CFW Week 5 Forecast - The Deep South's Oldest Rivalry

 CFW Week 5 Forecast – The Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry

Rapid City, a long way

from college football

 

Greetings college football fans from the Alex Johnson Hotel in Rapid City, South Dakota. For the next three days, Swamp Mama and I will be touring, socializing and partying with my U.S. Navy buddies and their wives. We guys were stationed, worked and partied together in Edzell, Scotland, in 1972-1973. Since 2015, we have been rendezvousing on an annual basis somewhere around the country. This year, we are in the Badlands of South Dakota.

 

My surveillance of college football this weekend is going to be on my cell phone. Rapid City isn’t exactly the hot spot of college football. That’s not a knock on Rapid City. It’s a great place. But it is remote from football. Plus, I will be busy with activities and such with my Navy brethren. Thank God for cell phones.

 

Last night, we were all gathered in a local pub for dinner. And who should be on the big screen TV but the Florida Gators volleyball team. The No. 4 Gators were in a match with Texas A&M. In the fifth game of the five-set match, Texas A&M beat Florida on a controversial call.

 

This is not a so-called monumental weekend in college football. However, some of the matchups could provide some pretty exciting football – some real donnybrook games, some real barnburner games. Just think about the gut wrencher possibilities of Notre Dame-Duke, Utah-Oregon State, Florida-Kentucky, Louisville-NC State, LSU-Ole Miss, Clemson-Syracuse, Texas A&M-Arkansas and South Carolina-Tennessee.

 

It won’t be a barnburner game, but “The Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry” is being played this weekend – Georgia-Auburn. Georgia leads the series 62-56-8. The rivalry began in 1892. Now, it is not to be confused with “The South’s Oldest Rivalry,” which is North Carolina-Virginia. They too began playing in 1892. North Carolina and Virginia have met 128 times where Auburn-Georgia have only met 126 times.

 

The Top 5 teams in this week’s AP Poll are: 1. Georgia (4-0), 2. Michigan (4-0), 3. Texas (4-0), 4. Ohio State (4-0), and 5. Florida State (4-0). Georgia got 55 of the 63 first-place votes. Michigan got 1, Texas got 2, Ohio State got 1, Florida State got 3 and Washington (4-0) got 1. Duke (4-0) is 17^th and Florida (3-1) is 22^nd in the AP Poll.  

 

The Top 5 teams in this week’s Coaches Poll are: 1. Georgia (4-0), 2. Michigan (4-0), 3. Ohio State (4-0), 4. Florida State (4-0), and 5. Texas (4-0). Georgia got 61 of the 64 first-place votes. Ohio State got 2 and Washington (4-0) got 1. Duke (4-0) is 16^th and Florida (3-1) is 23^rd in the Coaches Poll.

 

This week, Georgia visits Auburn, and Michigan is at Nebraska. Texas hosts Kansas, while Ohio State and Florida State are off.

 

In the FCS Coaches Poll, the Top 5 teams are: 1. South Dakota State (3-0), 2. North Dakota State (3-0), 3. Montana State (3-1), 4. William & Mary (4-0), and Holy Cross (3-1). South Dakota State got all 26 of the first-place votes. Harvard (2-0) is 24^th in the Poll.

 

Michigan State made it official yesterday. The Spartans fired Mel Tucker. Tucker was fired for cause. He was fired for bringing disrespect, contempt and ridicule upon the program. Tucker had previously been suspended for sexual misconduct. By firing him for cause, Michigan State will not have to pay Tucker the remaining $79 million in his contract. Of course, Tucker will contest this.

 

David McCallum, 90, died on September 25. Famous for his role in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” TV series of the 1960s. Also known for his medical examiner role in “NCIS.” In the movies, he was in “The Great Escape” (1963).  A native of Glasgow, Scotland, David Keith McCallum was 90.

 

“Mr. Oriole” Brooks Robinson died on September 26. Robison was an all-star third baseman who played his entire MLB career with the Baltimore Orioles – 1955-1977. He is generally considered to be the greatest defensive third baseman in major league baseball history. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Brooks Calbert Robinson, was 86.

 

There were some tough picks this week. On two of the picks, I went with my head on one and my heart on the other. You’ll know which ones I’m talking about.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

September 28, 2023

 

Note: CFW Week 5 Results will be posted Monday morning, October 2.

 

 

Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for

This week’s 10 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games….and then some

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. Kansas (4-0) at Texas (4-0) – (Big 12 vs.  Big12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – The last time Kansas and Texas met in Austin – 2021 – the Jayhawks beat the Longhorns in overtime. That won’t happen this time. Not even in overtime. This is a different Texas team. It’s a different Kansas team too, but not that different. Texas is good on offense, but the Horns are better on defense. At least, so far. Quinn Ewers has passed for 1,033 yards in four games. And one of the wins was over Alabama in Tuscaloosa. The Jayhawks will strike Texas with quarterback Jalon Daniels and running back Devin Neal. But that won’t be enough. Bevo enjoys some roast Jayhawk – Texas 30, Kansas 20.

 

RUNNER-UP: 2. Notre Dame (4-1) at Duke (4-0) – (Ind.  vs. ACC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – Don’t be surprised if Duke wins. I don’t think it will happen, but Mike Elko has the Dookies playing excellent defense. And defense can win games. The Irish play good defense too. Not sure how they will react following the last second loss to Ohio State. They better get that out of their system. Sam Hartman has passed for 1,236 yards in five games. The Leprechaun did his homework – Notre Dame 23, Duke 21.

 

REST OF THE BEST: 3. Utah (4-0) at Oregon State (3-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 9 pm ET, Friday, FS1 – The Beavers lost a close one on the road to Washington State – 3 points. Utah won a close one at home against UCLA – 7 points. Time for a reversal. Oregon State wins a close one at home over Utah. It’s unknown if Utah quarterback Cam Rising will play against Oregon State. He has been nursing an injury. The Beavers need for quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei  and running back Damien Martinez to step up. They do – Oregon State 20, Utah 18.

 

4.  Georgia (4-0) at Auburn (3-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBS – This hasn’t been much of a game in recent years. I don’t know if it will be this year or not. It’s called “The Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry” – not to be confused with “The South’s Oldest Rivalry” – North Carolina-Virginia. Georgia has won the last six games and 15 of the last 18 games. The Dawgs lead the series – 63-56-8. Auburn is about as bad on defense as it is on offense. The Tigers can’t pass – 113^th in the country. Meanwhile, Georgia is averaging 41.5 points a game on offense, while holding opponents to 11.2 points a game on defense. Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has passed for 1,184 yards in four games. Aubie loses some fur – Georgia 30, Auburn 14.

