SDS/Washington State 10:15: Last season between these teams, Aztecs went into the 4th quarter on top 26-14 but gave up 15 unanswered points to the Cougars in the loss. Aztecs, under second year HC Lewis, more mature and should be much better on the road. They have 10 returning starters including edge rush disrupter Trey White. Cougars, with a change in staff and no longer guided on the field with TD (44) king John Mateer (Oklahoma), will have to settle with Potter or Pitt transfer Dugger. They had severe trouble running the football last week vs Div 1 FCS Idaho. Cougars needed a last second FG to win. SDS has a solid run stop unit and can rush the passer. Offensively, they run the rock and have a solid QB in Denegal and versatile Emanuel. Idaho's QB Wood did quite the damage on the ground vs the Cougars, so I wouldn't be surprised to see more of Emanuel. Grab the Aztecs here as a small dog. 

BC/Michigan State 7:30: Four turnovers sealed the Spartans' fate last year in this game. And even with the turnovers, if it wasn't for BC's QB Castellanos (now with Fla State) launching a 42 yard bomb to WR Bond with 88 seconds left, the Spartans would have held on for the road win. With a pretty loaded team, lots of returning production, the Spartans should get their revenge in East Lansing tonight. BC is coming off a blowout win over lightweight Fordham. Michigan State defense will be a major upgrade for QB transfers Lonergan and James to compete against. We'll look for Chiles and company to clean up their game and deliver tonight. 

Vanderbilt/V Tech 7:30: I like the stability of the Vandy program. With all the coaches back, 19 returning starters, including tough as nails QB Pavia and NFL bound TE Stowers. Tech, on the other hand, had a mass exodus of players following last year's 1-4 slide down the stretch. Last week, Tech played SC tough up until the final minutes - giving up two explosive plays to seal their fate. QB Drones played well for the most part but missed on passes in critical times down the stretch. We'll give the edge to the veteran Commodores who proved their mettle last year in the dominant SEC. Vandy the call. 

Illinois/Duke Noon: Illinois took a major step forward last year with a 10 win team and a bowl win. This year, they don't need to reload, just reboot. They have 19 returning starters, including senior QB Altmyer and a ton of returning lettermen. They're a bit shy in the receiving department, losing a Bryant (NFL) and Franklin. But Bielema got a few transfers that looked good last week. Bielema is all about running the football, play action and playing great defense. His men did that last week and we'll look for them to do what they did last season - win on the road! Duke is coming off a winning season under Diaz but regressed statistically on both sides of the ball. I'm not buying in to this year. Illinois the call. 

TCU/UNC 8:00: Belichick's first game as a collegiate coach should be a tough one. The coaching turnover and exodus of players was great. However, he is arguably the greatest NFL coach of all time so he did draw top athletes to Chapel Hill. His QB Gio Lopez (S. Alabama) put up some good passing and rushing numbers in the Sun Belt last year. His supporting cast is solid but the offensive coordinator - Freddie Kitchens - (yeah, former Browns HC) won't strike fear in defenses. TCU defense pretty solid under DC Avalos - who did some great things with the Oregon Ducks' defense (2019-20). And TCU is solid on the back-end. Offensively, Dykes has his QB Josh Hoover back in action after throwing for nearly 4000 yards and 27 TDs. He lost a few top receivers but gained a big time one in Jordan Dwyer (Idaho). Him and deep threat McAlister (19.5 YPR) lead a dangerous receiving corps. And TCU snagged the best recruiting class in the Big 12. HC Dykes proficient in finding ways of carving up defenses. Steve Belichick - will need to be on his game coordinating the Tar Heels' defense. We'll give the edge to TCU -with more continuity and stability in the program. 

ND/Mia-Fla 7:30: Going to go with the more complete team - Fighting Irish. Although both teams had good recruiting classes and incoming portal success, ND a more stable team with better experience. Offensively, the keys are given to redshirt freshman CJ Carr (son of Lloyd) to run the offense. He's got one of the best offensive lines in the nation, good receivers and a deep backfield to help him out. RB Jeremiyah Love is clearly one of the best backs in the country and having Aneyas Williams, Price and Young in the mix is a ridiculous abundance of riches. Hurricanes had big trouble stopping teams late in the season; consequently, they brought in new DC Hetherman (from Minnesota) to figure things out. On the other hand, Irish still have one of the best secondaries in the nation and that won't bode well for GA transfer Carson Beck recovering from UCL surgery. Miami's top 5 receivers departed and Beck will be left with a new crop to get acquainted with. I don't believe he'll light it up against this defense, now led by Chris Ash. Ash oversaw a Top 10 defense at Ohio State and Top 15 at Wisconsin. Irish the call. 

VT/South Carolina 3:00: Two teams going in opposite directions: SC won 6 of their last 7 down the stretch. Their offense got rolling mid season with versatile QB sensation LaNorris Sellers. HC Beamer had a solid recruiting class and did well in the portals. Meanwhile, VT lost 4 of their last 5 down the stretch and then had a mass exodus of 24 players hitting the portal along with 5 going in the NFL draft. And HC Pry brought in new coordinators: OC Montgomery/DC Siefkes. It will take a while to mesh. We'll lay the points with SC. 

Utah/UCLA 11:00 pm: Worth taking a shot with the Bruins. Foster revamped his staff including bringing in OC Tino Sunseri from Indiana to mentor ex Tennessee QB Lamaleava. Off season emphasis on the offensive line and adding skill players WR Gilmer and RB Jet Thomas. Defensively, DC Malloe did a decent job, especially stopping the run (6th nationally). The Bruins did lose some interior players but will get a few back from injury. Utah is physical and the Bruins will have to match their physicality. And the Utes are on a mission from a rare disappointing season a year ago. Nevertheless, like the Bruins chances to stay in this one with a better QB (Lamaleava) to Utah's Dampier (transfer from New Mexico). Bruins the call. 

LSU/Clemson 7:30: Much is made about LSU losing five straight season openers SU/ATS; consequently, LSU gets more line value than I projected. And considering Clemson's Swinney is just 1-4 ATS in season openers, we'll take the points. Kelly achieved the nation's #1 portal class and a Top 10 recruiting class. He focused on acquiring blue chip defensive players to solidify a leaky defense over the last few years. His offense should once again be potent behind a solid offensive line, a projected NFL first round QB Nussmeier, and big time receivers in Anderson and Brown. Clemson is not without top grade talent. #1 in returning production and 17 returning starters. They have the best defensive line in the nation and a pre-season Heisman candidate in QB Klubnik. Nevertheless, LSU should keep this one competitive. Take the points. 

Texas/Ohio State Noon: The betting handle significantly flooded the Longhorns when Ohio State opened as 3 point favorites. On some books, OSU is now a dog. We will take the Buckeyes. Sure, OSU lost both of their coordinators; however, new DC Matt Patricia has some of the best young talent to work with including pre-season All-American S Caleb Downs. Offensively, new OC Hartline has 5* recruit Julian Sayin, who won the job in the spring. Sayin is loaded with skill weapons including All-American WR Jeremiah Smith plus Purdue transfer TE Max Klare. Texas may have the #1 recruiting class in the nation but they lost some studs along the offensive line to protect Arch Manning. This will be Manning's first road start and the 103,000 capacity "The Shoe"! We'll give the edge to the defending champ. 

GT/Colorado 8:00: GT coming off consecutive winning seasons with Brent Key. He brings lots of returning production, including versatile QB King and RB Haynes behind a stable front line in a consistent system. Jackets have a tendency to get up for big games behind Key and we'll jump on them here. Colorado needs to reboot after losing their Heisman Trophy phenom - Hunter. HC Sanders found some quality personnel through the portal including QB Salter (Liberty). I'm going to be surprised if Colorado defense can stop the power run game of the Engineers. We'll lay the points on the road with GT. 

Auburn/Baylor 8:00: Both teams should show improvement this season. Each have a ton of returning starters and returning lettermen. In addition, the recruits and transfer portal players are plentiful. We'll give the edge to Aranda and the Bears who finished 6-1 ATS down the stretch last season. Bears' QB Robinson was sharp in the spring camp and has a veteran supporting cast. Hate going against Hugh Freeze for his offense will be potent; however, I'll give Aranda and the Bears' defense the edge here. Baylor the call. 

