man will be a little tougher than they think. The Aggies will hold up well, but the Hurricanes will huff and puff - and finally blow the Aggie House down.
Rod's Reject - Texas A&M
The Big Two
South Carolina State at Clemson
Death Valley will be the scene Saturday for this dog-n-cat fight and it will be worth watching - for about a half. Buddy Pough's Orangeburg Bullies will make the going hard for the Tigers, but it won't take long for Tommy Bowden and the Pickens County Felines to run the Bulldogs out of town, and won't be hurt too much in the process.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina State
Wofford at South Carolina
The Gamecocks look to put last week's tough loss to Georgia behind them, and they better do it fast because Mike Ayers and his Upstate Bulldogs will be ready to go to work. The Bulldogs average about 400 rushing per game - and will need that average Saturday to have a good chance against the Gamecocks, but I think Steve Spurrier and Ellis Johnson will have the Yard Birds ready for the upstate surge.
Rod's Reject - Wofford
Other Losers
Florida International will lose to South Florida
Florida Atlantic will lose to Minnesota
Troy will lose to Ohio State
San Jose State will lose to Stanford
SMU will lose to TCU
Eastern Michigan will lose to Maryland
Rice will lose to Texas
Army will lose to Akron
New Mexico will lose to Tulsa
Notre Dame will lose to Michigan State
Marshall will lose to Southern Miss
Wyoming will lose to BYU
Miami, Ohio will lose to Cincinnati
Ohio will lose to Northwestern
Temple will lose to Penn St.
UCF will lose to Boston College
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Rod's Rejects - College Football Picks - Week #3
Well, week #2 had more ups than downs, and a few surprises, too. East Carolina continues to shock the football world, but will it last? Clemson got back on the winning track, and the Gamecocks coughed one up at Vandy.
Last week's Rejects went 33-7. Two-week total is now 60-14.
What shockers are out there this week? We'll have to see.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Auburn at Mississippi State
Tommy Tuberville and his War Eagle swoop into Bulldog Country Saturday afternoon lookin' to bury a few claws into Sylvester Croom's hound hind parts. The Dogs will be able to guard the home turf - for a while. But when all is said and done, Mississippi State will have too many scratches and scars, and the Birds fly home a winner.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Rice at Vanderbilt
Who'd a thunk it - Bobby Johnson's Ship Steerers have a chance to start of the 2008 season with a 3-0 record. But the Rice Owls don't give a hoot about any Commodore achievement, and will come into Nashville Saturday ready to show the Vandy crowd whooooo is boss. But they ain't gonna have enough feathers to protect themselves from the Commodore Cannons.
Rod's Reject - Rice
Middle Tennessee at Kentucky
Rick Stockstill and his MT Blue Raiders march into Kentucky Saturday, lookin' to steal the treasure from Rich Brooks and his Wildcats. The Raider Crew went undercover into Maryland last weekend and knocked off the Terrapins, but this bunch of Cats ain't gonna be as easy to steal one against. Kentucky is rebuilding a little this year, and a 2-0 start goes a long way toward putting the blocks in place for a good year. Going 3-0 sounds even better.
Rod's Reject - Middle Tennessee
Rod's Reject - UAB
In The ACC
California at Maryland
The Berkeley Bear Crew heads across country to Maryland for a Saturday afternoon hunt in College Park, and Ground Turtle will be on the menu. Ralph Friedgen's Terps are headin' for a long season, and the Bears are only gonna make it longer.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Virginia at Connecticut
Al Groh's Sword Toters head up North to do battle with a bunch of Huskies, but these hounds ain't gonna be too easy to pen up. Randy Edall's Blue Hounds lost a close one last year to Virginia last year - but this ain't last year. The Cavaliers will come away from this one with some broken up swords - and a lot of hurt pride.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech
The Battle of the Tech Schools takes place in Blacksburg Saturday, and the Humble Bumbles from Atlanta plan to make a big swarm attack on the Hokie host. But Frank Beamer and his bunch of Gobblers know how to shoo away such pest, and they will do so. But pest are pest for a reason - they don't go away real easily.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Georgia Tech
Navy at Duke
The Durham Devils get another chance this week for the 2nd win of the season, and David Cutcliffe will have the Blue Pokers sharpened and ready. The Midshipman will always cause some trouble, and hope to sink Duke's hopes of having a decent season. But the Devils have a little mojo workin' this season, and they don't want the Middies to upset their plans.
