War Damn Eagle!!! Your defending SEC Champions open the 2014 season at home, jumping right into conference play against the Arkansas Razorbacks. Perhaps the biggest story for Auburn going into this game is that last year's starting QB, Nick Marshall will not start the game due to being cited for misdemeanor marijuana possession a month ago. Instead it'll be sophomore Jeremy Johnson starting the game under center. Marshall will play in the game, but Coach Gus Malzahn has not let it be known to the press when Marshall will enter. Whether it's a play, a series, a quarter or even a half is anyone's beset guess at this point. Also suspended for the start of this game for Auburn is senior cornerback Jonathon Mincy. He got arrested in late June for second degree marijuana possession. Like Marshall, Coach Malzahn has not let it be known when Mincy will enter the game.
The other biggest storyline of this game might be the tension between the two head coaches, Malzahn and Arkansas's Bret Bielema. The tension stems from their thoughts about the hurry up offense. Gus loves to run the hurry up, no huddle offense he has employed since coaching at high school in Arkansas. It all began last year at SEC media days when Bielema mentioned how he doesn't approve of the hurry up offense since he believes it exposes players to further injury. Malzahn countered that by saying he thought it was a joke when someone mentioned Bielema's comments to him. Bielema got a little defensive by saying he wasn't joking and is not a comedian. Needless to say, Bielema put it best. While the two coaches won't beat each other up before the game, they won't exactly be breaking bread with one another anytime soon.
Obviously the Razorbacks will look to pound the ball with their power running attack and keep Auburn's hurry up offense off the field. Arkansas has the running backs needed to do this. Sophomore Alex Collins rushed for 1026 yards as a true freshman while junior Jonathan Williams added 900 yards of his own on the ground. Those two will need to be big time if the Hogs are going to have a chance. At some point I'd expect Auburn defensive coordinator to stack the box and force QB Brandon Allen to beat his defense. That could be a solid strategy given his 2013 struggles with accuracy. He only completed 49.6 percent of his passes while throwing for just 13 TDs and 10 interceptions. Those numbers will need to get better this season.
As far as Auburn is concerned, they did lose a couple of key contributors offensively in running back Tre Mason, fullback Jay Prosch and left tackle Greg Robinson, but just about everyone else returns and the Tigers add highly regarded JUCO wide receiver D'haquille Williams. He and returning #1 receiver Sammie Coates should form a fantastic duo. At running back, I'd expect to see a lot of Cameron Artis-Payne and Corey Grant, but also expect redshirt freshman Peyton Barber as well as very talented and explosive true freshman Roc Thomas be in the mix as well. Cancer survivor Shon Coleman will step in for the departed Robinson as the starting left tackle. The Tigers will also have to overcome the loss of Alex Kozan to a back injury. He did an outstanding job a year ago as a true freshman starting inside at guard. Taking over for him will be sophomore Avery Young with another true sophomore Jordan Diamond backing him up. Watch out for true freshman Braden Smith. He's a monster who has truly impressed the coaching staff in practices. He is listed as the backup to Shon Coleman at left tackle and could definitely shift inside to either guard spot should the need arise. Right tackle is taken up by junior Patrick Miller. The anchor of the line though will be senior center Reese Dismukes.
The defense will have to overcome the loss of defensive end Dee Ford to the NFL and also sophomore defensive end Carl Lawson to an ACL injury. At the moment, listed atop the depth chart along the defensive line are sophomore defensive end Elijah Daniel and then three seniors, DE Gabe Wright and defensive tackles Angelo Blackson and Jeff Whitaker. The backups will contribute plenty though as defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson likes to rotate defensive lineman in and out throughout games in order to keep everyone fresh towards the end of the game. The main backup I'd watch out for is sophomore defensive tackle Montravius Adams. He was a highly decorated recruit coming out of high school. I could see his game really taking off this year. Cassanova McKinzy will start at middle linebacker while junior Kris Frost will take over for departed senior Jake Holland. Although I'd watch out for true freshman Tre' Williams if I were Frost. I think he'll prove to be too talented to keep off the field all season long. The star position will have a new face at least at the start with junior Justin Garrett while true freshman Nick Ruffin is listed as the primary backup. That is at least until Robenson Therezie can get his academic issues in order, if he gets them in order. The listed starting corners are Jonathon Mincy and Jonathan Jones; although Mincy won't start the season opener as I mentioned above. At safety, sophomore Rudy Ford and senior Jermaine Whitehead sit atop the depth chart. Behind Ford is JUCO transfer Derrick Moncrief. I eventually see him making a big impact. True freshman Stephen Roberts is listed as the primary backup to Whitehead.
Special teams will look a little different this year as well. Gone are kicker Cody Parkey and punter Steven Clark. Redshirt freshman Daniel Carlson is listed on double duty at least early on as both the kicker and punter. He'll need to be terrific in order to make up for those losses. We'll see if he's up for it. True freshman running back Roc Thomas is listed as one of the two primary kick returners, so that shows you the coaching staff will get creative in getting the ball in his hands to go along with being in the mix for carries at running back. Speedy senior Corey Grant is the other primary kickoff return man. Senior Quan Bray seems like the likely punt return man.