Western Michigan/Michigan State 7:00: On the surface, last season Spartans finished 5-7 SU but a close look reveals improvement in all areas from a season ago. Remember, HC Jonathan Smith turned a one win Oregon State team into a three consecutive bowl appearing team before arriving here. This year, he's loaded with significant returning players, a solid QB and a good defense. Western Michigan, on the other hand, turned in a decent season last year with a bowl appearance. They return the entire coaching staff and QB Wolff; however, they're short on returning production, lost some significant starters from a year ago, and achieved just a mediocre recruiting class (105th). Spartans roll. 

Miami OH/Wisconsin 9:00: Redhawks' HC Martin has done a fabulous job building the program; however, returning production from last season ranks at the bottom of the NCAA, including losing 10 offensive starters and a majority of their top ranked defensive players. They do have a pretty good QB Finn. Yes, the ex Toledo Rocket who transferred to Baylor last season, only to go down with a should injury after a few games with the Bears. Now on the Redhawks, Finn won't have a great supporting cast as Miami OH goes into an early rebuilding mode. Wisconsin, meanwhile, is coming off the poorest two year stretch in Madison since 1994-95. But Fickell had a strong transfer portal raid (#12) and a good recruiting class (#27). Look for the Badgers to come out swinging here. 

Jacksonville State/UCF 7:00: Last time Scott Frost patrolled the UCF sidelines, he was the big man on campus - taking the Knights to an undefeated 2017 regular season and bowl win. After an historic flop at Nebraska, he's back. He raided the transfer portal (6th nationally) and put the Knights in a decent position to improve dramatically from a year ago. Jacksonville State, on the other hand, lost HC Rich Rod to West Virginia.  And he left the cupboard bare for new HC Charles Kelly. It should be tough sledding as the traveler here. UCF the call. 

East Carolina/NC State 7:00: Wolfpack dropped their bowl game last year to finish a rare losing season (6-7 SU) under HC Doeren.  NC State in a revenge mode after falling to the Pirates late in last season's Military Bowl. After that game, a brawl ensued. Wolfpack's HC Doeren is 16-9 U/15-9 ATS in seasons following a losing record. Moreover, he's 10-0 SU/6-1 ATS at home in season openers in his career. Pirates lost a lot of players from last year's winning team under HC Harrell, who took over as HC in late November last season. He did well going 5-1 down the stretch including that bowl win; however, none of those wins were against winning teams. Unlike NC State, Pirates recruiting class not great and returning production players down sharply. We'll lay the wood here. 

Iowa State/Kansas State Noon: This one kicks off the 2025 season in Dublin, Ireland. Cyclones' HC Campbell has owned Klieman and the Wildcats over the last 5 meetings. Iowa State has covered 5 straight in this series. Both teams coming off a strong 2024. K State is welcoming back 51 letterwinners! They're deep and they'll be good. But don't rule out the Cyclones, equipped with veteran signal caller Rocco Becht who has 59 total TDs over the last 2 seasons; that's nine more than any other Big 12 QB. And he's got a solid supporting cast. And DC Jon Heacock is back to keep that Cyclone defense up to speed. We'll grab the points here. 

Ohio State/Notre Dame 7:30: Notre Dame was a covering machine this season 12-2 ATS but will fade them here. Buckeyes pose the strongest threat to the Irish. The Irish suffer a similar problem that Penn State has when playing elite teams - lack of big play receivers. Sure, they have RB Love - who can take it to the house but other than Mitchell Evans, no one that strikes fear in opposing defensive backs. OSU, on the other hand, has a few of them, including Jeremiah Smith. And when he's bracketed, like he was against Texas, Egbuka, Tate or even RB Henderson can make opposing defenses pay. ND has a solid defense that's opportunistic with a great secondary. But QB Howard and company are on the same page with OC Chip Kelly now, and they will be tough to stop. ND offense thrives on utilizing RB Love to kickstart the offense. However, OSU defense is #1 against the run and #1 scoring defense behind DC Knowles. And QB Riley Leonard won't have his LT Knapp (ankle). Tosh Baker will make his first start of the season. OSU game wrecker - Jack Sawyer will surely be spending a whole lot of time in the ND backfield tonight. Ohio State the call. 

Notre Dame/Penn State 7:30: Two similar teams which win with strong defense, creating turnovers, strong run game and stable quarterback play. Penn State will look to get the strong RB tandem of Singleton and Allen going. In the air, Allar's go-to-guy is NFL prospect TE Tyler Warren. ND defense has been strong all season limiting the run, thieving on the back end with safety Watts (6 INTs). ND defense is 6th nationally allowing explosive plays and #2 in points allowed. Penn State is surely a formidable opponent with a dominant defense but a lot of their TFL's and sacks come from NFL prospect Abdul Carter (arm) and he's a game time decision. He's clearly earmarked as a top selection the draft and may see just limited action. ND offense productive with versatile QB Riley Leonard and explosive 1000+ rusher J-Love (knee) who is good to go. ND has been solid on their 12-game win streak in not beating themselves by defensively taking away the major weapons and offensively holding onto the ball with sustained drives. Penn State concern is James Franklin 3-17 SU record vs Top 10 Teams. Edge to ND

Duke/Ole Miss 7:30: A lot of the dogs in these bowl games are covering; as a matter of fact, in non-CFP bowl games, the dog has gone 18-10 ATS. It's best not to be swayed to the underdog here though. Lane Kiffin was miffed his Rebels were not included in the CFP and encouraged his team, as only he could, to make a statement in this bowl game. Kiffin is all about building for next season, poaching portal transfers like no other and out on the recruiting trail. He amazingly convinced most of his players, albeit a few defections, to play in this game. QB Jaxson Dart, an NFL prospect, should and will play to boost his draft stock. He has plenty of weapons, including 1000+ yard receiver Tre Harris to go to. On the other hand, Duke is ravaged with defections. Their top two QBs are in the transfer portal, leaving little used (1 start) Henry Belin V to run the show. For a team that relied on passing throughout the year with record setting QB Murphy (26 TD passes), that's a big problem against the #1 sack team in the nation (4.4 a game). Moreover, Ole Miss run-stop-unit allows a nation leading 2.3 yards per carry. Duke struggles on the ground (126th nationally in rush yards); consequently, that's lots of pressure to put on a QB who has seen spot duty the last few years and averages 1.1 YPC. Sure, Duke defense strong but can only hold up so long without steady offensive balance. We'll lay the wood. 

Notre Dame/Georgia 8:45: Never easy going against Kirby Smart on Georgia. Bulldogs get up for these big games; however, extended layoff (last game Dec 7th) could equate with rust. ND sports a sweet 6-0 ATS mark vs a team with rest. And not fully on board with sophomore QB Gunner Stockton. He hasn't had much experience throwing against a good defense. He's more dangerous with his legs than his arm - as he exhibited coming off the bench vs Texas. ND defense has arguably the best secondary in the nation. They've held QBs to 49.6% completions and are #1 in the nation in holding QBs to season low QB ratings. That's not a good team to get your first start against. On the flip side, veteran signal caller Riley Leonard (17 TD/6 INT) has a great supporting cast including 1057-yard rusher Jeremyah Lover who averages a healthy 7.4 YPC. Georgia defense has shown cracks in the run stop unit and on the back end this year. We'll look for ND to get its 10th straight cover and 11th straight win. 

Texas/Arizona State 1:00: Another higher seed with extended rest and it may work against them like it did with Boise State. Arizona State can't afford to be flat early. Texas controls the #2 scoring defense in the nation, Top 10 run stop unit, and #2 in nation in pass yards allowed. Texas defense, like Penn State did on Jeanty, will not let the opposing team's horse beat them. They'll swarm human bowling ball RB Cam Skattebo (1568 rush yards) and force QB Leavitt to throw the ball more than he's comfortable doing. Leavitt is a very underrated QB and can extend plays with his legs too. But Texas secondary very disciplined and made life miserable for most QBs they faced this year (#2 nationally QBR). Defensively, Arizona State won't have their top defensive back Shamari Simmons for the first half because of his targeting infraction in the Big 12 Championship Game. Sarkisian will surely exploit his replacement - redshirt freshman - Warren. Arizona State defense is solid, but Texas has steady wideouts in Helm and Golden, and a pair of horses to hitch the wagon to in RBs Blue and Wisner behind a strong offensive line. Texas the call.  