Rod's Reject - Navy
National Games
Michigan at Notre Dame
Rich Rodriguez and his Wolverines head into Hail Mary Town to do work against the Irish in a battle of NON-Top 25 teams. Charlie Weis and the Irish had to hold on for a win last week to beat powerhouse San Diego State, and that was supposed to be an easy tune-up. Michigan is struggling a little, too, but will have just enough to get past Notre Dame on Saturday.
Rod's Reject - Notre Dame
Kansas at South Florida (Friday Night)
This Top 25 game takes place Friday Night down in Tampa, and Jim Leavitt's Green Toros look to have some Friday Fun by stickin' a horn in the Jayhawks. Mark Mangino and his Birds have the firepower to come out of the Sunshine State with a win, and it will look like things will work out for them for a while. But the Bulls will hang on for a close win, sending the hometown crowd home happy.
Rod's Reject - Kansas
East Carolina at Tulane
Skip Holtz and the Ship Bandits head into a stiff breeze Saturday at Tulane, and the warning flags should be flappin' when they get there. The Pirates have looted a few good teams early on, and they better make sure they don't get too happy with their treasures they've gotten because somebody may be ready to steal it back from them. Bob Toledo and the Wave will make things a little wavy for the Pirates, but these swashbucklers know how to handle the rough water, and the Pirates will end up some more goodies in their treasure chest.
Rod's Reject - Tulane
Ohio State at Southern California
The Buckeyes head west for a sure-fire slobberknocker as they set their sights on a California upset. Jim Tressel's bunch of Buckeyes will try to put a lot of dents in the Trojan's armor and will succeed - to a point. Pete Carroll and his Horse Riders will take a few shots, but will have more than enough protection on to fend off any lethal blows.
Rod's Reject - Ohio State
The Big Two
N.C. State at Clemson (Noon Kickoff)
Tom O'Brien's Raleigh Wolfpack head down to Death Valley Saturday with hopes of having big enough teeth to squeeze the life out of the Tigers. But they will get a surprise when they get there. Tommy Bowden's Felines have already lost one of their 9 lives this years, and they ain't about to lose another one - at least to N.C. State. The Tigers will put the hammer down early and often, and will make the Wild Dogs tuck tail and head back to Raleigh - without a lot of their fur intact.
Rod's Reject - N.C. State
Georgia at South Carolina (3:30 Kickoff)
Mark Richt and his Bulldogs make the short trip over to the Chicken Farm Saturday, lookin' to wring the necks of Steve Spurrier's Yard Birds. This is the first SEC game for Georgia, and fur and feathers oughta fly most of the day. This game is always worth the money, and this year won't be an exception. But the Gamecocks are a little short on the ammo side, and won't be able to scratch much against a tough Dawg Defense. The Dawgs have the bigger teeth, and that will make for a lot of feathers to be left all over the field when the final horn sounds.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina
Other Losers
Nevada will lose to Missouri
SMU will lose to Texas Tech
New Mexico State will lose to Nebraska
UCLA will lose to BYU
Purdue will lose to Oregon
Hawaii will lose to Oregon State
Syracuse will lose to Penn State
Iowa State will lose to Iowa
Stanford will lose to TCU
Temple will lose to Buffalo
Washington will lose to Oklahoma
New Mexico will lose to Arizona
Bowling Green will lose to Boise State
Utah State will lose to Utah
UNLV will lose to Arizona State
Florida Atlantic will lose to Michigan State
Western Kentucky will lose to Alabama
North Texas will lose to LSU
Samford will lose to Mississippi
Chattanooga will lose to Florida State
Last week's Rejects went 33-7. Two-week total is now 60-14.
What shockers are out there this week? We'll have to see.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Auburn at Mississippi State
Tommy Tuberville and his War Eagle swoop into Bulldog Country Saturday afternoon lookin' to bury a few claws into Sylvester Croom's hound hind parts. The Dogs will be able to guard the home turf - for a while. But when all is said and done, Mississippi State will have too many scratches and scars, and the Birds fly home a winner.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi State
Rice at Vanderbilt
Who'd a thunk it - Bobby Johnson's Ship Steerers have a chance to start of the 2008 season with a 3-0 record. But the Rice Owls don't give a hoot about any Commodore achievement, and will come into Nashville Saturday ready to show the Vandy crowd whooooo is boss. But they ain't gonna have enough feathers to protect themselves from the Commodore Cannons.
Rod's Reject - Rice
Middle Tennessee at Kentucky
Rick Stockstill and his MT Blue Raiders march into Kentucky Saturday, lookin' to steal the treasure from Rich Brooks and his Wildcats. The Raider Crew went undercover into Maryland last weekend and knocked off the Terrapins, but this bunch of Cats ain't gonna be as easy to steal one against. Kentucky is rebuilding a little this year, and a 2-0 start goes a long way toward putting the blocks in place for a good year. Going 3-0 sounds even better.