Anyway, to get onto my thoughts about this game with Arkansas, I think the Tigers just have too much talent on both sides of the ball for the Razorbacks to keep up for the full 60 minutes. That hurry up offense with Artis-Payne, Grant and Nick Marshall (yes, I expect he'll play plenty) will rack up the yards on the ground while an improved passing game will make sure the Hogs defense can't just worry about the run. Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams will rack up a good amount of yards on the ground for Arkansas offensively, but it won't be enough for coach Bret Bielema to get his first SEC win. He and the Hogs went 0-8 in conference play a year ago. Make it 0 for 9.
My Call: Auburn 41, Arkansas 20
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Seven Other Notable Games
These games don't involve currently ranked teams (at least not in the AP poll), but they are interesting in my mind in their own ways.
Eastern Illinois Panthers at Minnesota Golden Gophers
Last year, Eastern Illinois was able to lay a whooping on a good San Diego State team and gave what turned out to be a 12 win Northern Illinois team a wail of a game, both on the road. So you can be sure they won't be too intimidated by traveling to Big Ten country. However, those games last year came with NFL prospect Jimmy Garoppolo under center. Garoppolo put up amazing stats which caused him to be a second round selection by the New England Patriots in the 2014 Draft. My guess is their new QB won't be quite as good, but they've got a lot of key guys other than Garoppolo back, so they'll end up making a game of this.
My Call: Minnesota 30, Eastern Illinois 23
Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Washington State Cougars (at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, WA)Wazzu coach Mike Leach is looking to take the next step forward in his third season at the helm in Pullman after taking the Cougs to a bowl game a year ago while Rutgers coach Kyle Flood might be coaching for his job this year. Coach Flood doesn't get an easy opener as traveling to Seattle in what will essentially be a road game against Leach's Air Raid offense. I do believe the Knights will put points on the board and that Washington State QB Connor Halliday will make a couple mistakes as he's prone to do, but I also expect Halliday to make up for it with 3 or 4 TD tosses and 400+ yards in the air to lead Washington State to a pretty wild season opening win.
My Call: Washington State 49, Rutgers 38
Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes (at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO)Buffs head coach Mike MacIntyre is in a somewhat similar position to where Colorado State head coach Jim McElwain was a year ago. McElwain went 4-8 in his first year at the helm of the Rams football program, then won 8 games in 2013, including that miracle comeback in the New Mexico Bowl against Washington State. MacIntyre went 4-8 a year ago in his first full season as the Buffs head coach and will look to take a step forward to a bowl game like McElwain did. With the four wins a year ago, Colorado equaled the number of wins they had combined in 2011 and 2012. That's a nice step forward; and it included a win over Colorado State in this yearly rivalry game. Can the Buffs makes it two straight over their in-state rivals? They'd better; or else it'll be tough to take that next step forward in the MacIntyre era in what promises to be a tough Pac 12 Conference.
My Call: Colorado 30, Colorado State 24
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Central Florida Golden Knights (at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland)Tough debut as Penn State head coach for James Franklin, who was hired away from Vanderbilt after he did an outstanding job as the Commodores head man the last three years. UCF returns a lot of players from last year's team that won the Fiesta Bowl over Baylor, but one guy who's gone is QB Blake Bortles. He was taken third overall in the 2014 Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. I am not sure if a volcano is still lurking as a possible threat to this game being played in Ireland, but I'll go off the assumption that these two teams will play. I'm going to take the Nittany Lions in a hotly contested affair. They have the new coach as well as very talented now true sophomore Christian Hackenberg under center. The game should slow down for him more this season. For those on the West Coast and in Hawaii, you'll have to get up early or stay up all night for this one, but it could be worth it.
My Call: Penn State 23, Central Florida 20
Appalachian State Mountaineers at Michigan WolverinesRemember 2007 when Appalachian State went to Ann Arbor and stunned the #5 ranked Michigan Wolverines in a wild finish which saw the Mountaineers block a last ditch field goal attempt and win the game 34-32? I do. Problem is that was a very good Appalachian State team at the time as they were winning three straight FCS national championships. This version is coming off a bad 2013 season where they went 4-8. While Michigan may not be up to the standards they're used to, which may have coach Brady Hoke on the hot seat, I'm not expecting a repeat of 2007. This time the Wolverines will cruise after a bit of a slow start.