Penn State/Boise State 7:30: Respect RB Ashton Jeanty but this is, by far, the best run stop unit he will face all season. Sure, Jeanty ran roughshod on #1 Oregon but that was the 2nd game of the year and the Ducks improved some in stopping the run since. Penn State controls the #1 red zone defense in the nation. And QB Madsen is a solid QB but has no major vertical threat to a solid Penn State secondary. Penn State's DE Abdul Carter is an absolute wrecking machine - someone Boise hasn't faced all year in the inferior MWC. Offensively, Lions' run game cooking with Singleton and Allen. And QB Allar has one of the best TEs in the nation - Tyler Warren - to go to vs a vulnerable Boise State secondary. We'll look for the physicality of Penn State to wear down Boise. 

Illinois/South Carolina 3:00: South Carolina was perhaps a TD or two away from garnering a position in the CFP. Today, they won't have their top defensive player - Kennard (NFL) or leading rusher Sanders; however, they're each unit not solely reliant on them. USC has a Top 20 defense in terms of yards allowed and points allowed. And offensively, they're fueled by 6'3" 242 speedster QB with a canon arm - redshirt freshman - LaNorris Sellers. Illinois' defense was worked against top tier teams and some mediocre ones too. Illinois' QB Altmyer is good but he won't have his leading receiver Bryant (opt out). Big time weaponry on Illinois is limited. We'll lay the wood. 

Michigan/Alabama Noon: This line opened at 11' and shot up quickly to two TDs. I'll still lay the wood here with the better, bitter and angry team. Alabama, which lost last year to Michigan in the Semi Finals, is not quite the strength it was last year; however, Michigan is a mere shell of that National Championship team. Wolves won't have a ton of players today, including defensive menace Mason Graham, which will open the door for Jalen Milroe and company to operate freely. On the other hand, Michigan's pedestrian offense got even more pedestrian. Both of their top RBs Mullings and Donovan Edwards are out (NFL). And with 2025 #1 overall QB recruit - Underwood - already anointed as next season's starter, current QB Davis Warren (6 TDs/9 INTs) is a lame duck out there without much help against a still pretty good defense despite some back end injuries. Alabama stewing that they were not included in the CFP should make a statement game here. 

Iowa/Missouri 2:30: Missouri doing well under Drinkwitz who has gotten the Tigers to their 4th straight bowl appearance. They turned in another strong year but hit in the transfer portal a bit harder than Iowa. Missouri's QB Brady Cook won't have his top receiver -Burden (NFL), TE Norfleet and receiver Cooper both having knee surgery. Cook also won't have his starting center. That won't hold up well vs the historically dominant defense of Iowa. Once again, Iowa had a Top 10 scoring defense led by legendary DC Phil Parker who has been shutting down opposing offenses since 1998. Iowa, which actually had a respectable offense this season will be led by QB Sullivan. Sullivan injured his ankle November 8th vs UCLA. And Stratton came in and guided them to a few victories. Both are available. Iowa's top RB Kaleb Johnson is off to the NFL but backups Patterson and Moulton are the future behind a veteran Hawkeyes' offensive line. We'll look for Iowa to do what they do best - grind out a victory. 

BYU/Colorado 7:30: Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Hunter took out insurance policies to play and that's trouble for BYU. If there's an Achilles Heel on the BYU defense, it's their pass rush (123rd nationally). Give Sanders (74% completion) time and he'll dice that secondary. He not only has world class Hunter to go to but Wester and Shepperd combined for 1500 receiving yards and 16 TD receptions. Colorado defense much improved from a year ago. And BYU showed signs of slipping down the stretch after a strong start. We'll roll with the Buffaloes. 

Iowa State/Miami FL 3:30: Both teams coming off disappointing losses. Look for Iowa State to respond well here. Their defense was no match for the bruising run game of Skattebo. But their back end is sound and can limit the Hurricanes' vaunted offensive attack with Cam Ward. Defensively, 'Canes allow teams back in games. Iowa State has a solid offense led by QB Becht. Cyclones capable of hanging around in this one. Cristobal 1-4 ATS in his last 5 bowl games. Iowa State the call. 

Boston College/Nebraska Noon: BC finished strong down the stretch on a 5-0 ATS run. O'Brien benched veteran QB Castellanos vs Syracuse. The team could have easily sank but backup Grayson James took over at the helm and did well with 5 TD passes in 4 starts. His counterpart, overrated Dylan Raiola subject to panicking under pressure will surely see that today vs an aggressive BC defense. BC has a good run/pass mix that can stay in this game. 

Washington State/Syracuse 8:00: Going to be a monumental task for Washington State interim HC Kaligis to assemble a team that can play well enough to be competitive. Cougars' HC Dickert bolted to Wake Forest; subsequently, his QB Mateer transferred to Oklahoma and the transfer portal door blasted open with 25+ defections. On the other hand, Syracuse HC Fran Brown, who previously served as the Georgia Bulldogs top recruiter, engineered a big winning season for the Orange under former Ohio State QB Kyle McCord. We'll roll with the Orange!

Georgia Tech/Vanderbilt 3:30: Two teams which overachieved. Vanderbilt, preseason pick to be at the bottom of the SEC, beat V Tech, won at Kentucky, at Auburn and beat Alabama a week after the Crimson Tide upset Georgia. They won't sneak up on Brent Key and Georgia Tech. Tech faced one of the toughest schedules in the country and won 7 games. Tech won't have their top receiver Singleton or starting DL Height - both transferred. However, Key has done a solid job working in second tier guys into the rotation all season. I hate going against Vanderbilt's QB Pavia. He's a gritty player who puts the team on his back to stay in games; however, Georgia Tech - with QB Haynes King have more of an offensive identity - strong consistent run game with accurate passing and good pass blocking (#3 in nation allowing sacks). And Tech's defense is pretty good stopping the run and making plays. GT better coached with Key should carry them here. 

Oklahoma/Navy Noon: Oklahoma opened as a nine-point favorite then the shit hit the fan. 25 Sooners entered the transfer portal and the shuffling at positions began. Navy fresh off huge win against a good Army team, in good hands with QB Blake Horvath. Navy runs a new age version of the triple option and it's not easy to prepare for. Oklahoma HC Venerables a very good defensive minded coach, will have to utilize some freshmen and second tier players to join LB Kip Lewis in stopping the vaunted Navy attack. Offensively, Sooners were not a juggernaut before the transfer porter exodus. They averaged a paltry 4.8 yards per play (126th nationally). Navy defense respectable (22.3 PPG allowed). We'll give the edge to the team that may not have the blue-chip players Oklahoma has but bonded well over the season under HC Newberry. Navy the call. 

Arkansas State/Bowling Green 9:00: Arkansas State' offense not going to draw lots of fear in defensive coordinators. QB Raynor is decent with some good skill players but face a Top 20 defense. BG has been strong defensively for most of the year. Offensively, they're productive with an NFL ready tight end in Harold Fannin Jr. and a six-year senior quarterback in Bazelak who has a veteran offensive line leading the way for a pretty good run game with Stewart (890 rush yards). Red Wolves' defense is weak - allowing a generous 32.3 PPG and don't generate much pressure on opposing QBs (1.5 sacks per game). We'll look for the Falcons to cruise here. 