Rod's Reject - Middle Tennessee
UAB at Tennessee
The Volunteers return home from an opening-season loss to UCLA, aimin' to get the muskets turned in the right direction. Neil Calloway's Birmingham Blazers make a real good target and won't be able to dodge all of Phil Fulmer's ammunition. The Musket Toters make quick work of the Blazers, and won't have to use a lot of gun powder to do it.Rod's Reject - UAB
In The ACC
California at Maryland
The Berkeley Bear Crew heads across country to Maryland for a Saturday afternoon hunt in College Park, and Ground Turtle will be on the menu. Ralph Friedgen's Terps are headin' for a long season, and the Bears are only gonna make it longer.
Rod's Reject - Maryland
Virginia at Connecticut
Al Groh's Sword Toters head up North to do battle with a bunch of Huskies, but these hounds ain't gonna be too easy to pen up. Randy Edall's Blue Hounds lost a close one last year to Virginia last year - but this ain't last year. The Cavaliers will come away from this one with some broken up swords - and a lot of hurt pride.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech
The Battle of the Tech Schools takes place in Blacksburg Saturday, and the Humble Bumbles from Atlanta plan to make a big swarm attack on the Hokie host. But Frank Beamer and his bunch of Gobblers know how to shoo away such pest, and they will do so. But pest are pest for a reason - they don't go away real easily.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Georgia Tech
Navy at Duke
The Durham Devils get another chance this week for the 2nd win of the season, and David Cutcliffe will have the Blue Pokers sharpened and ready. The Midshipman will always cause some trouble, and hope to sink Duke's hopes of having a decent season. But the Devils have a little mojo workin' this season, and they don't want the Middies to upset their plans.
Rod's Reject - Navy
National Games
Michigan at Notre Dame
Rich Rodriguez and his Wolverines head into Hail Mary Town to do work against the Irish in a battle of NON-Top 25 teams. Charlie Weis and the Irish had to hold on for a win last week to beat powerhouse San Diego State, and that was supposed to be an easy tune-up. Michigan is struggling a little, too, but will have just enough to get past Notre Dame on Saturday.
Rod's Reject - Notre Dame
Kansas at South Florida (Friday Night)
This Top 25 game takes place Friday Night down in Tampa, and Jim Leavitt's Green Toros look to have some Friday Fun by stickin' a horn in the Jayhawks. Mark Mangino and his Birds have the firepower to come out of the Sunshine State with a win, and it will look like things will work out for them for a while. But the Bulls will hang on for a close win, sending the hometown crowd home happy.
Rod's Reject - Kansas
East Carolina at Tulane
Skip Holtz and the Ship Bandits head into a stiff breeze Saturday at Tulane, and the warning flags should be flappin' when they get there. The Pirates have looted a few good teams early on, and they better make sure they don't get too happy with their treasures they've gotten because somebody may be ready to steal it back from them. Bob Toledo and the Wave will make things a little wavy for the Pirates, but these swashbucklers know how to handle the rough water, and the Pirates will end up some more goodies in their treasure chest.
Rod's Reject - Tulane
Ohio State at Southern California
The Buckeyes head west for a sure-fire slobberknocker as they set their sights on a California upset. Jim Tressel's bunch of Buckeyes will try to put a lot of dents in the Trojan's armor and will succeed - to a point. Pete Carroll and his Horse Riders will take a few shots, but will have more than enough protection on to fend off any lethal blows.
Rod's Reject - Ohio State
The Big Two
N.C. State at Clemson (Noon Kickoff)
Tom O'Brien's Raleigh Wolfpack head down to Death Valley Saturday with hopes of having big enough teeth to squeeze the life out of the Tigers. But they will get a surprise when they get there. Tommy Bowden's Felines have already lost one of their 9 lives this years, and they ain't about to lose another one - at least to N.C. State. The Tigers will put the hammer down early and often, and will make the Wild Dogs tuck tail and head back to Raleigh - without a lot of their fur intact.
Rod's Reject - N.C. State
Georgia at South Carolina (3:30 Kickoff)
Mark Richt and his Bulldogs make the short trip over to the Chicken Farm Saturday, lookin' to wring the necks of Steve Spurrier's Yard Birds. This is the first SEC game for Georgia, and fur and feathers oughta fly most of the day. This game is always worth the money, and this year won't be an exception. But the Gamecocks are a little short on the ammo side, and won't be able to scratch much against a tough Dawg Defense. The Dawgs have the bigger teeth, and that will make for a lot of feathers to be left all over the field when the final horn sounds.