My Call: Michigan 41, Appalachian State 10
North Dakota State Bison at Iowa State Cyclones Dangerous game to begin the year for Iowa State as they host the three-time defending FCS Champions. Craig Bohl, the head coach of those teams may have taken his act to Wyoming but the foundation sure remains. His defensive coordinator the last two seasons, Chris Klieman, takes over as the new head coach. Kansas State found out last year the hard way as they lost 24-21 at home not to take these guys lightly as did Minnesota in 2012. Focusing fully on this game may not be easy for Iowa State though as they host Kansas State a week after playing this one. Am I crazy? Perhaps so. I'm gonna call for the upset. My Call: North Dakota State 24, Iowa State 23
Northern Iowa Panthers at Iowa Hawkeyes
Like their in state rivals, the Hawkeyes also face an interesting first week challenge. No, Northern Iowa hasn't had nearly the success of North Dakota State these last three years, but they've gone to play FBS teams on the road and not been the least bit intimidated by it. Last year, they went to Aimes and upset Iowa State by a 28-20 final. In 2012, they hung tough with Wisconsin at Camp Randall Stadium in a 26-21 loss and also tough with Iowa at Kinnick Field in a 27-16 defeat. I see these Panthers going into Iowa City and giving it their best but coming up a little short. They just won't put up quite enough points to make the upset happen.
My Call: Iowa 24, Northern Iowa 17
Utah State Aggies at Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee needs to be very careful themselves as they face a Utah State team that will also not be intimidated by the 100 thousand plus fans at Neyland Stadium. Over the last three years, the Aggies have traveled to Auburn (2011), Wisconsin (2012) and USC (2013). They lost all three of those games, but only by two, three and four points respectively. Plus Utah State may well have the best player on the field for this game in QB Chuckie Keeton. Keeton has struggled some to stay healthy, but he's one of the most exciting players in college football you don't know about when he plays. Another thing Utah State has going for it is Tennessee's lack of proven QB play. But one thing Tennessee has is a major size advantage at WR over the Utah State corners. I'm going to call another close but no cigar road loss for the Aggies, though it wouldn't surprise me if they finally come through.
My Call: Tennessee 27, Utah State 23
Miami Hurricanes at Louisville Cardinals
The return of Bobby Petrino to the Louisville sidelines begins with a tough ACC opener at home against "The U." Like him or not (I personally don't), Petrino sure can coach. At least he can at the college level anyway. His teams sure can light up a scoreboard. He'll have to do it this year with a new QB after Teddy Bridgewater departed for the NFL; he was taken by the Minnesota Vikings with the final pick of the first round in May's draft. Louisville's starting QB will be the redshirt sophomore, Will Gardner. Three years ago while Charlie Strong (now the Texas head coach) was still the head coach at Louisville, he helped recruit Gardner and beat out the likes of Alabama and Mississippi State for his services. That should tell you something. Miami running back Duke Johnson won't be easily slowed, but I'm thinking the Cards will do enough offensively to win Petrino's re-debut.
My Call: Louisville 31, Miami 27
Eastern Illinois Panthers at Minnesota Golden Gophers
Last year, Eastern Illinois was able to lay a whooping on a good San Diego State team and gave what turned out to be a 12 win Northern Illinois team a wail of a game, both on the road. So you can be sure they won't be too intimidated by traveling to Big Ten country. However, those games last year came with NFL prospect Jimmy Garoppolo under center. Garoppolo put up amazing stats which caused him to be a second round selection by the New England Patriots in the 2014 Draft. My guess is their new QB won't be quite as good, but they've got a lot of key guys other than Garoppolo back, so they'll end up making a game of this.
My Call: Minnesota 30, Eastern Illinois 23
Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Washington State Cougars (at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, WA)Wazzu coach Mike Leach is looking to take the next step forward in his third season at the helm in Pullman after taking the Cougs to a bowl game a year ago while Rutgers coach Kyle Flood might be coaching for his job this year. Coach Flood doesn't get an easy opener as traveling to Seattle in what will essentially be a road game against Leach's Air Raid offense. I do believe the Knights will put points on the board and that Washington State QB Connor Halliday will make a couple mistakes as he's prone to do, but I also expect Halliday to make up for it with 3 or 4 TD tosses and 400+ yards in the air to lead Washington State to a pretty wild season opening win.
My Call: Washington State 49, Rutgers 38
Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes (at Sports Authority Field in Denver, CO)Buffs head coach Mike MacIntyre is in a somewhat similar position to where Colorado State head coach Jim McElwain was a year ago. McElwain went 4-8 in his first year at the helm of the Rams football program, then won 8 games in 2013, including that miracle comeback in the New Mexico Bowl against Washington State. MacIntyre went 4-8 a year ago in his first full season as the Buffs head coach and will look to take a step forward to a bowl game like McElwain did. With the four wins a year ago, Colorado equaled the number of wins they had combined in 2011 and 2012. That's a nice step forward; and it included a win over Colorado State in this yearly rivalry game. Can the Buffs makes it two straight over their in-state rivals? They'd better; or else it'll be tough to take that next step forward in the MacIntyre era in what promises to be a tough Pac 12 Conference.
My Call: Colorado 30, Colorado State 24
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Central Florida Golden Knights (at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland)Tough debut as Penn State head coach for James Franklin, who was hired away from Vanderbilt after he did an outstanding job as the Commodores head man the last three years. UCF returns a lot of players from last year's team that won the Fiesta Bowl over Baylor, but one guy who's gone is QB Blake Bortles. He was taken third overall in the 2014 Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. I am not sure if a volcano is still lurking as a possible threat to this game being played in Ireland, but I'll go off the assumption that these two teams will play. I'm going to take the Nittany Lions in a hotly contested affair. They have the new coach as well as very talented now true sophomore Christian Hackenberg under center. The game should slow down for him more this season. For those on the West Coast and in Hawaii, you'll have to get up early or stay up all night for this one, but it could be worth it.