Rutgers/Kansas State 5:30: Transfer portal and sit outs limited here. The sit outs for Rutgers a bit more damaging to them than K State. Rutgers' RB Monangai a valuable component to the offense. He is a high percentage of successfully moving the ball. QB Kaliakmanus, average at best, should struggle against a pretty solid, well-rounded defense of the Wildcats. On the other hand, K State won' have NFL ready RB D.J. Giddens; however, Wildcats still have a strong stable of backs that produced well, including Edwards (6.3 YPC). And versatile QB Avery Johnson much better than his counterpart. Rutgers' defense yielding on the ground (4.9 YPC) and give up yards through the air. Without Monangai, a yard stick mover and clock eater, value shifts to K State and we'll lay the TD. 

USF/SJS 8:00: USF football program a bit ahead of SJS's in terms of recruiting, experience and returning production. SJS, led by well respected former Navy coach Niumatalolo, won't have their top player - receiver Nick Nash (NFL opt out) and that's a huge loss. QB Eget (11/9 TD/INT) does have Lockart (973 yards receiving) as his go-to-guy; however, SJS reliant on pass game and at the bottom of the NCAA in rushing at a paltry 81 YPG. USF backend coverage not great but they do bring a pretty good rush (2.8 sacks per game) and the Spartans were turnover prone most of the season. USF offense, also had trouble holding onto the ball when QB Byrun Brown went down with an injury; however, as of now he's questionable and practicing with first team. Offense runs smooth with Brown, and the run game is solid at 191 ypg. SJS run stop unit mediocre as their secondary was their strength; however, their top two corners are in the portal and that's a problem. We'll roll with USF which destroyed Syracuse in their bowl game last season with good returning production from that team.  

Northern Illinois/Fresno State 2:30: Both teams will not have their starting quarterbacks. Northern Illinois, however, not as reliant on their quarterback. Northern Illinois likes to pound the rock and they'll do so with versatile Josh Holst who had one start early in the season vs Toledo. Fresno, used Keene heavily in the pass and more finesse with the run. Northern Illinois' defense stingy in terms of yards and scoring allowed (5th and 15th, respectively). Huskies have 30 seniors playing in this game and we'll look for that veteran experience to pay off. 

Tennessee/Ohio State 8:00: OSU has the advantage in home field, weather (28 degrees), skill players, including receivers Smith, Tate and Egbuka. They also have the #1 scoring defense in the nation; however, offensive line is a concern. The Buckeyes had a few weeks for a reconfiguration of the offensive line in hopes of fending off a very stout Tennessee defensive front. We'll look for Chip Kelly to work some magic for QB Howard. Tennessee has had trouble on the road losing at Arkansas and Georgia. They did beat an Oklahoma team early in the year in Norman, but the Sooners didn't quite find their offensive identity yet. We'll look for the Buckeyes to deliver. 

SMU/Penn State Noon: Thought this line would be a bit tighter; after all, SMU turned in an impressive display vs Clemson in the ACC Championship Game. The Mustangs were impressive in the second half running the football and versatile QB Kevin Jennings is on his way to be a big-time baller. Penn State is clearly well sound on both sides of the ball but don't have that explosive dynamic. Tyler Warren is a matchup nightmare, and the run game is rock solid; however, SMU defense is 4th in the nation vs the run and allow a paltry 2.7 YPC. On the backend, they've been exposed at time but do bring nice pressure on the QB (3.1 sacks per game). Drew Allar a solid QB but not a major threat on the run nor has the vertical threats in his arsenal like his counterpart - Jennings - does. We'll take the points. 

Indiana/ND 8:00: What a difference a coach makes. Cignetti did an amazing job (11-1) with the personnel left over by Tom Allen. Not to throw much shade his way, but the schedule was favorable for a winning season. Problem was, when matched up against elite competition - Ohio State - Indiana faded. The score 38-15 wasn't indicative of how mismatched they were as a garbage time touchdown in the final seconds closed the gap. Tonight, another elite team they will face. ND is well balanced in all areas - really good QB, strong run game, and a top 3 scoring defense with one of the best secondaries in the nation, and well coached. Even if it snows, it's going to be tough to hang. Notre Dame the call. 

Tulane/Florida 3:30: On the surface, Florida giving the right vibes, majority of players want to play. And their QB Lagway is good to go. But that's where the upside ends. Defensively, multiple players in transfer portal and top three defensive backs injured. At first glance, Tulane's offense looks like it would take a hit with its top two QBs - Mensah and backup - Horton in the transfer portal; however, the third teamer is a 5* from Oregon - Ty Thompson - also in the portal- but wants to showcase his ability to potential teams, and we'll roll with him. He's got his top receiver - Mario Williams and RB Hughes. Thompson is mobile and was utilized in the wildcat package in 11 games this season. He does have a run game to lean on. Tulane grinds out 205 YPG. Florida is suspect, at best vs the run. And the Tulane defense is a Top 20 unit in terms of yards allowed and scoring. When the Green Wave were matched vs top level football programs they fared well - sticking around against Oklahoma and covering vs Kansas State. Sumrall is a rock solid coach and should keep Tulane competitive here. 

Ohio/Jacksonville State Noon: Both teams coming off conference championship wins in blowout fashion. And both coaches departed -Ohio U HC Albin to Charlotte and Jax HC Rodriguez to West Virginia. Both stand out as strong run oriented offenses with mobile QBs. But what separates them is the Ohio defense. The Bobcats are strong against the run (5th in nation) holding foes to less than 100 yards per game. On the other hand, Jax State is in the bottom tier of stopping the run - allowing a generous 170 YPG to foes. Bobcats have an 1100 yard rusher in Tyus and a mobile QB Navarro who completed a respectable 65%. We'll look for Ohio U to win and cover its 3rd straight bowl. 

Memphis/West Virginia 9:00: Teams that beat Memphis this year (Navy and UTSA) were able to outscore them utilizing various sets, formations, motion. WV, under HC Neal Brown (fired), were more vanilla offense with heavy ground game and utilizing Garrett Greene (13 TD/11 INT) in play action and RPO. Memphis defense strong vs the run (Top 10 run stop unit) and decent back end play. WV defense, however, 132nd vs the pass and that doesn't bode well vs the prolific offense led by QB Henigan (23 TD/6 INT) and strong run game with RB Marcus Robinson Jr. behind a veteran offensive line. A team that could have been in the CFP should deliver a message tonight. 

Navy/Army 3:00: Respect the Midshipmen. They turned in a great season with the finely tuned modern day triple option offense. QB Horvath (probably) guided Navy to 32.3 PPG. Army, however, has a record setting QB of their own in Bryson Daily who's been unstoppable to every team except Notre Dame. What separates these two teams is the defense. Army has a Top 10 defense in yards allowed and scoring allowed. Navy's defense mediocre. And Army is so well disciplined on both sides of the ball. They're one of the least penalized teams in the nation under HC Monken. Navy did have an extra prep week for this one; however, with all things considered, including special teams, we'll lay the TD with Army.

Clemson/SMU 8:00: Great season for SMU and HC Lashlee has the Mustangs heading in the right direction of ACC dominance. However, Clemson not quite ready to capitulate the title to them yet. The winner of this one gets the automatic big to the CFP while the loser most likely goes home; although, SMU could make a case for an at-large bid. And the Mustangs should start doing their due-diligence because I believe the Tigers will deliver here. Swinney has been dangerous in bowls and playoff games as a small dog throughout his career with Clemson. And keep in mind that Clemson is a few years ahead of the Mustangs in 5* athlete recruits. SMU does have a real good mobile QB in Kevin Jennings (2nd leading rusher) and Clemson defense did have trouble with SC's Sellers last week. Nevertheless, Tigers have an opportunistic defense and SMU offense has committed its lion's share of penalties and fumbles (bottom tier of NCAA). Clemson a bit more crisp in execution albeit not as flashy. SMU steps up in competition here after sweeping through the ACC and we'll look for them to fall. Clemson the call. 