Rod's Reject - South Carolina
Other Losers
Nevada will lose to Missouri
SMU will lose to Texas Tech
New Mexico State will lose to Nebraska
UCLA will lose to BYU
Purdue will lose to Oregon
Hawaii will lose to Oregon State
Syracuse will lose to Penn State
Iowa State will lose to Iowa
Stanford will lose to TCU
Temple will lose to Buffalo
Washington will lose to Oklahoma
New Mexico will lose to Arizona
Bowling Green will lose to Boise State
Utah State will lose to Utah
UNLV will lose to Arizona State
Florida Atlantic will lose to Michigan State
Western Kentucky will lose to Alabama
North Texas will lose to LSU
Samford will lose to Mississippi
Chattanooga will lose to Florida State
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Rod's Rejects - Week #2 - College Football Picks
Well, week #1 was a success - sort of. I guess it depends on who you ask.
Skip Holtz and his Pirates pulled off a nice upset, Michigan was Michigan, and Clemson surprised me a lot with how they played.
Overall record for week #1, the picks were 27-7. Hopefully, we'll get a few more right this week.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Southern Mississippi at Auburn
The Battle of the War Birds. Both teams opened up their seasons with convincing victories last Saturday and both hope for another win come Saturday night. But Larry Fedora's Golden Eagles ain't quite got the claws on 'em like Tommy Tuberville's birds, and that will be evident early on in the game. Auburn's got their eyes on LSU in two weeks, but will take care of business until then.
Rod's Reject - Southern Mississippi
Central Michigan at Georgia
The Dawgs dominated at Sanford Stadium last Saturday, and Mark Richt's Hound Crew will look for a repeat performance this week. Butch Jones and the Chippewas hope to make big headlines between The Hedges - and they will - for all the wrong reasons. Georgia continues to tune up for next week's Bash at the Brice against the G-Cocks.
Rod's Reject - Central Michigan
Tulane at Alabama
The Green Wave blow into Tuscaloosa hopin' to bag a big pachyderm, but Nick Saban's Tide Crew will take the wind out of the sails before the storm even arrives. 'Bama shocked the country last weekend with a thrashing of #9 Clemson, and I don't think it was a fluke. The Tide battens down the hatches, but their really won't be much threat of a storm.
Rod's Reject - Tulane
Miami, Fla at Florida
The Canes and Head Coach Randy Shannon have a lot of redemption planned this year, and hope to show up on the Doppler Radar when they roll into Gainesville this Saturday. But Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew have stored up lots of goodies for the storm and will hold up well when the Hurricane's blow in. The Gators short-circuit the wind, then make preparations for next week's game vs. Tennessee.
Rod's Reject - Miami, Fla.
In The ACC
Mississippi at Wake Forest
Houston Nutt and the Rebels bring the troops to Winston-Salem, ready to unload the muskets on Jim Grobe's bunch of Preachermen. And they will make it interesting for a while. But the Deac's won't let to many bullets hit the target, and the congregation will be happy once the final hymns are sung. But it ain't gonna be easy.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Northwestern at Duke
Don't look now, but the Dukies might have something going in football. The Blue Devils have not won their first two games of a season since 1998. Their second win that season? A 44-10 romp over Northwestern. David Cutcliffe will get their blue pitchforks bent a good bit this year, but will have enough sharp edges this week to get Duke another win. Don't look now, ACC, but here come the Devils.
Rod's Reject - Northwestern
Western Carolina at Florida State
Dennis Wagner and the Cats from Cullowee invade Tallahassee on Saturday, hopin' to make a furball out of the Seminoles. But Bobby Bowden and the hometown Tribe ain't gonna be such good hosts for the visitors. Florida State is ready to get back into the big picture in college football, and a de-clawing of the Cats is a good way to start.
Rod's Reject - Western Carolina
Furman at Virginia Tech
Frank Beamer and the Hokie's will try to put all their feathers back in place in Blacksburg Saturday, but the Purple Paladins from Greenville don't want to be front-n-center for the event. The Hokie O has a lot of work to do and should get some good reps in against Furman, but don't be surprised if this one is a lot closer than you think.
Rod's Reject - Furman
Georgia Tech at Boston College
The Yellow Bumbles rumbled for 349 rushing yards against the JSU Gamecocks, and now must take the Flight of the Bumblebee up to Chestnut Hill for a Saturday tilt with Boston College. Paul Johnson's Yellow Jackets didn't take too long to learn a new offense, but will have a tough test with it against the Eagles. Jeff Jagodzinski's Birds will look to defend the home nest, and many feathers will fly in accomplishing the task. This oughta be one of the best in the ACC this weekend.