 

5. Florida (3-1) at Kentucky (4-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN – These games have been pretty good in recent years. Kentucky finally broke the Florida hex. The Gators used to be heavily favored. Recently, it has been a tossup. Florida is playing good defense. The Gators problem is on offense. They don’t have one. Kentucky is so-so on offense and defense. Better on defense. Kentucky is 4-0, but the Wildcats haven’t played anyone. Florida has played games against Utah and Tennessee. Don’t bet against Albert – Florida 27, Kentucky 21.

 

6. Louisville (4-0) at NC State (3-1) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 7 pm ET, Friday, ESPN – This has the making of a good game. If NC State stays turnover free, the Wolfpack can beat Louisville. But they need to play a near perfect game. Problem is, NC State isn’t very good on offense or defense. Louisville, on the other hand, has a good offense – not so good defense. Cardinals quarterback Jack Plummer has passed for 1,120 yards in four games. The Wolf becomes big and bad – NC State 28, Louisville 27.

 

7. USC (4-0) at Colorado (3-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, FOX – At least Colorado has USC at home. That should be good for a couple of points – not many but a few. The Trojans don’t exactly have the best defense. Shedeur Sanders should be able to pick them apart. Problem is, on the other side Caleb Williams should pick the Buffaloes apart with his passing. This one could get high scoring. Arizona State put 28 points on the board against USC. Another wild one in Boulder. The Trojans are wilder – USC 34, Colorado 20.

 

8. LSU (3-1) at Ole Miss (3-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 8 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN – Jaxson Dart against Jayden Daniels. Ole Miss ran out of steam last week against Alabama. LSU fought to the end against Arkansas. Lane Kiffin is a good coach, but he often gets criticized for not being focused. Ole Miss lost its focus against Alabama. LSU kept their focus against Arkansas. Both teams have a good offense and a weak defense. LSU’s Daniels has passed for 1,297 yards in four games. Little Kiffy pulls a magnolia out of the hat – Ole Miss 31, LSU 27.

 

9. West Virginia (3-1) at TCU (3-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big12) – 8 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN2 – Surprise, surprise, WVU’s defense is actually better than its offense. And the Mountaineers have won three in a row. But don’t count on four in a row. WVU’s luck is about to run out. However, it won’t come easy for TCU. The Frogs will be in a battle. TCU has a pretty good offense and a reasonable defense. On offense, quarterback Chandler Morris has passed for 1,117 yards in four games. The Frogs go hoppin’ in Fort Worth – TCU 27, West Virginia 20.

 

10. Clemson (2-2) at Syracuse (4-0) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ABC – This is really a tough pick. You just know the Orange will be fired up for Clemson. They have given the Tigers some good games in recent years but have always come up short. The Cuse have a good offense and defense. Quarterback Garrett Shrader is their leading rusher and passer. He does it all. If he is on top of his game, Clemson is in trouble. The Tigers are in trouble – Syracuse 28, Clemson 26.

 

Six other interesting and intriguing games to keep an eye on this weekend are Texas A&M (3-1) vs. Arkansas (2-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, SECN…..  South Alabama (2-2) at James Madison (4-0) – (Sun Belt vs. Sun Belt) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPNU…..   and Coastal Carolina (2-2) at Georgia Southern (3-1) – (Sun Belt vs. Sun Belt) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, NFLN.

 

Also, Troy (2-2) at Georgia State (4-0) – (Sun Belt vs, Sun Belt) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+…..  South Carolina (2-2) at Tennessee (3-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, SECN…..  and Washington (4-0) at Arizona (3-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 10:00 pm ET, Saturday, P12N.

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

 

Michigan (4-0) at Nebraska (2-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, FOX – The problem for Nebraska is that Michigan has a great defense. And the Huskers have no offense. The best part of Nebraska’s offense is the running game. The best part if their defense is rushing yards allowed per game – 46.2 yards. The Huskers have found a star in Heinrich Haarberg. He replaced Jeff Sims. Haarberg is getting better, but not better enough to beat the Wolverines. Harbaugh loves corn – Michigan 27, Nebraska 12.

 

Illinois (2-2) at Purdue (1-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, Peacock – Both teams are struggling, especially Purdue. It looks like the Boilers will struggle some more. Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer is making strides. But the Banned Indians’ defense is tragic. And Illinois was so good on defense last year. Purdue quarterback Hudson Card has been up and down. The Boilers defense is pretty tragic too. This game may be a tragedy in four acts – Illinois 21, Purdue 20.

 

 

ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA:

 

Stetson (2-2) at Marist (1-2) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

Baylor (1-3) at UCF (3-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, FS1….

 

South Florida (2-2) at Navy (1-2) – (AAC vs. AAC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBSSN….

 

Florida A&M (3-1) at Mississippi Valley State (0-3) – (SWAC vs. SWAC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday….

West Florida (3-1) at North Greenville (2-2) – (Gulf South vs. Gulf South) – 7 pm ET, Saturday….

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“If anybody can’t see what he has done for college football and how he’s bringing excitement to college football, you’re crazy,” Oregon coach Dan Lanning, on Colorado coach Deion Sanders.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

CFW Week 4 Results - Clemson, FSU, UNC Out of the ACC?

 CFW Week 4 Results – Clemson, FSU, UNC out of the ACC?

Prime time became past time in Eugene

 

And relegation may not be so far-fetched after all. More later.

 

The dictionary defines prime as the most active, thriving or satisfying stage or period. Although Colorado may still be active, I think we can safely say, after Saturday’s game, the Buffaloes are no longer thriving or satisfying. Their luster has faded. Colorado is no longer shining, glittering or sparkling. Oregon made sure of that.

 

Oregon squashed Colorado, 42-6. The Ducks led 35-0 at halftime and 42-0 midway through the 3^rd quarter. Colorado’s lone score came with 2:51 left in the game.

 

It was fun while it lasted. Everyone got caught up in the Colorado and Coach Prime hype. But reality has set in. Except for the passing of quarterback Shedeur Sanders, Colorado isn’t a very good team. The offensive line is weak. The Buffaloes have no running game – 131^st in the country out of 133 teams. Colorado’s defense is bad, giving up 33.2 points a game. The Buffs are 129^th in the country in total yards allowed per game.