Penn State/Oregon 8:00: Penn State snuck into this Big 10 Championship by virtue of Ohio State's monumental loss to Michigan. Nevertheless, they've had another strong season and deserved of an at-large bid in the CFP. The only knock on Penn State is their inability to win spotlight games under HC Franklin. Franklin is 1-12 SU vs AP Top 10 teams. Oregon comes into this one undefeated and surely not willing to give up their high seeding and #1 ranking. QB Gabriel, newly minted Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year, has plenty of weaponry at his disposal, including vertical threat Tez Johnson and 1100+ rusher Jordan James. Penn State, on the other hand, has a solid QB Allar. He's doing well under his first year OC but has limited explosive weaponry. His go-to target TE Tyler Warren will surely be draped by Lanning's well disciplined secondary. And Oregon defense, although got gashed early in the season by Boise State's All American RB Jeanty, they've been solid vs the run since. Penn State's Allen and Singleton are not the caliber of the Heisman candidate from Boise. We'll take Oregon. 

Iowa State/Arizona State Noon: Arizona State is one of the surprise teams in the Big 12. In pre-season, they were projected to be a bottom feeder of the conference; however, first year HC Dillingham hammered the transfer portal and established a great identity to this team, including a bruising run game with RB Skattebo and solid pass game with QB Leavitt; however, Leavitt won't have his top vertical threat - Tyson (out) to go to. And that's a big loss. Next leading receiver is Guillory with an underwhelming 291 yards receiving. Cyclones are one of the most disciplined secondaries in the nation. The Cyclones were projected to be a contender for the Big 12 Title. They didn't disappoint. Iowa State did have a rough patch in early November losing back-to-back games but battled back strong winning three straight. Iowa State has a veteran team with few weaknesses. A good QB in Rocco Becht, run game and solid defense under one of college football's best - DC John Heacock. Cyclones have taken a lot of slack for giving up a ton of yards on the ground and that scares potential backers with breakaway RB Skattebo. However, Cyclones control a Top 20 defense where it counts most - on the scoreboard - allowing under 20 PPG. And let's not forget Iowa State's HC Matt Campbell is a sweet 30-12 ATS as a conference dog, including 14-2 ATS vs foes coming off a SU/ATS win. Iowa State the call. 

Houston/BYU 10:15: BYU momentum stifled with the loss against Kansas and last week at Arizona State; consequently, the Cougars will not reach the CFP and could even fall here. We won't sleep on Houston HC Fritz who turned around Tulane. Fritz is a sweet 15-6 ATS off a loss vs an opponent off a loss. And Houston is a sweet 14-2 ATS as a dog of more than 11 points. Fritz relieved his OC earlier this week and we may see him open up the offense more. Houston the call. 

ND/USC 3:30: Last season, football was going great for the first six weeks of the season for Lincoln Riley's Trojans. The 6-0 Trojans went into South Bend and got demolished 48-20. That demolition was the beginning of the end for their then DC Grinch - as USC plunged on a 1-5 SU slide for the rest of the regular season. USC is more equipped to handle top tier teams now. They're new DC Lynn is doing a respectable job keeping them in games. USC offense not as potent as last year's but Riley made a good move with QB Maiava as he led them to back-to-back wins. USC stays in games and a dangerous dog here. They're playing well at home and 4-0 ATS at the Coliseum vs ND. ND, coming off a blowout win over Army, must now reconfigure their defensive scheme from assignment football to the wide open, well balanced attack of USC. We'll grab the points. 

S. Carolina/Clemson Noon: Clemson will surely help their CFP chances here with a significant win. They control a 3-1 SU/ATS mark in this series. SC offers quite a challenge with uber size and athletic QB Sellers. However, he's shown questionable decision making against upper tier teams. And Clemson sports a Top 15 defense that's quite opportunistic (Top 20 in creating turnovers). S. Carolina puts the ball on the carpet an average of 1 time per game. Clemson, with Klubnik at the controls, is in the Top 10 in securing the football in the Tigers' well balanced offensive attack. Clemson the call. 

Kansas/Baylor Noon: Kansas started 1-5 but has now beaten three straight ranked teams - BYU, Iowa State and, last week Colorado. Baylor lost to all three of those teams but has gone on a 5-0 SU/ATS run vs Big 12 contenders. I like the bruising run game of Kansas that's revved up with Neal and QB Daniels. Baylor's defense has been vulnerable against the run and that should do them in. 

Illinois/NW Noon: Last season, NW snuck up on teams to produce a magical season including a win at Illinois in the regular season finale. This season, NW is having trouble generating offense. Their pedestrian offense is ranked dead last in a variety of categories including on the scoreboard at 16.9 PPG. They're outmatched against winning teams and coming off back to back blowouts. Illinois, ranked 23rd and likely out of the CFP, is set on revenge here. Bielema has a good QB in Altmeyer, decent defense, and likes going on the road vs teams below .500 where he's 12-4 ATS laying points. We'll lay the points here. 

Vanderbilt/LSU 7:45: Vanderbilt has been a dangerous dog all season. They've had a week to get healthier after struggling a few weeks ago vs a surging South Carolina team. Vanderbilt has a better run game and defense than LSU. We'll look for Vandy to stay in this one vs the fading Tigers. 

Alabama/Oklahoma 7:30: Oklahoma has trouble finishing drives with QB Jackson Arnold. And they've had 13 turnovers over their last 5 games. That's a recipe for disaster vs the 11th ranked scoring defense in the nation that's been highly opportunistic over its last 5 games. The Crimson Tide defense forced 3 turnovers in each of its last 5 games including 9 INTs. Offensively, Alabama in good hands with QB Milroe at the controls. Alabama back in contention for the CFP and should stay there with a resounding victory here. 

Indiana/Ohio State Noon: Sure, we understand Indiana's strength of schedule is week; however, they've looked strong in every game including bowl eligible Washington. Indiana sports the #1 defense against the run in yards and yards per carry. Ohio State run game solid but a reshuffled offensive line could lead to problems there and protecting QB Howard. And Indiana pretty solid on the backend too. Offensively, Indiana's equipped with a solid QB in Rourke and backup Jackson. They're well balanced with good skill players and a veteran offensive line. Hoosiers' HC Cignetti has done another masterful job preparing his players like he did at James Madison. Hoosiers toughest test but should be competitive. 

Illinois/Rutgers Noon: Rutgers feeling good on a 2-0 SU/ATS run. Against Minnesota, they got a big jarring hit from their linebacker Powell to force a fumble late to upset the Gophers. That's a rare situation for Rutgers; after all, they're 3-14-1 ATS vs greater than .500 conference opponents. Illinois, which captured 3 of the last 4 wins and covers in this series, will surely be focused. And if Rutgers does stall out the run game of Illinois, Altmeyer is capable of airing it out successfully against a Rutgers' secondary that's struggled to defend the pass. On the other hand, Rutgers' QB Kaliakmanis does not pose a threat to a well disciplined Fighting Illini secondary. Kaliakmanis has completed just 55% of his passes and averages a meager 2.1 YPC running. Illini will surely focus on stopping 1000+ rusher Monangai. Illinois has shown strength on the road under HC Bielema. They're 11-2 ATS as a conference road dog of 2 points or more since 2021. Illinois the call. 

Purdue/Michigan State 8:00: Several fundamental problems have killed the program under Walters. Purdue, which is two years removed from appearing in the Big 10 Championship Game, has free fallen on a non-competitive spin. Surely not devoid of talent, but back-to-back years of installation on both sides of the ball and not a ton of reps usually spells disaster for a season. Defensive schemes are much too complicated for the talent available, and surely offensive minded Jonathon Smith will have his Spartans put some points on the board vs a defense ranked at the bottom of the NCAA in several categories including the scoreboard. In today's transfer portal revolving door, Purdue players have already checked out. We'll look for the Spartans to get on the winning track big at home. 

Ohio/Toledo 7:00: After the Frank Solich era ended after the 2020 season, Tim Albin stepped in and guided the Bobcats to back-to-back bowl wins in 2022 and 2023. And considering the limited returning production this year, he's kept Ohio U in competition to play for a MAC Championship. Ohio U has gotten strong play from him down the stretch for the 3rd straight season. His blend of transfers helped solidify a strong offensive line for versatile QB Navarro and a strong run game. And the Bobcats control a Top 20 defense with a good back end. Toledo's QB Gleason is solid but may need to pass more than he's accustomed to. Advantage Ohio U. Ohio U always dangerous as a dog of less than 19 points vs greater than .666 competition at 15-1 ATS. And throw in that they're 9-1 ATS on Tuesdays and Wednesdays the last 4 seasons, we got a play on the Bobcats. 