Rod's Reject - in a great game - Georgia Tech
National Games
Rod's Rejct - Central Florida
West Virginia at East Carolina
Skip Holtz and his Boat Bandits put the kebosh on Virginia Tech last week, playing it's own version of Beamer Ball to come away with the upset. It will be tough for the Pirates to hit the daily double, but they will put a scare into the Musket Toters from Morgantown on Saturday. New Head Coach Bill Stewart marches his Mountaineers into hostile territory in what will be a doozy of a game. When all is said and done, the Pirates will be conquered, but both will be wounded.
Rod's Reject - East Carolina
Cincinnati at Oklahoma
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners lay out all the traps this weekend Brian Kelly's Bearcats, and there will be more traps than the Bearcats can miss. Fur will fly and all the Schooner wheels stay on the wagon and Oklahoma continues its march to the National Title.
Rod's Reject - Cincinnati
The Big Two
The Citadel at Clemson
Things didn't get off to such a good start for Tommy Bowden's Tigers last week, and some of the wounds will still be fresh come Saturday when Kevin Higgins Charleston Bulldogs roll into the Valley. However, there's a long way to go in this young season, and the Striped Cats will try to refocus on winning the ACC. The Citadel ain't just gonna roller over or go fetchin' for the Tigers, but they will run out of tricks before the final horn sounds. Redemption Week #1 for the Tigers is a success.
Rod's Reject - The Citadel
South Carolina at Vanderbilt (Thursday Night)
The Yard Birds fly into Nashville Thursday night to try to put a spur in the rear of Bobby Johnson's Ship Steerers, but Steve Spurrier and the Cocks will find that Vandy will have their swords ready and will be game for the fight. The Commodores sunk USC's ship last year, and hope for a repeat, and may have enough ammo in the guns to get the job done. But it's hard to win the water war when the ship won't move, and the Gamecock defense will be able to put the anchor down on Vandy - at least long enough to get the win.
Rod's Reject - Vanderbilt
Other Losers
Texas-El Paso will lose to Texas
Stanford will lose to Arizona State
Nevada will lose to Texas Tech
William and Mary will lose to NC State
Louisiana-Monroe will lose to Arkansas
Louisiana Tech will lose to Kansas
Middle Tennessee will lose to Maryland
Southeastern Louisiana will lose to Mississippi St.
SE Missouri St. will lose to Missouri
Houston will lose to Oklahoma St.
New Hampshire will lose to Army
Tennessee Tech will lose to Louisville
San Diego State will lose to Notre Dame
Utah State will lose to Oregon
Oregon State will lose to Penn St.
Richmond will lose to Virginia
UAB will lose to Florida Atlantic
Ball State will lose to Navy
Eastern Illinois will lose to Illinois
Florida International will lose to Iowa
Miami, Ohio will lose to Michigan
Eastern Michigan will lose to Michigan St.
Ohio will lose to Ohio St.
Northern Colorado will lose to Purdue
Marshall will lose to Wisconsin
San Jose St. will lose to Nebraska
Skip Holtz and his Pirates pulled off a nice upset, Michigan was Michigan, and Clemson surprised me a lot with how they played.
Overall record for week #1, the picks were 27-7. Hopefully, we'll get a few more right this week.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Southern Mississippi at Auburn
The Battle of the War Birds. Both teams opened up their seasons with convincing victories last Saturday and both hope for another win come Saturday night. But Larry Fedora's Golden Eagles ain't quite got the claws on 'em like Tommy Tuberville's birds, and that will be evident early on in the game. Auburn's got their eyes on LSU in two weeks, but will take care of business until then.
Rod's Reject - Southern Mississippi
Central Michigan at Georgia
The Dawgs dominated at Sanford Stadium last Saturday, and Mark Richt's Hound Crew will look for a repeat performance this week. Butch Jones and the Chippewas hope to make big headlines between The Hedges - and they will - for all the wrong reasons. Georgia continues to tune up for next week's Bash at the Brice against the G-Cocks.
Rod's Reject - Central Michigan
Tulane at Alabama
The Green Wave blow into Tuscaloosa hopin' to bag a big pachyderm, but Nick Saban's Tide Crew will take the wind out of the sails before the storm even arrives. 'Bama shocked the country last weekend with a thrashing of #9 Clemson, and I don't think it was a fluke. The Tide battens down the hatches, but their really won't be much threat of a storm.