My Call: Penn State 23, Central Florida 20
Appalachian State Mountaineers at Michigan WolverinesRemember 2007 when Appalachian State went to Ann Arbor and stunned the #5 ranked Michigan Wolverines in a wild finish which saw the Mountaineers block a last ditch field goal attempt and win the game 34-32? I do. Problem is that was a very good Appalachian State team at the time as they were winning three straight FCS national championships. This version is coming off a bad 2013 season where they went 4-8. While Michigan may not be up to the standards they're used to, which may have coach Brady Hoke on the hot seat, I'm not expecting a repeat of 2007. This time the Wolverines will cruise after a bit of a slow start.
My Call: Michigan 41, Appalachian State 10
North Dakota State Bison at Iowa State Cyclones Dangerous game to begin the year for Iowa State as they host the three-time defending FCS Champions. Craig Bohl, the head coach of those teams may have taken his act to Wyoming but the foundation sure remains. His defensive coordinator the last two seasons, Chris Klieman, takes over as the new head coach. Kansas State found out last year the hard way as they lost 24-21 at home not to take these guys lightly as did Minnesota in 2012. Focusing fully on this game may not be easy for Iowa State though as they host Kansas State a week after playing this one. Am I crazy? Perhaps so. I'm gonna call for the upset. My Call: North Dakota State 24, Iowa State 23
Northern Iowa Panthers at Iowa Hawkeyes
Like their in state rivals, the Hawkeyes also face an interesting first week challenge. No, Northern Iowa hasn't had nearly the success of North Dakota State these last three years, but they've gone to play FBS teams on the road and not been the least bit intimidated by it. Last year, they went to Aimes and upset Iowa State by a 28-20 final. In 2012, they hung tough with Wisconsin at Camp Randall Stadium in a 26-21 loss and also tough with Iowa at Kinnick Field in a 27-16 defeat. I see these Panthers going into Iowa City and giving it their best but coming up a little short. They just won't put up quite enough points to make the upset happen.
My Call: Iowa 24, Northern Iowa 17
Utah State Aggies at Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee needs to be very careful themselves as they face a Utah State team that will also not be intimidated by the 100 thousand plus fans at Neyland Stadium. Over the last three years, the Aggies have traveled to Auburn (2011), Wisconsin (2012) and USC (2013). They lost all three of those games, but only by two, three and four points respectively. Plus Utah State may well have the best player on the field for this game in QB Chuckie Keeton. Keeton has struggled some to stay healthy, but he's one of the most exciting players in college football you don't know about when he plays. Another thing Utah State has going for it is Tennessee's lack of proven QB play. But one thing Tennessee has is a major size advantage at WR over the Utah State corners. I'm going to call another close but no cigar road loss for the Aggies, though it wouldn't surprise me if they finally come through.
My Call: Tennessee 27, Utah State 23
Miami Hurricanes at Louisville Cardinals
The return of Bobby Petrino to the Louisville sidelines begins with a tough ACC opener at home against "The U." Like him or not (I personally don't), Petrino sure can coach. At least he can at the college level anyway. His teams sure can light up a scoreboard. He'll have to do it this year with a new QB after Teddy Bridgewater departed for the NFL; he was taken by the Minnesota Vikings with the final pick of the first round in May's draft. Louisville's starting QB will be the redshirt sophomore, Will Gardner. Three years ago while Charlie Strong (now the Texas head coach) was still the head coach at Louisville, he helped recruit Gardner and beat out the likes of Alabama and Mississippi State for his services. That should tell you something. Miami running back Duke Johnson won't be easily slowed, but I'm thinking the Cards will do enough offensively to win Petrino's re-debut.
My Call: Louisville 31, Miami 27
Top 25 Picks (Sans Auburn)
Gonna pick the Auburn game last since I'm an Auburn fan and I believe in saving my own team for last. Here's the rundown of the Top 25 to begin with. I'll go by the AP Poll. Sometimes the AP Poll and the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll don't have the same rankings, so I'm letting everyone know these are rankings based upon the AP Poll to avoid confusion.
#1 Florida State vs. Oklahoma State (at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas)
Defending national champion Florida State is favored to repeat as they are the #1 ranked team in both polls. If they do it, they will start the season at AT&T Stadium and end it there as the first time college football playoff championship game will be held there. They'll open their defense against Big 12 contender Oklahoma State. FSU lost a few key players to the NFL, but still has the most important guy, Heisman Trophy winning QB Jameis Winston. Yeah, he may be prone to steal some crab legs, but let's face it, he's very, very good. I don't see the Okie State defense having any answers for the Seminoles offense. A new starting QB for the Pokes will get a rude welcome to the 2014 season.