NIU/Miami-OH 8:00: Miami-OH will try to stay atop the division with Toledo and Bowling Green but look for NIU to be a spoiler here. NIU has a tendency to underachieve as a favorite but show up when faced with quality opposition. Remember, the Huskies were seconds away from upsetting Notre Dame at South Bend earlier this year. And they're an amazing 12-0-1 ATS as a dog of less than 6 points vs greater than .500 opposition. Overall, they're 3-0 ATS as a dog this season. Huskies control the 11th best ground game in the nation (290 YPG) and versatile QB Ethan Hampton is a respectable passer (60% completions/12 TD/5 INT). Miami-OH has a Top 25 scoring defense yet has its weaknesses. Believe NIU can win the battle of the line-of scrimmage. On the other hand, Redhawks' offense has playmaker WRs Virgil and Tracy, good run game with Mozee and decent but overrated QB Gabbert. Gabbert does well vs sluggish MAC defensive secondaries but struggles when those windows close down. NIU has arguably the best secondary in the MAC and a strong pass rush. Gabbert has been sacked 27X this year. This series has been decided by one score in each of the last three games - each won by Miami-OH. This would be a stronger play if NIU special teams were better, but we'll look for NIU to deliver. 

 Kansas/BYU 10:15: Last week, BYU got bailed out by the refs and delivered a dramatic victory. They have to take on a surging Kansas team that is peaking at the right time. Upset alert here. If there is a chink in the armor of BYU, it's their run defense which has given up 4.5 YPC vs conference foes. Right now, Kansas has the run game cooking with Daniels and Neal. Kansas is 10-3 ATS as a dog of less than 8 points vs an opponent off SU/ATS win. Kansas the call. 

Florida International/Jacksonville State 2:00: Jacksonville State has a powerful Top 5 run game in the nation in terms of yards and yards per carry. FIU has trouble stopping the run, ranked in the bottom tier of the NCAA. Sure, FIU had an extra week of prep, but it's worked against Macintyre coached teams. Macintyre sports a 2-13 ATS mark with rest including 0-10 ATS as a dog. Take the Gamecocks. 

Utah/Colorado Noon: Utah on an 0-5 slide. But Whittingham still has his team fighting. They turned in a strong performance vs BYU last week and deserved the win after an egregiously bad call near the end of the game by the referees. Utah's defense still pretty solid. Offensively, QB Brandon Rose didn't do bad in his first career start. He offers a good dimension with his feet (55 yards rushing) and with RB Bernard can put a dent in a week area of Colorado - run stop unit. Utah is a perfect 10-0 ATS on the road vs less than .850 team off a double-digit SU win. Take the points here. 

Houston/Arizona 10:15: Don't look now but here comes another Willie Fritz team turning it around. Cougars started on a 1-4 slide; however, those 4 teams now own winning records and most likely headed to bowl games. Meanwhile, questionable hire for Arizona - Brent Brennan, steering the Wildcats in the wrong direction. In his defense, they do have 3 of his top defensive players down but no -next man up mentality instilled. Roll with the Cougars. 

Eastern Michigan/Ohio U 7:00: Eastern Michigan, unlike last year, has an offense. Cole Snyder directs a respectable unit. He's thrown 11 TDs to just 3 INTs for 2087 yards - a significant improvement from last year's dismal unit. Defensively, not great but competitive and hustle. The Eagles are 7-2 ATS this season, including 4-1 ATS as a dog. They're catching a good Ohio U team coming off back-to-back blowout wins over conference lightweights - Buffalo, and especially Kent State. Eagles off a very competitive close loss to Toledo. Eagles' HC Creighton an amazing 21-6-1 ATS on the road following a loss. They're also 11-2 ATS as conference dogs of more than 4 points vs .500 or greater opposition off a SU win. Eagles the call.  

Ball State/Buffalo 7:00: Ball State presents an ugly stat sheet and won't be in contention for a conference championship; however, HC Neu has the Cardinals playing hard down the stretch again. He's now 7-1 ATS in his last 4 games of the season. They're currently on a 3-0 ATS roll including a very competitive game against emerging SEC contender Vanderbilt, outright win over defensively stout N. Illinois and a cover last week vs the class of the MAC Miami Ohio. Neu is 3-0 ATS/2-1 SU vs Buffalo. Cardinals' QB Semonza is a gamer. And Ball State defense is making plays. Buffalo is coming off a win over struggling Akron. The Zips hung 378 yards on that secondary though. Buffalo's pass defense has been bad. And offensively, QB Ogbonna completed just 56.5% of his passes on the year and not a running threat. Buffalo is a ragged 0-9 ATS on Tuesdays/Wednesdays. Former Ball State HC Lempo might get a rude awakening vs his old team. Take the Cardinals.

Alabama/LSU 7:30: LSU has won 15 straight prime time home games, and we'll grab them here. Both of these teams are well rested on a bye. On the 26th, Alabama blasted Missouri after QB Brady Cook went down with an injury. Meanwhile, the Tigers collapsed in the second half vs Texas A&M. This is most likely an elimination game in the CFP for the team that loses. Alabama has had some trouble on the road this season dropping to Vanderbilt and Tennessee. Death Valley in Baton Rouge a tough venue to play. LSU needs to establish that run game behind their top tier offensive line to get QB Nussmeier in rhythm. LSU sports an 11-2 ATS mark after allow more than 35 points. We'll look for Kelly and his boys to get it done here. 

Maryland/Oregon 7:00: Maryland has historically fallen flat in November under Locksley and this is not a good spot for them. They're coming off a blowout loss at Minnesota and now have to travel to Oregon. The #1 ranked Ducks are rolling on all cylinders and surely don't want to give up their #1 seeding. And Heisman candidate QB Gabriel should surgically rip up a secondary ranked in the bottom tier of the NCAA. Offensively, QB Edwards threw 4 INTs in his last 3 games so his backup Morris could see some time; nevertheless, hard to break the end zone against the Top 10 scoring defense of the Ducks. Maryland a poor 2-10 ATS off a SU/ATS road loss, and they're 0-9 ATS with extended rest. Oregon the call. 

Oklahoma State/TCU 7:00: Oklahoma State in danger of not being bowl eligible for the first time in 19 years. With conference winners - Texas Tech and Colorado on deck, this is a winnable game for the Cowboys. Gundy needs to get his sputtering run game going against the Swiss Cheese defense of TCU to allow interception prone QB Bowman to get in a rhythm. Oklahoma State a strong 7-2 ATS off back-to-back SU losses. Cowboys covered three of last four in this series. Grab the points. 

South Carolina/Vanderbilt 4:15: Vanderbilt has taken on the heavyweights of the SEC and went 3-2 SU/5-0 ATS. Now they seek to avenge a team that's beaten them 10 straight times (2-7-1 ATS), including the embarrassing 47-6 demolition last season in Columbia. This is not the typical Vanderbilt team. They're stingy defensively, solid run game and a QB Pavia as tough as nails. They limit mistakes and penalties and execute well down the stretch. SC has better athletes, including 6'3" 242-pound redshirt freshman QB Sellers. They do amazing things but also turn put the ball on the turf too often and are penalized too much. We'll grab the points again with the Commodores. 

Georgia/Ole Miss 3:30: Ole Miss is on the outside looking in at a CFP spot. Blocking the entrance way is the SEC heavyweight Georgia. Bulldogs have won 11 of the last 12 in this series. Sure, Kiffin has, once again, one of the most explosive offenses in the nation, but usually sputter in the big games. Georgia's defense is ramping up again off two strong showings. And offensively, if Smart can keep interception prone QB Beck settled down, Bulldogs have enough fire power to deliver again. Georgia the call. 