Rod's Reject - Tulane
Miami, Fla at Florida
The Canes and Head Coach Randy Shannon have a lot of redemption planned this year, and hope to show up on the Doppler Radar when they roll into Gainesville this Saturday. But Urban Meyer and the Toothy Crew have stored up lots of goodies for the storm and will hold up well when the Hurricane's blow in. The Gators short-circuit the wind, then make preparations for next week's game vs. Tennessee.
Rod's Reject - Miami, Fla.
In The ACC
Mississippi at Wake Forest
Houston Nutt and the Rebels bring the troops to Winston-Salem, ready to unload the muskets on Jim Grobe's bunch of Preachermen. And they will make it interesting for a while. But the Deac's won't let to many bullets hit the target, and the congregation will be happy once the final hymns are sung. But it ain't gonna be easy.
Rod's Reject - Mississippi
Northwestern at Duke
Don't look now, but the Dukies might have something going in football. The Blue Devils have not won their first two games of a season since 1998. Their second win that season? A 44-10 romp over Northwestern. David Cutcliffe will get their blue pitchforks bent a good bit this year, but will have enough sharp edges this week to get Duke another win. Don't look now, ACC, but here come the Devils.
Rod's Reject - Northwestern
Western Carolina at Florida State
Dennis Wagner and the Cats from Cullowee invade Tallahassee on Saturday, hopin' to make a furball out of the Seminoles. But Bobby Bowden and the hometown Tribe ain't gonna be such good hosts for the visitors. Florida State is ready to get back into the big picture in college football, and a de-clawing of the Cats is a good way to start.
Rod's Reject - Western Carolina
Furman at Virginia Tech
Frank Beamer and the Hokie's will try to put all their feathers back in place in Blacksburg Saturday, but the Purple Paladins from Greenville don't want to be front-n-center for the event. The Hokie O has a lot of work to do and should get some good reps in against Furman, but don't be surprised if this one is a lot closer than you think.
Rod's Reject - Furman
Georgia Tech at Boston College
The Yellow Bumbles rumbled for 349 rushing yards against the JSU Gamecocks, and now must take the Flight of the Bumblebee up to Chestnut Hill for a Saturday tilt with Boston College. Paul Johnson's Yellow Jackets didn't take too long to learn a new offense, but will have a tough test with it against the Eagles. Jeff Jagodzinski's Birds will look to defend the home nest, and many feathers will fly in accomplishing the task. This oughta be one of the best in the ACC this weekend.
Rod's Reject - in a great game - Georgia Tech
National Games
South Florida at Central Florida
A Sunshine State showdown in Orlando sees Jim Leavitt's Bulls hookin' up for a rodeo against George O'Leary's Knights, and the Bulls will show up will sharp horns, ready to ding up the armor. The Knights look like a pretty good bunch this year, but they won't be able to stay on the Bull for 8 seconds this Saturday.Rod's Rejct - Central Florida
West Virginia at East Carolina
Skip Holtz and his Boat Bandits put the kebosh on Virginia Tech last week, playing it's own version of Beamer Ball to come away with the upset. It will be tough for the Pirates to hit the daily double, but they will put a scare into the Musket Toters from Morgantown on Saturday. New Head Coach Bill Stewart marches his Mountaineers into hostile territory in what will be a doozy of a game. When all is said and done, the Pirates will be conquered, but both will be wounded.
Rod's Reject - East Carolina
Cincinnati at Oklahoma
Bob Stoops and the Sooner Schooners lay out all the traps this weekend Brian Kelly's Bearcats, and there will be more traps than the Bearcats can miss. Fur will fly and all the Schooner wheels stay on the wagon and Oklahoma continues its march to the National Title.
Rod's Reject - Cincinnati
The Big Two
The Citadel at Clemson
Things didn't get off to such a good start for Tommy Bowden's Tigers last week, and some of the wounds will still be fresh come Saturday when Kevin Higgins Charleston Bulldogs roll into the Valley. However, there's a long way to go in this young season, and the Striped Cats will try to refocus on winning the ACC. The Citadel ain't just gonna roller over or go fetchin' for the Tigers, but they will run out of tricks before the final horn sounds. Redemption Week #1 for the Tigers is a success.
Rod's Reject - The Citadel
South Carolina at Vanderbilt (Thursday Night)
The Yard Birds fly into Nashville Thursday night to try to put a spur in the rear of Bobby Johnson's Ship Steerers, but Steve Spurrier and the Cocks will find that Vandy will have their swords ready and will be game for the fight. The Commodores sunk USC's ship last year, and hope for a repeat, and may have enough ammo in the guns to get the job done. But it's hard to win the water war when the ship won't move, and the Gamecock defense will be able to put the anchor down on Vandy - at least long enough to get the win.