My Call: Florida State 42, Oklahoma State 23
#2 Alabama vs. West Virginia (at Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia)
There's a bit of a QB controversy for the Crimson Tide as Florida State transfer Jacob Coker and senior Blake Sims are listed as "co starters" at the moment. Sooner or later, I do believe the Crimson Tide will have to find a true answer to that controversy, but I don't see it being a big problem against a West Virginia team that will struggle mightily to contain running backs T.J. Yeldon and Derrick Henry. I don't expect Nick Saban will make this complicated for his QBs. Just a heavy dose of Yeldon and Henry will be plenty to defeat the Mountaineers handily.
My Call: Alabama 41, West Virginia 14
South Dakota at #3 Oregon
Nice warmup for the Ducks before going up against defending Rose Bowl champion Michigan State at home in Week 2. Marcus Mariotta and the Oregon offense will play for about a half and put up some big numbers before giving way to the backups. They can name the score here.
My Call: Oregon 70, South Dakota 3
Louisiana Tech at #4 Oklahoma
Poor Louisiana Tech. They have an awful 4-8 season in the first year of the Skip Holtz era and get to start his second season with a trip to Norman to take on the powerhouse Sooners. We'll see over the course of the season if OU quarterback Trevor Knight is the guy who had some struggles during the 2013 season or the guy who was simply brilliant in the Sugar Bowl stomping of Alabama. Fortunately for Knight, he won't have to be the latter guy for OU to win this one big. He'll have his moments for sure though in this non-conference showdown.
My Call: Oklahoma 42, Louisiana Tech 10
#5 Ohio State vs. Navy (at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland)
To me, this is a game that would be a little more interesting if it were being played a couple weeks into the season. Navy's triple option offense can be a pain to stop, but Ohio State has maybe the best defensive line in the country and Urban Meyer has had all summer to figure out a way to slow down the complex Navy offense. Even without Braxton Miller, the Buckeye offense should put up plenty while the Navy offense has its moments but is unable to keep up.
My Call: Ohio State 38, Navy 20
#7 UCLA at Virginia
Two potential Heisman Contenders will make their 2014 debuts for the UCLA Bruins; QB Brett Hundley and linebacker/running back Myles Jack. Those two are worth the price of admission alone. Virginia head coach Mike London enters this year on the hot seat following a nightmare 2013 for the Cavaliers which saw them go 0-8 in conference play and 2-10 overall. He and the Cavs will start out 2014 0-1. UCLA rolls.
My Call: UCLA 44, Virginia 17
Jacksonville State at #8 Michigan State
As mentioned above, Sparty will be going to Eugene to take on Oregon at Autzen Stadium next week. Like Oregon this week, they get a tuneup before the real test starts. I don't expect Michigan State to light up the scoreboard to the degree of Oregon, but they'll light it up plenty to win this one big.
My Call: Michigan State 48, Jacksonville State 6
#21 Texas A&M at #9 South Carolina
A fantastic first week SEC showdown will be displaying two teams with new starting QBs. The Johnny Manziel era is over at Texas A&M while the same applies to the Connor Shaw era at South Carolina. I don't know about the rib injury to South Carolina running back Mike Davis, but a few days after saying he may miss this game, now coach Steve Spurrier expects him to play. I'm not sure Davis will be 100 percent, but whether he is or not, that wouldn't change my pick for this game. When in doubt, go with the team you have faith in to come up with a defensive stop when needed. Being at home certainly doesn't hurt, either.
My Call: South Carolina 38, Texas A&M 31
Southern Methodist at #10 Baylor
SMU will put up some points, June Jones offenses always tend to do so, but won't put up nearly enough to keep up with Heisman contender Bryce Petty and that Bears offense. The senior QB will get his final college season off to a booming start.
My Call: Baylor 62, SMU 27
UC-Davis at #11 Stanford
For those who thought the Stanford football program may come down to earth after Jim Harbaugh left for the NFL, think again. David Shaw has the program running as big and bad as ever before. The Cardinal may be thinking slightly ahead to their game against USC next week, but UC-Davis won't put up much of a fight either way.
My Call: Stanford 41, UC-Davis 7
#16 Clemson at #12 Georgia
Like with Texas A&M and South Carolina, both these programs are also going through QB changes. Aaron Murray ran out of eligibility at Georgia while it was the same story for Tajh Boyd at Clemson. The Bulldogs will be turning to senior QB Hutson Mason while Clemson will be turning to a combo of senior Cole Stoudt as well as very talented incoming freshman Deshaun Watson. Stoudt has only seen the field for Clemson during garbage time while Mason at least has some legit game experience against the likes of Georgia Tech and Nebraska. Unfortunately that experience came as a result of Murray getting hurt, but that's football for you. And it's also why I give the Dogs the edge in this one. Being in Athens rather than Clemson also helps.