 

On the horizon for Colorado are USC, UCLA, Oregon State, Washington State and Utah, among others. Before the season began, most analysts seemed to project a 5-7 season for the Buffaloes. It’s looking like they are going to be right.

 

Colorado-Oregon didn’t measure up to being a monumental game, but Florida State-Clemson, UCLA-Utah, Oregon State-Washington State sure did. And Ohio State-Notre Dame really did. All four of those games were decided by 7 points or less. Florida State-Clemson went into overtime. Ohio State-Notre Dame was decided with 0:01 on the clock.

 

Florida State beat Clemson, 31-24 (OT). Utah beat UCLA, 14-7. Washington State downed Oregon State, 38-35. Ohio State squeaked by Notre Dame, 17-14.  

 

Along with Colorado-Oregon, the Iowa-Penn State game was a dud. The Nittany Lions beat the Hawkeyes, 31-0. Ole Miss-Alabama was fun and exciting for three quarters. But it lacked excitement in the 4^th quarter, as Alabama beat Ole Miss, 24-10.

 

College football Week 4 began Thursday night in Conway, South Carolina. Georgia State improved to 4-0, beating Coastal Carolina, 30-17. Georgia State running back Marcus Carroll rushed for 150 yards and one touchdown.

 

Friday night was a busy night in college football with four games – one on the East Coast, one in the Midwest and two on the West Coast. Virginia is for dumbers. With the score tied 21-21, and 0:03 on the clock, NC State attempted a 48-yard field goal to win the game. The kick was no good. But Virginia committed a personal foul. Who commits a personal foul defending a field goal attempt? Virginia does. So the ball was advanced 15 yards and NC State attempted a 33-yard field goal. Chip shot! The kick was good and the Wolfpack beat the Cavaliers, 24-21.

 

In the Midwest game, Luke Fickell got his first Big Ten win, coaching Wisconsin. The Badgers downed Purdue, 38-17. The Boilers had three turnovers.

 

The two West Coast games Friday night saw Boise State outlast San Diego State, 34-31, and Air Force blast past San Jose State, 45-20. Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty rushed for 205 yards and two touchdowns. Wonder if he is related to the family who owns Bistro Jeanty in Yountville, California? In June 2000, Swamp Mama and I had a great dinner there with Dave and Sue Brolhorst. But I digress. In the other game, two Air Force running backs rushed for more than 100, as the Falcons racked up 400 total yards in rushing. Air force is 4-0.

 

Coming into the game against Michigan on Saturday, Rutgers was undefeated. With Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh on the sideline for the first time this season, the Wolverines beat the Scarlet Knights, 31-7.

 

Syracuse is still undefeated and so are Marshall and James Madison. Syracuse downed Army, 29-16, Marshall beat Virginia Tech, 24-17, and James Madison took care of Utah State, 45-38.

 

Louisville, Kansas, Liberty, Fresno State, Missouri and Kentucky are also undefeated.

 

Wake Forest isn’t the team it has been the past few years. Georgia Tech beat the Demon Deacons, 30-16. The Deacons miss Sam Hartman.

 

There were a couple of strange games, both involving Big Ten teams. It took four overtimes for Indiana to subdue Akron, 29-27 (4OT). At the end of regulation, the score was 17-17. Both teams scored a touchdown in the 1^st overtime, 24-24. Both kicked a field goal in the 2^nd overtime, 27-27. There was no scoring in the 3^rd overtime. In the 4^th overtime, Indiana converted and Akron didn’t – 29-27.

 

In the other strange game, heavily favored Minnesota led Northwestern, 31-10, early in the fourth quarter. In the final 12 minutes of the game, Northwestern scored three touchdowns. The third of the three touchdowns came with 0:02 on the clock. So, at the end of regulation, the score was 31-31. In the 1^st overtime, Minnesota kicked a field goal and Northwestern scored a touchdown. Final score: Northwestern 37, Minnesota 34 (OT).

 

In the late, late shows Saturday night, Washington smacked California, 59-32. Michael Penix passed for 304 yards and four touchdowns. The teams combined for 1,031 total yards. In the other late, late show, USC downed Arizona State, 42-28. Caleb Williams passed for 322 yards and three touchdowns.

 

There were 11 interesting and intriguing games I said to keep an eye on. First (Georgia State-Coastal Carolina): Georgia State is for real, beating Coastal Carolina, 30-17…..  Second (Boise State-San Diego State): San Diego State had two turnovers, losing to Boise State, 34-31…..  Third (Rutgers-Michigan): Michigan spotted Rutgers 7 points, then the Wolverines scored 31 unanswered points. Michigan downed Rutgers, 31-7…..  Fourth (SMU-TCU): TCU’s Chandler Harris passed for 261 yards and three touchdowns, as the Frogs beat SMU, 34-17.

 

Fifth (Western Kentucky-Troy): Troy’s Gunnar Watson passed for 349 yards and one touchdown, as Troy edged Western Kentucky, 27-24….  Sixth (Maryland-Michigan State): Maryland improved to 4-0, beating Michigan State, 31-9…..  Seventh (UTSA-Tennessee): Tennessee racked up 512 total yards, as the Vols polished off UTSA, 45-14.

 

Eighth (Liberty-FIU): Liberty had three turnovers but still beat FIU, 38-6….  Ninth (Arkansas-LSU): LSU kicked a 20-yard field goal with 0:05 on the clock to beat Arkansas, 34-31…..  Tenth (Appalachian State-Wyoming): Trailing Appalachian State 19-7, Wyoming scored two touchdowns in the final 12 minutes of the 4^th quarter to beat App State, 22-19…..  Eleventh (Mississippi State-South Carolina): Tied 27-27, South Carolina outscored Mississippi State 10-3 in the 4^th quarter to beat the Bulldogs, 37-30.

 

Two interesting stories broke last week, both of considerable significance. First, reports leaked from various ACC sources, saying that Clemson, Florida State and North Carolina only have two years left in the ACC – this season and next season. According to reports, the three schools have found a way to remove themselves from the ACC without suffering much, if any, financial harm. This departure from the ACC would take place on June 30, 2025. Furthermore, the reports said that two of the three schools would move to Big Ten Conference with the other going to the SEC. Conversely, some of the reports had two of the three schools going to the SEC with the other going to the Big Ten. One report even had one or two of the schools going to the Big 12. Stay tuned! But you will have to stay tuned for a while.