Rod's Reject - Vanderbilt
Other Losers
Texas-El Paso will lose to Texas
Stanford will lose to Arizona State
Nevada will lose to Texas Tech
William and Mary will lose to NC State
Louisiana-Monroe will lose to Arkansas
Louisiana Tech will lose to Kansas
Middle Tennessee will lose to Maryland
Southeastern Louisiana will lose to Mississippi St.
SE Missouri St. will lose to Missouri
Houston will lose to Oklahoma St.
New Hampshire will lose to Army
Tennessee Tech will lose to Louisville
San Diego State will lose to Notre Dame
Utah State will lose to Oregon
Oregon State will lose to Penn St.
Richmond will lose to Virginia
UAB will lose to Florida Atlantic
Ball State will lose to Navy
Eastern Illinois will lose to Illinois
Florida International will lose to Iowa
Miami, Ohio will lose to Michigan
Eastern Michigan will lose to Michigan St.
Ohio will lose to Ohio St.
Northern Colorado will lose to Purdue
Marshall will lose to Wisconsin
San Jose St. will lose to Nebraska
Monday, August 25, 2008
Rod's Rejects Week #1 - College Football Picks
Welcome everybody to the 2008 version of Rod's Rejects. Here, we pick the losers of the week's best SEC, ACC, and national football games.
For lots of reasons, the reject crew didn't pick the games last year, but now we're back with a vengeance.
The Rejects are the losers - and there will be plenty of them this year.
In full disclosure, I've been a Gamecock fan since I was kneehigh to a cricket. However, I've always tried to predict all the games realistically. And so it will continue.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
For lots of reasons, the reject crew didn't pick the games last year, but now we're back with a vengeance.
The Rejects are the losers - and there will be plenty of them this year.
In full disclosure, I've been a Gamecock fan since I was kneehigh to a cricket. However, I've always tried to predict all the games realistically. And so it will continue.
On to this week's games.
In the SEC
Georgia Southern at Georgia
Mark Richt's Dawgs are top notch this year and are looking to break in the season with a whoopin' of the Eagles and a first victory for the new UGA. Chris Hatcher's Bird Crew will be lookin' to pull a national shocker, but will only get de-feathered in the process. The Dawgs make early believers out of the college football nation with a good-ole Sanford Stadium woodsheddin'.
Rod's Reject - Georgia Southern
Kentucky at Louisville
The Wildcats have had a good run recently, but they're missing a lot of claws this year. And to have to start the season playing at Louisville is not doing them any favors. Steve Kragthorpe and his Red Birds are tryin' to get the UL program back in gear, and think a good spankin' of in-state rival UK will do the trick. Rich Brooks and the Cats put up a good fight, but will use up all of their nine lives in the process.
Rod's Reject - in a close one - Kentucky
Tennessee at UCLA
Phil Fulmer's musket-toters head west, hopin' to get out of Cali with a quick win. But they're gonna run into a feisty bunch of Bruins who ain't gonna want them to get it. Things were lookin' pretty good for Rick Neuheisel's Blue and Gold bears until some of the fur started comin' off with some key injuries. But Tennessee has a few issues to resolve, too, so this one will be a slobber-knocker til the end.
Rod's Reject - UCLA
Appalachian State at LSU
Well, Jerry Moore's Mountain Boys shocked the world last year with a season-opening win at Michigan, but it wasn't a shock to them. And this year, they go for the daily double - this time against LSU. Les Miles and the Batawn Rouge Felines ain't about to let the Mountaineers make headlines again (I don't think, anyway). A little closer than expected, but the home crowd will go home happy.
Rod's Reject - Appy State
Memphis at Mississippi
The Tiggers from Memphis rumble into Oxford, ready to give Houston Nutt his first Rebel loss. But this ole' nut will be tough to crack, and the Confederate Crew will be ready to make an early season statement to the hometown fans. Tommy West and the Cats will be in this one for a while, but will run out of fur by game's end.
Rod's Reject - Memphis
In The ACC
Southern California at Virginia
The Trojan's head east for an opening joust with the Cavaliers, and Al Groh's sword-toters are gonna be ready. But Pete Carroll and the Horse Riders have been down these roads before, and know that Virginia will bring the full load - but it ain't gonna be enough.
Rod's Reject - Virginia
James Madison at Duke
Why is this one on the board this week? Well, kind of a shortage of good ACC games - but, it is also the first game for David Cutcliffe coaching the Blue Devils. Mickey Mathews and the Harrisonburg Dukes will try to get into Durham and steal the Big Blue Poker from the Lucifers, but will end up being the one with a couple of holes poked in 'em.