My Call: Georgia 41, Clemson 31
#14 Wisconsin vs. #13 LSU (at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas)
If you're Wisconsin and the Big 10, you're looking for some credibility here. The Badgers could have a chance to get it as LSU has questions on offense. Coach Les Miles is gonna go with a two QB system with Anthony Jennings and true freshman Brandon Harris. Another thing this game features is two fantastic running backs. The Badgers received great news with Melvin Gordon returning after an outstanding 2013 where he established himself as one of the best running backs in college football. LSU counters with true freshman Leonard Fournette. He doesn't have Gordon's body of work at the college levels, but Fournette has drawn comparisons to NFL superstar running back Adrian Peterson. Certainly high praise and putting no pressure on him, right? Ultimately, I like the Badgers in this game for a couple reasons. Yes, there may be more purple and yellow in Houston this weekend, but LSU has a lot of uncertainty surrounding its QB situation, which to me isn't good when they lost receivers like Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham to the NFL. No doubt the LSU offense will get better as the season goes on, but this is a good time for Wisconsin to catch LSU. This should be a classic.
My Call: Wisconsin 30, LSU 27
Fresno State at #15 USC
Let's see... Fresno State had Derek Carr and Davante Adams against USC on a neutral field at the Las Vegas Bowl last season and got blown out. This year, both Carr and Adams are in the NFL while this game is being played at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. That's not good for Fresno State.
My Call: USC 35, Fresno State 17
Rice at #17 Notre Dame
This game marks the return of QB Everett Golson, who helped lead Notre Dame to a BCS title game appearance two years ago before sitting out last year due to academic issues. The Irish are dealing with more academic issues right now as they'll be without the services of four players for this one. It shouldn't matter much for this game though. Next week against Michigan? Maybe.
My Call: Notre Dame 31, Rice 14
Boise State vs. #18 Ole Miss (at Georgia Dome in Atlanta)
The Boise State Broncos have made habits of being giant killers in the past, but that was while Chris Peterson as head coach. With Peterson gone to Washington, they'll have to develop a new identity under Bryan Harsin. Harsin called plays at Boise State from 2006 to 2010 before taking the same job at Texas for a couple years and then having his first head coaching gig at Arkansas State last year. He's hoping to follow in the path of his coaching counterpart in this one, Hugh Freeze. Like Harsin, Freeze also coached one season at Arkansas State before becoming the head coach at Ole Miss. Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn was the head coach at Arkansas State after Freeze and before Harsin for a year, so you can see the type of coaching talent that's began at Arkansas State. In a battle of former Red Wolf coaches, I'll take Freeze and the more talented Rebels.
My Call: Ole Miss 34, Boise State 27
Weber State at #19 Arizona State
Like a few other top 25 teams, the Sun Devils also get to open the season with a gimme. Led by underrated QB Taylor Kelly offensively, he, running back D.J. Foster and wide receiver Jaelen Strong, the Devils can name their score this week. I'll name my prediction, we'll see how close I come.
My Call: Arizona State 62, Weber State 6
Stephen F. Austin at #20 Kansas State
A 3-9 Southland Conference team from a year ago in Manhattan against Bill Snyder's Wildcats? This one won't end well at all. At least the Lumberjacks should get a decent paycheck for this beating they'll take. K-State can name the score as well.
My Call: Kansas State 55, Stephen F. Austin 10
Florida Atlantic at #22 Nebraska
The Owls tabbed a new head coach for the 2014 season; grabbing long time Bret Bielema assistant Charlie Partridge. His coaching debut is not an easy one with a trip to take on head coach Bo Pelini's Nebraska Cornhuskers. While Coach Pelini may or may not be on the perennial "hot seat", no doubt Husker fans are looking for him to take the program to the next level. His teams haven't been bad, but 9-4 or 10-4 seasons are becoming a bit of a tiresome norm in Lincoln. I'm not sure the Huskers will take that next step forward this year, but they'll get this year off to a 1-0 start. Running back Ameer Abdullah should run wild in this one.
My Call: Nebraska 34, Florida Atlantic 14
Liberty at #23 North Carolina
Like a few non-FBS schools also on this list, Liberty is simply in this game for the paycheck it will receive for taking a hellacious beating. UNC rolls.
My Call: North Carolina 48, Liberty 10
South Dakota State at #24 Missouri
Just another team in it for the paycheck, the Jackrabbits will take it on the chin from new starting QB Matty Mauk and the defending SEC runner up Missouri Tigers.
My Call: Missouri 56, South Dakota State 17
#25 Washington at Hawaii
As mentioned above, the Washington Huskies also have a new head coach. After losing Steve Sarkisian to USC, they did a spectacular job in getting Chris Peterson to leave Boise State to take over in Seattle. He gets somewhat of a tricky opener as this will be a long flight to Hawaii. However, the Warriors just aren't very good. That means it could take some time for the Huskies to get going, especially under a new head coach, QB and running back, but they'll gradually pull away in the 2nd half and start worrying about tougher games down the road.
My Call: Washington 35, Hawaii 13
#1 Florida State vs. Oklahoma State (at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas)
Defending national champion Florida State is favored to repeat as they are the #1 ranked team in both polls. If they do it, they will start the season at AT&T Stadium and end it there as the first time college football playoff championship game will be held there. They'll open their defense against Big 12 contender Oklahoma State. FSU lost a few key players to the NFL, but still has the most important guy, Heisman Trophy winning QB Jameis Winston. Yeah, he may be prone to steal some crab legs, but let's face it, he's very, very good. I don't see the Okie State defense having any answers for the Seminoles offense. A new starting QB for the Pokes will get a rude welcome to the 2014 season.