 

A few weeks ago, I wrote, suggesting that college football should move to relegation, with conferences based on performance. I also suggested this format a few years ago. Well, guess what? Relegation may not be so far-fetched after all. That’s exactly what Oregon State and Washington State are discussing with the Mountain West Conference.

 

Under the scheme that surfaced last week, the Pac-12 would continue to exist, although as the Pac-8. The MWC would drop from 12 schools down to 8 members. The Pac-8 would keep its Power Five status. The MWC would remain a Group of Five conference. Oregon State and Washington State would join with the 12 MWC schools – 14 schools. They would bring in two new schools to the fold, e.g. UTSA, Rice, North Texas, Tulsa, etc. That would give them a total of 16 schools. From those 16 schools, they would create an 8-team Pac-12 conference and an 8-team MWC. At the end of each season, the two or three schools finishing at the bottom of the Pac-8 in football would be relegated down to the MWC for the following season. Conversely, the two or three schools that finish at the top of the MWC would move up to the Pac-8 for the following season. Stay tuned!

 

“There’s a ship lies rigged and ready in the harbor. Tomorrow for old England she sails….” Singer, songwriter and musician Roger Whittaker died on September 13. Whitaker’s biggest hit was “The Last Farewell.” It peaked at No. 19 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. The song spent 15 weeks on the chart in the spring and summer of 1975. His other hits were “Durham Town (The Leavin’),” “I Don’t Believe In If Anymore” and “New World In The Morning.” Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Roger Henry Brough Whittaker was 87. “….For you are beautiful. I have loved you dearly. More dearly than the spoken word can tell.”

 

Touchdown Tom

September 25, 2023

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

 

Weekend Recap

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: Where was Touchdown Jesus? – Ohio State 17, Notre Dame 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Ohio State 28, Notre Dame 23). Obviously, he wasn’t in South Bend. With the score Ohio State 3, Notre Dame 0 at halftime, this was a real knock-down, drag-out defensive battle. It opened up a little bit in the second half. Of the 31 points scored in the game, 28 were scored in the second half. Ohio State held a 10-0 lead late in the thirds quarter. Then Notre Dame scored 14 unanswered points. The second of the two touchdowns came with 8:22 to go in the game. The Irish led 14-10. With 0:01 on the clock, the Buckeyes scored a touchdown on a 1-yard smash up the middle. The game was evenly matched in first downs and total yards. Notre Dame was the better rushing team. Ohio State was the better passing team. There were no turnovers. Notre Dame dominated ball control 34:59 to 25:01. Attendance in South Bend: 77,622

 

RUNNER-UP: The Ducks were prime – Oregon 42, Colorado 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 34, Colorado 26). This one was over before it started. Oregon had 30 first downs to 13 for Colorado. The Ducks had 522 total yards to 199 for the Buffaloes. Colorado had 40 yards rushing. Oregon had the only turnover in the game. Bo Nix threw his first interception of the season. Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders had his lowest passing output of the season – 159 yards passing. Attendance in Eugene: 59,889

 

REST OF THE BEST: Hawkeyes’ offense was a no show – Penn State 31, Iowa 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Penn State 24, Iowa 17). Granted, Penn State has one of the best all-around defenses in the country, but Iowa’s offense is a joke. The Hawkeyes had 4 first downs and 76 total yards – 20 rushing and 56 passing. Penn State had 31 first downs and 397 total yards. The Nitts dominated ball control 45:27 to 14:33. Iowa had four turnovers – all fumbles. Attendance in University Park: 110,830

 

Was this the Pac-12? – Utah 14, UCLA 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Utah 28, UCLA 24). This wasn’t like a Pac-12 game at all. It was more like a typical SEC or Big Ten defensive battle. Both of Utah’s touchdowns came in the first half – one in the first quarter and one in the second. UCLA scored its lone touchdown with 3:39 to go in the game. The Bruins had -9 yards rushing. Combined, the teams had 474 total yards. Utah plays good defense and is lousy on offense. Attendance in Salt Lake City: 52,919

 

This was more like the Pac-12 – Washington State 38, Oregon State 35 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon State 33, Washington State 30). Where Utah and UCLA combined for 21 points, Oregon State and Washington State combined for 73 points. The Cougars dominated the early part of the game, leading 35-14 as the 4^th quarter began. The Beavers scored 21 points in the final quarter. The teams combined for 968 total yards. Washington State quarterback Cameron Ward was sensational. He was 28-34-0, passing for 404 yards and four touchdowns. Attendance in Pullman: 33,111

 

Jayhawks snare the Cougars – Kansas 38, BYU 27 (Touchdown Tom said: BYU 34, Kansas 27). Looks like Kansas is for real. The Jayhawks led 14-7 at the end of the 1^st quarter. BYU led 17-14 at halftime. Kansas led 28-20 as the 4^th quarter began. The teams were pretty even in first downs and total yards. BYU had 9 yards rushing, but 357 yards passing. The Cougars suffered three turnovers – one fumble and two interceptions. The Jayhawks’ Devin Neal rushed for 91 yards. Attendance in Lawrence: 47,233

 

It's been a while – Florida State 31, Clemson 24 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Florida State 27, Clemson 23). Florida State had not beat Clemson since 2014. Clemson led 17-14 at the half. The score was tied 24-24 as the fourth quarter began. There was no scoring in the fourth quarter. Clemson dominated the stats, but not the score. Both quarterbacks had good games. Jordan Travis passed for 289 yards, and Cade Klubnik passed for 283 yards. Neither threw an interception. Attendance in Clemson: 81,500

 

The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated – Alabama 24, Ole Miss 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Ole Miss 30, Alabama 28). Nick Saban is alive and well in Tuscaloosa. So is the Crimson Tide football team. Ole Miss led at halftime, 7-6. Bama led 17-10 as the 4^th quarter began. The stats were pretty even, except for the running game. Alabama had 148 yards rushing, Ole Miss had 56. Bama running back Jase McClellan had a good game – 105 yards rushing. The two quarterbacks threw one interception each. Attendance in Tuscaloosa: 100,077

 

Welcome to the Big 12, UCF – Kansas State 44, UCF 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Kansas State 27, UCF 26). This was a wild game until the 4^th quarter when Kansas State pulled away. At the end of one, UCF led 10-7. Kansas State led at the break, 21-17. UCF led 24-21 early in the 3^rd quarter. Then K-State scored 23 unanswered points. The teams combined for 945 total yards. The Wildcats were the better rushing team. K-State running back D.J. Giddens rushed for 207 yards. Attendance in Manhattan: 51,912