N. Illinois/Western Michigan 7:00: Western Michigan feeling good after ripping off four straight victories in conference play. Not all that impressed considering they had to trade points and ultimately outscore their opponent. It will not be so easy vs a Northern Illinois defense that's equipped to win in November in the cold, sloppy Midwest. Huskies hungry to get back in the win column after two subpar efforts. They control a strong run game, and the 16th ranked scoring defense in the nation. They're 7-0 ATS back-to-back SU/ATS losses. On the other hand, Western Michigan 1-11 ATS vs conference foes off consecutive losses. Broncos' defense leaves much to be desired ranked in bottom tier of NCAA in multiple categories. In this series, WM 1-3 ATS last 4 and 1-4 ATS at home. In the inclement weather of Kalamazoo in November, we'll grab the team with the run game behind a veteran offensive line and stingy defense across the board. 

Miami OH/Ball State 8:00: Miami OH has gotten the best of this series the last four years; however, the games have been competitive with the last two resulting in two point wins. Ball State is coming off a big upset win over N. Illinois as a 13' point dog. The week before, they played Vanderbilt tough easily covering the number. QB Semonza has gotten better as the season progresses. Over the last 3 games, he's thrown four TDs with no interceptions. On the other hand, Miami OH is blowing out teams but this shouldn't be easy. Ball State sports a 13-4 SU / 11-3 ATS mark off a SU underdog under HC Neu. And they're 7-1 ATS after Northern Illinois. Ball State the call. 

Pittsburgh/SMU 8:00: Both of these teams overachieved this season and the winner has legitimate shot at getting in the CFP. SMU is well balanced on both sides of the ball - but better defensively. QB Jennings had trouble last week vs Duke - 3 INTs and only 54% completions but managed to deliver in OT. Pittsburgh's HC Narduzzi is a great strategist defensively. He wants to stop the run, force long yardage situations and bring the heat. Pittsburgh can sack the QB (3.1 a game) and they're ball hawking on the back-end (9th nationally in interceptions). Offensively, Narduzzi has a QB this year in with versatile Holstein. He was shaken up a bit last week but he's good to go. Pittsburgh has a veteran offensive line, loves to pound the rock and let Holstein work some magic. They can find the end zone (6th nationally scoring 40.9 PPG). Over the past four seasons, Pittsburgh is 12-4 ATS in November with three of those losses last season in their down year. Pittsburgh is back and we'll grab the points!

Wisconsin/Iowa 7:30: Iowa coming off an easy win over NW. They did lose QB McNamara (concussion) for this game though. Brendan Sullivan, transfer from NW, did a solid job in relief last week. He gets his first start. He only has 16 pass attempts this season though. Wisconsin sports a Top 25 defense and hungry for revenge from last season's 15-6 slugfest loss in Madison last year. Wisconsin offense can move the football with a good run game and QB Locke is respectable at the controls. Look for the Badgers to bounce back strong this week. Iowa is a money burning 2-13 ATS after score 40 or more points vs an opponent off a SU loss. 

Vanderbilt/Auburn 12:45: Hugh Freeze has been a winner at every stop he made as a HC. His Kryptonite, however, has been Vanderbilt's QB Diego Pavia. Pavia, while playing for New Mexico State in 2022, beat Freeze when he was at Liberty - 49-14. Freeze left for Auburn in 2023, and hosted New Mexico State late in the season only to have Pavia and his Aggies beat him decisively again -31-10 as a 25 point dog. Today, Freeze has to face Pavia with his new team - Vanderbilt - and he's going to have the cold sweats again. All Pavia has done was lead the Commodores to outright upsets over Virginia Tech as a 13 point dog, almost outright at Missouri as a 17' point pup, outright vs SEC powerhouse Alabama at +23, and followed up with an outright at KY as a 13 point dog. Last week, the Commodores made a fierce comeback late to put a scare in Texas as a 17 point dog. Vanderbilt HC Lea did a super job in the transfer portal filling his roster on both sides of the ball and struck gold with Pavia. We'll look for gritty Pavia and the Commodores to no longer take a back seat to anyone in the SEC this season. 

Air Force/Army Noon: The disparity between these teams started last year when they faced each other November 4th. At that time, Army was struggling - on a five-game losing streak while Air Force was undefeated at 8-0. Army rolled them 23-3 and proceeded to win out the season on a 4-0 tear; meanwhile, the Falcons collapsed on a four-game slide only to recover in their bowl game vs a depleted James Madison team. This year, Army continues that roll on a 7-0 SU/6-1 ATS run. Air Force won its opener against lightweight Merrimack and 0-6 vs BCS teams. Army has a Top 10 defense and an exceptional QB in Bryson Daily. He's rushed for a staggering 909 yards at 6.6 YPC with 19 TDs! He's also completed 57% of his passes for 629 yards and 7 TDs with 0 INTs. On the other hand, Air Force is struggling bad in their run game, which spells TROUBLE in an option attack. They averaged a paltry 4.4 yards per play and defensively can't stop the run (allow 5.1 YPC). QB play very shaky from Busha and Hayes. We'll lay the wood with the machine-like Army.  

Ohio State/Penn State Noon: Knock on Penn State HC Franklin is that he can't deliver against the conference elite. Penn State missing that big time athlete on the offensive side of the ball. Franklin hasn't had that dude since 2017 with Saquon Barkley. And he still doesn't. QB Drew Allar has a new OC Kotelnicki to open the offense with and the 'Lions have improved on yards per play and yards per completion but still rank 33rd in scoring. Allar's best target -Tyler Warren will surely get the needed attention from the athletic Ohio State secondary. Buckeyes sport the #2 defense in yards allowed and #4 in points allowed. Offensively, the Buckeyes have the dudes that Penn State doesn't. QB Howard has an embarrassment of riches to go to in RB Henderson, WRs Tate, Edbuka, Smith. One problem is the LT Simmons (knee). His replacement Michalski struggled last week and is injured as well. Nevertheless, look for HC Day to find a way to get it rolling this week. Buckeyes can ill afford another loss. He should get it done. Penn State's HC Franklin 1-9 SU vs OSU including 0-7 slide. OSU!

Analysis to follow...

Louisiana/Texas State 7:30: Ragin' Cajuns having a great year thanks to good QB play by veteran Wooldridge, a run game and a defense that's complementing the offense. Texas State, meanwhile, coming off an upset loss, has turnover issues, including 7 INTs from QB McCloud. Bobcats are 1-9 ATS in this series. And they're 3-11 ATS as favorites of less than 14 points vs teams above .250. We'll grab the points with the road team. 

Cincinnati/Colorado 10:15: Colorado was my Top Play last week and they delivered in blowout fashion; however, I'm going to fade them here vs a stubborn Cincinnati team. Bearcats have been in every game this season including almost knocking off undefeated Pittsburgh back in September. QB Sorsby is having a great season. He's got help from RB Kiner behind a veteran offensive line. And the Bearcats' defense doesn't surrender a whole lot of points (19.3 PPG) considering the potent offenses they faced. Colorado's pass game is strong but Bearcats a bit more well rounded under Satterfield. Cincinnati the call. 

Kansas/Kansas State 8:00: Kansas had a breakout season last year in Lance Leipold's third year as HC; this year, they've underachieved and, although staying in games, unable to close. Last week, they got it together with a blowout win over Houston. Kansas fired up to save their season with a win against their in-state rival whom they haven't beaten in their last 15 attempts. Kansas clearly not as bad as their record indicates. QB Jalon Daniels is a baller and he's got run game help from Devin Neal. Defensively, they're respectable too. We'll look for the Jayhawks to keep this one tight. 

LSU/Texas A&M 7:30: Host in this series is 7-0 SU. A&M in revenge mode from last year's loss in Baton Rouge. A&M sports a top 20 defense, competent QB in Weigman who is surrounded by veteran players, including a run game with Moss. Aggies the call. 

Penn State/Wisconsin 7:30: After struggling in September, Wisconsin got it together in Big 10 play reeling off three straight wins in impressive fashion. The run game is cooking with Walker and QB Locke is making better decisions. Penn State has owned this series in recent times with 5 straight wins but Wisconsin has been competitive in all. Lions had a week to stall out their sizzling momentum while Wisconsin picked up theirs. Penn State 0-4 ATS with rest vs less than .666 conference opponent. Take the Badgers. 