Rod's Reject - James Madison
Wake Forest at Baylor (Thursday Night)
Jim Grobe's Preachermen take the tent revival to Waco, Texas, hopin' to make believers out of the Art Briles' Bear Den, but Deacons run fast in this part of the world, and the Bears won't be fast enough to catch 'em. But don't breathe too easy, Deac Fans...Art Briles will throw it around the yard a good bit, and will make this one pretty interesting.
Rod's Reject - Baylor
Virginia Tech at East Carolina
The Hokey Pokes from Blacksburg head south to take on a bunch of Pirates ready to pull an upset. Skip Holtz and the Sea Bandits will have the crowd believin' that it's gonna happen, too, but Beamer Ball rules in the end, and the VT defense comes up big.
Rod's Reject - East Carolina
Charleston Southern at Miami, Fla.
The Big Wind from Coral Gables is ready to get their storm straightened out this year, and the Buccaneers from Charleston will be just what the Canes need to get the year started. Jay Mills and the Bucs won't back down - and ain't gonna be skeered, but the Canes will have way too much punch and will end this one early.
Rod's Reject - Charleston Southern
National Games
Western Michigan at Nebraska
The day of hope has come for Cornhusker fans as the Bo Pellini era begins in Lincoln. The Broncos from Kalamazoo saddle up to do battle with the Corn Feds, but will end up getting branded faster than Bubba shuckin' an ear of midwest corn. Don't look for a super-great turnaround for Nebraska this year, but it ain't gonna be near as bad or ugly as it got last year.
Rod's Reject - Western Michigan
Illinois at Missouri
Illinois turned some heads last year with a 9-3 season, and the Zooksters from Champaign are ready for the encore. But the crowd ain't gonna be hollerin' Bravo at Mizzou this Saturday, and Gary Pinkel's Cats will be ready to put an end to the show. This one was close last year, and will be tight again this year - but the result will be the same.
Rod's Reject - Illinois
Washington at Oregon
Tyrone Willingham's Big Dogs stumbled to 4 wins last year, but lost a lot of close ones along the way. Saturday, they sled over to Eugene, lookin' to sink their teeth into some pond birds. But, Mark Bellotti's green and gold Ducks ain't aimin' to be on anybody's supper table anytime soon. The Ducks fly high in week one, and the Husky's are left to lick their wounds.
Rod's Reject - Washington
The Big Two
Alabama vs Clemson in Atlanta
The Crimson Tide faithful are ready to re-assert Alabama Dominance, and Nick Saban that the Herd are headin' to Atlanta to make the fans happy and make that happen. But when they get there, they're gonna get ripped in the mouth by a bunch of Tigers who are tired of hearing about how they don't finish the job. Tommy Bowden and his Picken's County Cats are ready for big things this year, and they ain't about to let some bunch of Tide Box, Tissue Rollers throw a kink in the plans. The Tigs have too much talent and prove it in Hotlanta Saturday night.
Rod's Reject - Alabama
NC State at South Carolina (Thursday Night)
Williams-Brice will be the scene for Kickoff 2008 as the college football gets underway in Columbia Thursday Night. Tom O'Brien and The Red Dawgs from Raleigh have sharpened up the claws and the fangs and will be ready to draw blood from Steve Spurrier's Yardbirds, but this ain't the same bunch of Chickens that left the field in late November last year. The Cock Crew will start slow on the o-side, and the defense will keep things going until they finally put a stake in the Wolfpack. The Garnet-n-Black go home happy - the Wolfpack go home black and blue.
Rod's Reject - NC State
Other Losers
Jacksonville State will lose to Georgia Tech
Vanderbilt will lose to Miami, Ohio
Youngstown State will lose to Ohio State
Akron will lose to Wisconsin
Coastal Carolina will lose to Penn State
Bowling Green will lose to Pittsburgh
Hawaii will lose to Florida
Villanova will lose to West Virginia
Delaware will lose to Maryland
Northern Iowa will lose to Brigham Young
Chattanooga will lose to Oklahoma
Louisiana-Monroe will lose to Auburn
Florida Atlantic will lose to Texas
Eastern Michigan will lose to Texas Tech
Florida International will lose to Kansas
Western Illinois will lose to Arkansas
Arkansas State will lose to Texas A&M
Tennessee-Martin will lose to South Florida
Northern Arizona will lose to Arizona State
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Rod's Rejects Preseason - College Football Picks 2008
Get ready for another season of Rod's Rejects - will be posted prior to August 28.
I'll pick the winners and losers - and some other good stuff - about each week's top games.
Stay tuned!
I'll pick the winners and losers - and some other good stuff - about each week's top games.
Stay tuned!
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