 

War Eagle was a Dodo bird – Texas A&M 27, Auburn 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 24, Auburn 13). This was a real defensive struggle in the first half. No touchdowns were scored. Texas A&M led 6-3 at the break. The Aggies opened it up in the 3^rd quarter and led 20-3 as the 4^th quarter began. Auburn scored to close the gap to 20-10. The Aggies put it away, scoring a touchdown with 3:39 to go in the game. Auburn only had 200 total yards – only 56 yards passing. Attendance in College Station: 102,530

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPIMG GROUNDS:

 

A sloppy win – West Virginia 20, Texas Tech 13 (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 27, Texas Tech 25). Tech’s only lead in the game was 3-0 during the first quarter. Before the quarter was over, WVU went up 7-3 and never trailed again. The Mounties were up 13-3 at halftime. Tech closed the gap to 13-10 early in the 4^th quarter. WVU only had 99 yards passing. The Mounties threw two interceptions. WVU dominated ball control 34:50 to 25:10. Tech running back Tahj Brooks rushed for 149 yards. The game was played in the rain. Attendance in Morgantown: 50,071

 

Couldn’t get across the goal line – Florida 22, Charlotte 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 49, Charlotte 10). Strange game for the Gators. Florida only scored one touchdown in the game, and it came midway through the first quarter. From then on, the Gators kicked five field goals. Florida defense held Charlotte to 210 total yards – 77 yards rushing. Florida quarterback Graham Mertz was 20-23-0, passing for 259 yards and one touchdown. After beating Tennessee and with Kentucky coming up, the Gators were laying low. Attendance in Gainesville: 89,053

 

Herbie will take it – Nebraska 28, Louisiana Tech 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 42, Louisiana Tech 9). The score was 7-7 at halftime. Nebraska only led 14-7 at the end of three. Huskers quarterback Heinrich Haarberg rushed for 157 yards and one touchdown. Louisiana Tech only had 46 yards rushing. Attendance in Lincoln: 87,115

 

Taking care of business – Duke 41, Connecticut 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Duke 35, Connecticut 10). It was pretty routine for the Dookies. Entering the 4^th quarter, Duke led 41-0. UConn only had 203 total yards. Duke quarterback Riley Leonard was 23-34-0, passing for 248 yards and one touchdown. Attendance in East Hartford: 29,033

 

Give that Dawg a biscuit – Georgia 49, UAB 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 52, UAB 14). Georgia had 582 total yards. Quarterback Carson Beck was 22-32-0, passing for 338 yards and three touchdowns. The Dawgs had three turnovers in the game – two fumbles and one interception. The teams combined for 918 total yards. Georgia led 28-14 at halftime. The Dawgs scored 21 unanswered points in the second half to take a 49-14 lead. Attendance in Athens: 92,746

 

The mighty Quinn – Texas 38, Baylor 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas 33, Baylor 14). Texas led 28-6 at halftime. Baylor was scoreless in the second half. The Longhorns had 503 total yards. Quinn Ewers had a great game. The Longhorn quarterback was 18-23-0, passing for 293 yards and one touchdown. Baylor only had 60 yards rushing. Texas running back Jonathon Brooks rushed for 106 yards and two touchdowns. Attendance in Waco: 49,165

 

Bucky Badgered the Boilers – Wisconsin 38, Purdue 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 28, Purdue 23). As the fourth quarter began, Wisconsin led 27-17. Then the Badgers scored two unanswered touchdowns in the final quarter. Purdue never led in the game. The teams were very even on the stats – first downs, total yards, passing yards and rushing yards. But Purdue had three turnovers. Wisconsin improved to 3-1. Attendance in West Lafayette: 55,529

 

Week 4 Results:  14 winners, 3 fumbles (82.4 percent)

For the Season:  47 winners, 14 fumbles (77 percent)

 

 

ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA:

 

Butler 28, Stetson 18 – Attendance in Deland: 1,128

Miami 41, Temple 7 – Attendance in Philadelphia: 17,234

Illinois 23, Florida Atlantic 17 – Attendance in Champaign: 53,512

 

South Florida 42, Rice 29 – Attendance in Tampa: 29,141

Liberty 38, FIU 6 – Attendance in Miami: 17,437

 

Florida A&M 23, Alabama State 10 – Attendance in Tallahassee: 18,858

Jackson State 22, Bethune-Cookman 16 – Attendance in Jackson: N/A

West Florida 49, West Georgia 21 – Attendance in Pensacola: 5,046

 

 

Superlatives

 

Impressive Passers:

 

Mississippi State’s Will Rogers – 30-48-1-487 (1TD); South Florida’s Byrum Brown – 22-29-0-435 (2TDs); Rice’s J.T. Daniels – 27-40-0-432 (3TDs); Washington State’s Cameron Ward – 28-34-0-404 (4TDs); Northwestern’s Ben Bryant – 33-49-0-396 (4TDs); Louisville’s Jack Plummer – 18-21-0-388 (5TDs), and Troy’s Gunnar Watson – 22-35-0-349 (1TD).

 

Also, Iowa State’s Rocco Becht – 27-38-0-348 (3TDs); Georgia Southern’s Davis Brin – 34-46-0-344 (4TDs); Georgia’s Carson Beck – 22-32-0-337 (3TDs); Missouri’s Brady Cook – 18-25-0-321 (2TDs); Oklahoma’s Dillon Gabriel – 26-38-0-322 (1TD); LSU’s Jayden Daniels – 20-29-1-320 (4TDs), and Colorado State’s Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi – 29-42-1-306 (2TDs).

 

Also, Illinois’ Luke Altmyer – 25-36-0-303 (1TD); North Carolina’s Drake Maye – 22-30-0-296 (1TD); Houston’s Donovan Smith – 31-40-0-294 (1TD); Texas’ Quinn Ewers – 18-23-0-293 (1TD); Florida State’s Jordan Travis – 21-37-0-289 (2TDs); South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler – 18-20-0-288 (3TDs); Clemson’s Cade Klubnik – 25-38-0-283 (1TD), and Oregon’s Bo Nix – 28-33-1-276 (3TDs).