Boise State/UNLV 10:30: Barry Odom can flat out coach, but he'll have his hands full on trying to stop RB Jeanty. Jeanty is on pace to break Barry Sanders' 1988 rush record. When you can go into Oregon and rush for 192 yards and TD's, you're special. UNLV defense is respectable and has a decent run stop unit but back-end coverage vs the pass has been suspect. Boise State can also air it out when needed. QB Madsen is solid and has some good receivers to go to including Camper. UNLV offense is productive as well. But QB H.M. Williams, who took over for departed Sluka vs Fresno State, has not been the sharpest. Boise State has a veteran defense that can get after the QB (#1 nationally in sacks w/ 5 per game). With an extra prep week, and nearly unstoppable run game, edge to the visitor. 

Middle Tennessee State/Jacksonville State 7:30: Coaching mismatch here with Rodriquez controlling a significant edge. He has Gamecocks rolling on a 3-0 SU/ATS run and winning in blowout fashion. Mason, on the other hand, continues to pile up the losses on his FBS ledger. Derek Mason, the former Vanderbilt coach who sports an unimpressive 25-60 coaching record, won two games against struggling lightweights Tennessee Tech and Kennesaw State in his first season with the Blue Raiders. MTSU currently ranks in the bottom tier in categories offensively and defensively. Look for Jacksonville State to roll again. 

UTEP/LT 8:00: LT just can't get it together under HC Cumbie. Part of the problem is their inability to run the football at 115th in the nation with an average of just 3 YPC. QB Bulloch posts good numbers. Tonight, they should be able to establish the run game vs the Swiss Cheese run-stop-unit that allows 213 YPG on the ground. Defensively, LT, again, posts good numbers but on the field too long to hold off teams late. They'll need to cut down on penalties and get to the QB - two areas that cost them in an upset loss at NMSU last week. UTEP, coming off a satisfying upset win last week vs FIU, sports an 0-6 ATS mark on weekdays off a SU win. LT the call.  

Georgia/Texas 7:30: Kirby Smart and Georgia haven't been underdogs since the first game of the 2021 season on a neutral field vs Clemson. Bulldogs won and covered that game 10-3. Smart has been effective in getting Georgia pumped for big games and they'll need to be at their best with one loss already on their ledger. We'll look for them to deliver here vs the seemingly invincible Longhorns who haven't been challenged yet. Georgia the call.  

LSU/Arkansas 7:00: LSU coming off a huge come from behind win against Ole Miss won't have an easy time with well rested Arkansas. Hogs are eager to avenge last season's 34-31 loss as a 17-point underdog at Death Valley. Razorbacks have a versatile QB in Taylen Green and a deep backfield behind a veteran line that keeps the chains moving (12 in nation in Time of possession). Defensively, Arkansas' DC Travis Williams has successfully matched personnel to slow offenses down. He had six defensive backs at times to confuse Tennessee QB Lamaleava who was sacked 4 times and held to 158 yards passing. Arkansas had an additional week to scheme for this. Arkansas a sweet 9-1 ATS with rest and revenge in conference games since 2014. They're also 6-0 ATS as a home dog of less than 7 points off a double-digit ATS win. Arkansas the call. 

Colorado/Arizona 4:00: Arizona not the same team they were under Fisch as they are under Brennan. Arizona QB Fifita already has nine interceptions. His top receiver - All American - McMillan will surely be shaded by two-way superstar Colorado's lockdown CB - Travis Hunter (shoulder) who is good to go. Colorado is looking to avenge last year's close 34-31 loss. This season, Colorado an overall better team while Arizona has regressed under Brennan. Arizona has a disturbing trend of 1-10 ATS off a double-digit SU loss vs an opponent with revenge. Edge to Colorado today. 

Michigan/Illinois 3:30: Illinois, under Bielema, has demonstrated ability to step up and play tough vs top rate competition. They've also exhibited playing down to their competitors - such the case last week with the narrow win against conference lightweight Purdue. Bielema's bunch fought tooth and nail vs the Wolverines at the Big House in 2022 -- losing 19-17 as a 17-point dog.  Illinois a season and a half to avenge that loss. Although Michigan has the benefit of a better defense and run game, Bielema does have a significant advantage at QB with Altmeyer. Blitz pickup should have been paramount in preparation for the week to protect Altmeyer. He's been sacked way too many times. When he has the time, he's dangerous. On the other hand, Wolves are down to their third option at QB in 7th year stick around perennial backup guy -Tuttle who replaced ineffective Orji at Washington on the 5th. Tuttle has never started a game. Illinois' defense will surely load the box in anticipation of another Sherrone Moore predominant run game. Fighting Illini, with solid back-end coverage skill and athletic corners, will not be intimidated with the 132nd pass team in the nation. We'll look for Illinois to keep this one tight. 

Arizona State/Cincinnati Noon: While both of these teams are showing life in the Big 12 after dismal seasons last year, I like the Sun Devils here based on their better defense and run game. Sure, QB Leavitt (ribs) is out; however, Sims is a very capable backup. Sims started 23 games for Georgia Tech and 2 games for Nebraska before transferring to Arizona State. He's mobile and has the bruising RB Skattebo (129 YPG) to keep the chains moving against a Bearcats' defense that allows a generous 4.9 Y.P.C. Defensively, Sun Devils are stingy with a solid secondary and very good run stop unit. Bearcats' offense has put the ball on the turf (1 fumble per game -126th nationally) and it could bite them here vs the opportunistic Sun Devils. Sorsby is a good QB but may need to pass more than he's comfortable with today. We'll take the points. 

Analysis to follow...

Boston College/Virginia Tech 7:30: Lane Stadium is a tough venue to play in; however, BC has a veteran team with a competent signal caller in Castellanos. The versatile QB had a rough 3 interception day on October 5th at Virginia. The Eagles surrendered a 14 point lead in the loss. Look for Bill O'Brien to have them well prepped for this revenge game. They were beaten handily last year in Chestnut Hill. BC's defense has improved dramatically. On the other hand, VT's defense has been yielding against the run. BC likes to get that ground game going and controlling the clock. Tech a money burning 2-14 ATS as conference favorites of less than 13 points vs opponent with revenge. Take BC

WK/SHSU 7:00: Last season, the Bearkats struggled to find a semblance of offensive balance until late in the season when they went on a 3-1 SU/3-0 ATS roll. This season, they found a pretty good signal caller in versatile Hunter Watson who is surrounded by a solid skill personnel and veteran offensive line. And the defense remains stingy. WK defense shaky in areas. Last year, Bearkats held their own in this matchup covering easily as a 10 point road dog. This year, much better offensively and very well coached under Keeler. We'll grab SHSU in a successful revenge win. 

Iowa State/West Virginia 8:00: Respect the Mountaineers but Iowa State is rolling. The Cyclones have a much more well balance team now. Iowa State, which is very experienced with a ton of returning production from last year, is on a mission with QB Rocco Becht at the helm. Becht has a veteran surrounding cast including a strong run game with RB Jackson. Defensively, Cyclones may yield yardage but are outstanding keeping teams out of the end zone at 10 PPG (6th nationally). Cyclones 7-1 ATS vs opponent off back-to-back SUATS wins (last as a dog). We'll lay a FG with Iowa State on the road. 

Ole Miss/LSU 7:30: Last season, these teams amassed a combined 1095 yards in a 55-49 shootout win for Ole Miss. A season later, Ole Miss appears to be in the driver's seat. With an abundance of returning production and starters, Ole Miss, 5-1 ATS, sports a Top 5 defense in the Nation and #10 in the nation scoring offense with QB Jaxson Dart back along with Miami Hurricanes star RB transfer - Parish. Meanwhile, LSU, 1-4 ATS, no longer has Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels racking up big rushing and passing numbers, and a defense that still yields a ton of yardage and 49th in scoring allowed. QB Nussmeier is solid in his passing but not the running threat Daniels was. Sure, the Tigers have won and covered 5 straight in Baton Rouge, but even with the extra prep days, not the quality team Ole Miss has. Rebels the call.