My Call: Florida State 42, Oklahoma State 23
#2 Alabama vs. West Virginia (at Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia)
There's a bit of a QB controversy for the Crimson Tide as Florida State transfer Jacob Coker and senior Blake Sims are listed as "co starters" at the moment. Sooner or later, I do believe the Crimson Tide will have to find a true answer to that controversy, but I don't see it being a big problem against a West Virginia team that will struggle mightily to contain running backs T.J. Yeldon and Derrick Henry. I don't expect Nick Saban will make this complicated for his QBs. Just a heavy dose of Yeldon and Henry will be plenty to defeat the Mountaineers handily.
My Call: Alabama 41, West Virginia 14
South Dakota at #3 Oregon
Nice warmup for the Ducks before going up against defending Rose Bowl champion Michigan State at home in Week 2. Marcus Mariotta and the Oregon offense will play for about a half and put up some big numbers before giving way to the backups. They can name the score here.
My Call: Oregon 70, South Dakota 3
Louisiana Tech at #4 Oklahoma
Poor Louisiana Tech. They have an awful 4-8 season in the first year of the Skip Holtz era and get to start his second season with a trip to Norman to take on the powerhouse Sooners. We'll see over the course of the season if OU quarterback Trevor Knight is the guy who had some struggles during the 2013 season or the guy who was simply brilliant in the Sugar Bowl stomping of Alabama. Fortunately for Knight, he won't have to be the latter guy for OU to win this one big. He'll have his moments for sure though in this non-conference showdown.
My Call: Oklahoma 42, Louisiana Tech 10
#5 Ohio State vs. Navy (at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland)
To me, this is a game that would be a little more interesting if it were being played a couple weeks into the season. Navy's triple option offense can be a pain to stop, but Ohio State has maybe the best defensive line in the country and Urban Meyer has had all summer to figure out a way to slow down the complex Navy offense. Even without Braxton Miller, the Buckeye offense should put up plenty while the Navy offense has its moments but is unable to keep up.
My Call: Ohio State 38, Navy 20
#7 UCLA at Virginia
Two potential Heisman Contenders will make their 2014 debuts for the UCLA Bruins; QB Brett Hundley and linebacker/running back Myles Jack. Those two are worth the price of admission alone. Virginia head coach Mike London enters this year on the hot seat following a nightmare 2013 for the Cavaliers which saw them go 0-8 in conference play and 2-10 overall. He and the Cavs will start out 2014 0-1. UCLA rolls.
My Call: UCLA 44, Virginia 17
Jacksonville State at #8 Michigan State
As mentioned above, Sparty will be going to Eugene to take on Oregon at Autzen Stadium next week. Like Oregon this week, they get a tuneup before the real test starts. I don't expect Michigan State to light up the scoreboard to the degree of Oregon, but they'll light it up plenty to win this one big.
My Call: Michigan State 48, Jacksonville State 6
#21 Texas A&M at #9 South Carolina
A fantastic first week SEC showdown will be displaying two teams with new starting QBs. The Johnny Manziel era is over at Texas A&M while the same applies to the Connor Shaw era at South Carolina. I don't know about the rib injury to South Carolina running back Mike Davis, but a few days after saying he may miss this game, now coach Steve Spurrier expects him to play. I'm not sure Davis will be 100 percent, but whether he is or not, that wouldn't change my pick for this game. When in doubt, go with the team you have faith in to come up with a defensive stop when needed. Being at home certainly doesn't hurt, either.
My Call: South Carolina 38, Texas A&M 31
Southern Methodist at #10 Baylor
SMU will put up some points, June Jones offenses always tend to do so, but won't put up nearly enough to keep up with Heisman contender Bryce Petty and that Bears offense. The senior QB will get his final college season off to a booming start.
My Call: Baylor 62, SMU 27
UC-Davis at #11 Stanford
For those who thought the Stanford football program may come down to earth after Jim Harbaugh left for the NFL, think again. David Shaw has the program running as big and bad as ever before. The Cardinal may be thinking slightly ahead to their game against USC next week, but UC-Davis won't put up much of a fight either way.
My Call: Stanford 41, UC-Davis 7
#16 Clemson at #12 Georgia
Like with Texas A&M and South Carolina, both these programs are also going through QB changes. Aaron Murray ran out of eligibility at Georgia while it was the same story for Tajh Boyd at Clemson. The Bulldogs will be turning to senior QB Hutson Mason while Clemson will be turning to a combo of senior Cole Stoudt as well as very talented incoming freshman Deshaun Watson. Stoudt has only seen the field for Clemson during garbage time while Mason at least has some legit game experience against the likes of Georgia Tech and Nebraska. Unfortunately that experience came as a result of Murray getting hurt, but that's football for you. And it's also why I give the Dogs the edge in this one. Being in Athens rather than Clemson also helps.