 

Also, Middle Tennessee’s Nicholas Vattiato – 30-41-0-274 (3TDs); Western Kentucky’s Austin Reed – 23-39-0-268 (2TDs); TCU’s Chandler Morris – 23-32-0-261 (3TDs); Florida’s Graham Mertz – 20-23-0-259 (1TD); South Alabama’s Carter Bradley – 17-27-0-254 (2TDs); Duke’s Riley Leonard – 23-34-0-248 (1TD), and Ohio’s Kevin Rourke – 14-16-0-196 (5TDs).

 

Impressive Rushers:

 

Texas State’s Ismail Mahdi – 216 yards (2TDs); Toledo’s Penny Boone – 211 yards (2TDs); Kansas State’s D.J. Giddens – 207 yards (4TDs); Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty – 205 yards (2TDs); Minnesota’s Darius Taylor – 198 yards, and Western Michigan’s Jalen Buckley – 190 yards (2TDs).

 

Also, Marshall’s Rasheen Ali – 174 yards (2TDs); Nebraska’s Heinrich Haarberg – 157 yards (1TD); Troy’s Kimani Vidal – 156 yards (2TDs); Wyoming’s Harrison Waylee – 156 yards (1TD); USC’s MarShawn Lloyd – 154 yards: Georgia State’s Marcus Carroll – 150 yards (1TD), and Texas Tech’s Tahj Brooks – 149 yards.

 

Also, Air Force’s Emmanuel Michel – 148 yards (3TDs); Akron’s D.J. Irons – 142 yards (2TDs); Tennessee’s Dylan Sampson – 139 yards (2TDs); Wake Forest’s Justice Ellison – 137 yards; Nebraska’s Anthony Grant – 135 yards (1TD), and Louisville’s Jamar Jordan – 134 yards (2TDs).

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“The Cinderella story is over, men. They’re fighting for clicks. We’re fighting for wins,” Oregon coach Dan Lanning to his team after the win over Colorado.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

 

P.S.

 

Not exactly college football related, but near the end of September, as the college football season was about to move into its second month, the number one song in the country…

 

…80 years ago, this week in 1943, was “Sunday, Monday Or Always” by Bing Crosby and The Ken Darby Singers

 

…75 years ago, this week in 1948, was “Twelfth Street Rag” by Pee Wee Hunt and His Orchestra

 

…70 years ago, this week in 1953, was “Vaya Con Dios (May God Be With You)” by Les Paul and Mary Ford, and “You, You, You” by The Ames Brothers

 

…65 years ago, this week in 1958, was “Volare (Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu)” by Domenico Modugno, and “It’s All In The Game” by Tommy Edwards

 

…60 years ago, this week in 1963, was “Blue Velvet” by Bobby Vinton

 

…55 years ago, this week in 1968, was “Harper Valley PTA” by Jeannie C. Riley, and “Hey Jude” by The Beatles

 

…50 years ago, this week in 1973, was “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye, and “We’re An American Band” by Grand Funk

 

…45 years ago, this week in 1978, was “Boogie Oogie Oogie” by A Taste Of Honey, and “Kiss You All Over” by Exile

 

…40 years ago, this week in 1983, was “Tell Her About It” by Billy Joel, and “Total Eclipse Of The Heart” by Bonnie Tyler

 

…35 years ago, this week in 1988, was “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin

 

…30 years ago, this week in 1993, was “Dreamlover” by Mariah Carey

 

CFW Week 4 Forecast - Monumental Weekend

 CFW Week 4 Forecast – Monumental Weekend

Pac-12 going out with a bang

 

This is stacked up to be a monumental weekend in college football. There are several enormous games. And, in case you haven’t noticed, the Pac-12 Conference, in its final season of existence, is going out with a bang.

 

First the weekend. There are no less than seven games this weekend matching undefeated teams. Five of the seven games pit teams ranked in the Top 25. The marquee of the bunch is No. 6 Ohio State against No. 9 Notre Dame in South Bend. Wow, what a contest the Buckeyes and Irish should be!

 

Not far behind, but every bit as exciting is No. 19 Colorado at No. 10 Oregon – Shedeur Sanders versus Bo Nix. You just know Neon Deion will have his players primed. And how about No. 7 Penn State hosting No. 24 Iowa? I see a defensive battle looming in State College.

 

Two more Pac-12 games round out the undefeated Top 25 battles. In Salt Lake City, No. 22 UCLA takes on No. 11 Utah. If that is not enough to keep you fired up, No. 14 Oregon State tangles with No. 21 Washington State in Pullman. D.J. Uiagalelei versus Cameron Ward should provide lots of offensive fireworks.

 

The final two games matching undefeated teams are No. 2 Michigan hosting unranked, but unbeaten, Rutgers. Are the Scarlet Knights for real? We’re about to find out. Also, No. 35 BYU at No. 31 Kansas. The winner will surely jump into the Top 25.

 

Those are the games matching undefeated teams. But we’re not finished with the excitement. Not yet at least. There are four monumental games pitting an undefeated team against a one-loss team. Two of these games contain Top 25 teams. No. 15 and undefeated Ole Miss takes on No. 13 and one-loss Alabama in Tuscaloosa. If that doesn’t stir your grits, No. 4 and undefeated Florida State battles No. 23 and one-loss Clemson in Death Valley.

 

Closing out the weekend’s top games are No. 34 and undefeated Auburn at No. 35 and one-loss Texas A&M, and No. 39 and undefeated UCF at No. 27 and one-loss Kansas State. Enjoy the fun!

 

Meanwhile, the Pac-12 Conference has been banging its drum. Three weekends into the season, the Pac-12 has blasted to the forefront of the Power Five. No less than eight Pac-12 teams – the most of any conference – are ranked in the Top 25. The eight teams are USC (#5), Washington (#8), Oregon (#10), Utah (#11), Oregon State (#14), Colorado (#19), Washington State (#21) and UCLA (#22). Three teams in the Top 10 and six in the Top 20. All eight of those teams are currently undefeated.

 

No team in the country has created more excitement than Colorado. Along with Coach Prime, the Buffaloes have dominated the scene, capturing the country’s conversation and attention.

 

The top two quarterbacks in the country in passing yards are Washington’s Michael Penix, Jr. (1,332 yards) and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders (1,251 yards). Three other Pac-12 quarterbacks are in the Top 20 in passing yards – Washington State’s Cameron Ward, Oregon’s Bo Nix and USC’s Caleb Williams. All five of those quarterbacks have completed better than 72% of their passes. All five are Heisman Trophy candidates.

 

In most season’s, the Pac-12 has been considered the weakest of the Power Five conferences. Not this year. This year, the Pac-12 is considered to be the strongest overall – the best. And it is all coming in the Pac-12’s final season of competition. Next year, the Pac-12 will be no more. At least, not as we currently know it. Ten of the teams will be competing in other conferences. The Pac-12 may be dying, but it’s going out with a bang. The Conference of Champions!

 

The outcome of two SEC games this week will be interesting. That’s because the season will be a disappointment and all but over for the losers of Arkansas at LSU and Mississippi State at South Carolina. Likewise for the loser of Boise State at San Diego State.

 

How will Tennessee respond to its loss at Florida? The Vols host UTSA. The Roadrunners can be feisty.

 

Maryland puts its undefeated record on the line at Michigan State.

 

Two longtime Texas rivals hook up this week in what’s generally a fun and exciting game. SMU meets TCU in Fort Worth.

 

Undefeated Georgia State has a tough assignment at Coastal Carolina, as does undefeated Liberty at FIU. Western Kentucky at Troy and Appalachian State at Wyoming have the potential to be wild and exciting contests. Fasten your seatbelt.

 

The Top 5 teams in this week’s AP Poll are: 1. Georgia (3-0), 2. Michigan (3-0), 3. Texas (3-0), 4. Florida State (3-0), and 5. USC (3-0). Georgia got 57 of the 63 first-place votes. Michigan got 2, Texas got 3 and Florida State got 1. Duke (3-0) is 18^th, Colorado (3-0) is 19^th and Florida (2-1) is 25^th in the AP Poll.

 

The Top 5 teams in this week’s Coaches Poll are: 1. Georgia (3-0), 2. Michigan (3-0), 3. Florida State (3-0), 4. Ohio State (3-0), and 5. USC (3-0). Georgia got 62 of the 64 first-place votes. Michigan got 1 and Ohio State got 1. Duke (3-0) is 18^th and Colorado (3-0) is 19^th in the Coaches Poll. Florida is not ranked.

 

This week, Georgia hosts UAB and Michigan entertains Rutgers. Florida State visits Clemson and Texas travels to Baylor. USC plays at Arizona State, while Ohio State is on the road at Notre Dame.

 

In the FCS Coaches Poll, the Top 5 teams are 1. South Dakota State (3-0), 2. North Dakota State (3-0), 3. Montana State (2-1), 4. Sacramento State (3-0), and 5. William & Mary (3-0). South Dakota State received all 25 of the first-place votes. Harvard (1-0) is 25^th in the Poll.

 

He was the head coach of Maine (1985-1986), Dartmouth (1987-1991), Tulane (1992-1996), Stanford (2092-2004) and Dartmouth a second time (2005-2023). Buddy Teevens died on September 19. Teevens, who played quarterback for Dartmouth (1975-1978), was also a running backs and quarterbacks coach at Florida (1999-2000). Then he was the offensive coordinator at Florida in 2001. He coached Dartmouth to five Ivy League titles. While riding a bicycle in St. Augustine, Florida, in March 2023, Teevens was hit by a car. His spinal cord was injured, and he lost his right leg. A native of Pembroke, Massachusetts, Eugene Francis “Buddy” Teevens was 66.

 

West Virginia is the best state in the country in men’s college soccer. In the latest rankings, Marshall (7-0-0) is No. 1, and West Virginia (6-0-1) is No. 2. The two teams meet on October 18.

 

Enjoy the monumental Saturday!

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

September 21, 2023

 

Note: CFW Week 4 Results will be posted Monday morning, September 25.

 

 

Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for

Week Four’s 10 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games….and then some

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. Ohio State (3-0) at Notre Dame (4-0) – (Big Ten vs. Ind.) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, NBC – Notre Dame has the better quarterback in Sam Hartman and may have the better running back in Audric Estime. Both have looked good in four games – granted the competition hasn’t been the toughest. NC State was Notre Dame’s best opponent and the Irish beat the Wolfpack by three touchdowns. Ohio State has the better receivers and overall – the best team. The Buckeyes haven’t been tested either. Their best opponent was Indiana. Ohio State beat the Hoosiers by three touchdowns. The Buckeyes have limited opponents to just 6.7 points a game. Hartman and Estime will definitely test the Ohio State defense. But the Buckeyes will have an easier time scoring. The Irish defense has its weak spots. And Brutus exploits them – Ohio State 28, Notre Dame 23.

 

RUNNER-UP: 2. Colorado (3-0) at Oregon (3-0) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – The excitement may be over for Coach Prime and his Buffaloes. Oregon is heavily favored. But then again, TCU was heavily favored too. We saw what Colorado did to the Frogs. Oregon and Colorado have both played good offense. Although, Colorado is bad in rushing offense. Only averaging 61 yards a game – 129^th in the country. Both quarterbacks – Bo Nix and Shedeur Sanders – are listed as Heisman Trophy contenders. Only Oregon has played good defense. Colorado definitely has a problem on defense. The Buffaloes will be without the services of Travis Hunter. The receiver/defensive back is out with an injury. Puddles splashes Coach Prime – Oregon 34, Colorado 26.

 

RESRT OF THE BEST: 3. Iowa (3-0) at Penn State (3-0) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBS – This game could boil down to being a big defensive battle. Both teams play good defense. Penn State does have the better offense of the two. So, if any offensive breakthroughs come, they will come in favor of the Nitts. Iowa is playing better offense than the Hawkeyes did last year, but that is not saying much. Cade McNamara’s quarterbacking has been a bit of a disappointment so far. Drew Allar is off to a good start quarterbacking the Nitts. Overall, Penn State is the better team. The Hawkeyes are corny – Penn State 24, Iowa 17.

 

4. UCLA (3-0) at Utah (3-0) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, FOX – UCLA has been somewhat of a surprise. The Bruins are playing good football – offense and defense. Dante Moore has been a surprisingly good quarterback for the Bruins. Utah has been winning games without star quarterback Cam Rising. Rising is still recovering from a knee injury. It is unclear when he will return to the team. Defense has been winning the games for the Utes. They are stable on offense, but defense has been their strong point. Bruins get caught hibernating – Utah 28, UCLA 24.