My Call: Georgia 41, Clemson 31
#14 Wisconsin vs. #13 LSU (at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas)
If you're Wisconsin and the Big 10, you're looking for some credibility here. The Badgers could have a chance to get it as LSU has questions on offense. Coach Les Miles is gonna go with a two QB system with Anthony Jennings and true freshman Brandon Harris. Another thing this game features is two fantastic running backs. The Badgers received great news with Melvin Gordon returning after an outstanding 2013 where he established himself as one of the best running backs in college football. LSU counters with true freshman Leonard Fournette. He doesn't have Gordon's body of work at the college levels, but Fournette has drawn comparisons to NFL superstar running back Adrian Peterson. Certainly high praise and putting no pressure on him, right? Ultimately, I like the Badgers in this game for a couple reasons. Yes, there may be more purple and yellow in Houston this weekend, but LSU has a lot of uncertainty surrounding its QB situation, which to me isn't good when they lost receivers like Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham to the NFL. No doubt the LSU offense will get better as the season goes on, but this is a good time for Wisconsin to catch LSU. This should be a classic.
My Call: Wisconsin 30, LSU 27
Fresno State at #15 USC
Let's see... Fresno State had Derek Carr and Davante Adams against USC on a neutral field at the Las Vegas Bowl last season and got blown out. This year, both Carr and Adams are in the NFL while this game is being played at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. That's not good for Fresno State.
My Call: USC 35, Fresno State 17
Rice at #17 Notre Dame
This game marks the return of QB Everett Golson, who helped lead Notre Dame to a BCS title game appearance two years ago before sitting out last year due to academic issues. The Irish are dealing with more academic issues right now as they'll be without the services of four players for this one. It shouldn't matter much for this game though. Next week against Michigan? Maybe.
My Call: Notre Dame 31, Rice 14
Boise State vs. #18 Ole Miss (at Georgia Dome in Atlanta)
The Boise State Broncos have made habits of being giant killers in the past, but that was while Chris Peterson as head coach. With Peterson gone to Washington, they'll have to develop a new identity under Bryan Harsin. Harsin called plays at Boise State from 2006 to 2010 before taking the same job at Texas for a couple years and then having his first head coaching gig at Arkansas State last year. He's hoping to follow in the path of his coaching counterpart in this one, Hugh Freeze. Like Harsin, Freeze also coached one season at Arkansas State before becoming the head coach at Ole Miss. Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn was the head coach at Arkansas State after Freeze and before Harsin for a year, so you can see the type of coaching talent that's began at Arkansas State. In a battle of former Red Wolf coaches, I'll take Freeze and the more talented Rebels.
My Call: Ole Miss 34, Boise State 27
Weber State at #19 Arizona State
Like a few other top 25 teams, the Sun Devils also get to open the season with a gimme. Led by underrated QB Taylor Kelly offensively, he, running back D.J. Foster and wide receiver Jaelen Strong, the Devils can name their score this week. I'll name my prediction, we'll see how close I come.
My Call: Arizona State 62, Weber State 6
Stephen F. Austin at #20 Kansas State
A 3-9 Southland Conference team from a year ago in Manhattan against Bill Snyder's Wildcats? This one won't end well at all. At least the Lumberjacks should get a decent paycheck for this beating they'll take. K-State can name the score as well.
My Call: Kansas State 55, Stephen F. Austin 10
Florida Atlantic at #22 Nebraska
The Owls tabbed a new head coach for the 2014 season; grabbing long time Bret Bielema assistant Charlie Partridge. His coaching debut is not an easy one with a trip to take on head coach Bo Pelini's Nebraska Cornhuskers. While Coach Pelini may or may not be on the perennial "hot seat", no doubt Husker fans are looking for him to take the program to the next level. His teams haven't been bad, but 9-4 or 10-4 seasons are becoming a bit of a tiresome norm in Lincoln. I'm not sure the Huskers will take that next step forward this year, but they'll get this year off to a 1-0 start. Running back Ameer Abdullah should run wild in this one.
My Call: Nebraska 34, Florida Atlantic 14
Liberty at #23 North Carolina
Like a few non-FBS schools also on this list, Liberty is simply in this game for the paycheck it will receive for taking a hellacious beating. UNC rolls.
My Call: North Carolina 48, Liberty 10
South Dakota State at #24 Missouri
Just another team in it for the paycheck, the Jackrabbits will take it on the chin from new starting QB Matty Mauk and the defending SEC runner up Missouri Tigers.
My Call: Missouri 56, South Dakota State 17
#25 Washington at Hawaii
As mentioned above, the Washington Huskies also have a new head coach. After losing Steve Sarkisian to USC, they did a spectacular job in getting Chris Peterson to leave Boise State to take over in Seattle. He gets somewhat of a tricky opener as this will be a long flight to Hawaii. However, the Warriors just aren't very good. That means it could take some time for the Huskies to get going, especially under a new head coach, QB and running back, but they'll gradually pull away in the 2nd half and start worrying about tougher games down the road.
My Call: Washington 35, Hawaii 13
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