 

5. Oregon State (3-0) at Washington State (3-0) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, FOX – What a game this should be – offense, offense, offense. And should we call it the Pac-12 Bowl? The game matches the two remaining members of the Pac-12 Conference. Washington State is led by quarterback Cameron Ward. He has already passed for 990 yards this season. The Cougars don’t have much of a running game. And they don’t have a defense. But they sure can score through the air. On the other side, Oregon State has been playing good offense and defense. On offense, the Beavers are led by quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei and running back Damien Martinez. Oregon State was supposed to be good. Washington State is a surprise. But it’s the Cougars who get surprised – Oregon State 33, Washington State 30.

 

6. BYU (3-0) at Kansas (3-0) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN – BYU is off to a good start, led by former USC and Pitt quarterback Kedon Slovis. The Cougars won a big game on the road at Arkansas last week. They are not all that good on offense and defense, but they aren’t bad either. Kansas is doing well with quarterback Jalen Daniels and running back Devin Neal. The Jayhawks are similar to BYU. They are not great on offense and defense, but they aren’t bad either. Looks like a wild game in Lawrence. Cougars send the Jayhawks on a jaywalk – BYU 34, Kansas 27.

 

7. Florida State (3-0) at Clemson (2-1) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ABC – The Tigers have owned the Noles. FSU last beat Clemson in 2014. The Tigers have won seven-straight. At one time – 1992 to 2002 – Florida State won 11-straight games. FSU leads the series 20-15. This appears to be the year of the Noles. Jordan Travis has been a genius at quarterback. But FSU is suspect on defense. After the opening loss to Duke, Clemson has looked sharp. But the Tigers haven’t played anyone. The pressure will be on quarterback Cade Klubnik. He could be the difference – good or bad. It’s bad for the Tigers – Florida State 27, Clemson 23.

 

8. Ole Miss (3-0) at Alabama (2-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBS – Next to Colorado, Alabama is the most talked about team in the country. And not for the same reasons Colorado is being talked about. Just the opposite. The Tide lost at home to Texas. The Tide is not ranked in the Top 10. The Tide is playing musical quarterbacks. The Tide is just average on offense and defense. Bama fans are questioning Nick Saban. What’s up? Well, Ole Miss is up. The Magnolias are undefeated. They have a good offense. Not so sure about their defense. As quarterback Jaxson Dart goes, so goes Ole Miss. Dart is the Magnolias leading rusher and passer. Someone said that Lane Kiffin knows more about what’s going on in Tuscaloosa than Nick Saban does. People will still be talking about Alabama after this game. For all the wrong reasons – Ole Miss 30, Alabama 28.

 

9. UCF (3-0) at Kansas State (2-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 8 pm ET, Saturday, FS1 – This is UCF’s debut Big 12 Conference game. It comes against a good team – Kansas State – and on the road. The Knights have one of the best offenses in the country. They are also playing good defense. Quarterback John Rhys Plumlee may still be out due to his undisclosed injury. K-State stumbled last week. The Wildcats lost to Missouri on a 61-yard field goal as time expired. K-State quarterback Will Howard has had a great season. But now he is injured and may not play. This could be a cliffhanger. The Wildcats have nine lives – Kansas State 27, UCF 26.

 

10. Auburn (3-0) at Texas A&M (2-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN – Auburn is 3-0. But Auburn is an unknown. After this game, Auburn will no longer be an unknown. Texas A&M will tell us what the Tigers have and what they don’t have. Not that A&M is that good, but the Aggies will be a good barometer. A&M quarterback Conner Weigman has had a good season – 909 yards passing. One thing for sure, if Texas A&M loses, it will be curtains for Jimbo Fisher. He can’t survive a second loss this early in the season. Jimbo lives for another day – Texas A&M 24, Auburn 13.

 

Eleven other interesting and intriguing games to keep an eye on this weekend are: Georgia State (3-0) at Coastal Carolina (2-1) – (Sun Belt vs. Sun Belt) – 7:30 pm ET, Thursday, ESPN…..  Boise State (1-2) at San Diego State (2-2) – (MWC vs. MWC) – 10:30 pm ET, Friday, CBSSN…..  Rutgers (3-0) at Michigan (3-0) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, BTN…..  and SMU (2-1) at TCU (2-1) – (AAC vs. Big 12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, FS1.

 

Also, Western Kentucky (2-1) at Troy (1-2) – (C-USA vs. Sun Belt) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPNU…..  Maryland (3-0) at Michigan State (2-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, NBC…..  and UTSA (1-2) at Tennessee (2-1) – (AAC vs. SEC) – 4 pm ET, Saturday, SECN.

 

Also, Liberty (3-0) at FIU (3-1) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – 6:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+…..  Arkansas (2-1) at LSU (2-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN…..  Appalachian State (2-1) at Wyoming (2-1) – (Sun Belt vs. MWC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, CBSSN…..  and Mississippi State (2-1) at South Carolina (1-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, SECN.

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

 

Texas Tech (1-2) at West Virginia (2-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+ – WVU got through Pennsylvania (Penn State, Duquesne and Pitt) with a 2-1 record. Now, it’s the first of three-straight games against Texas teams – Texas Tech, TCU and Houston. How ironic. If the Mounties can go 2-1 against the Texas teams, they will be 4-2 halfway through the season. Not Bad. But first things first – Texas Tech. WVU is plain average on offense and defense. Nothing stands out. Texas Tech is off to a bad start – 1-2. The Red Raiders offense is better than their defense. It could be a nail biter in Morgantown. Mounties wreck Tech – West Virginia 27, Texas Tech 25.

 

Charlotte (1-2) at Florida (2-1) – (AAC vs. SEC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+ After the big win over Tennessee last week, the Gators deserve a break. They will get more than a break this week. Charlotte is pretty bad. Yes, appropriate to the name, Charlotte plays like a girls’ team. It will be powder puff football in The Swamp on Saturday. Charlotte is one of the worst teams in the country on offense and even worse on defense. Billy Napier can play everybody. Albert makes sweet Charlotte hush, hush – Florida 49, Charlotte 10.

 

Louisiana Tech (2-2) at Nebraska (1-2) – (C-USA vs. Big Ten) – 3 :30 pm ET, Saturday, BTN – After Saturday, the Huskers will be 2-2. Louisiana Tech is a softie. But that’s okay. The Huskers need to build their confidence before starting a steady diet of Big Ten competition. Nebraska is playing good defense. There are few problems on that side of the ball. Nebraska is 3^rd in the country in rush defense – only giving up 43.6 yards a game. It’s the Nebraska offense that is a work in progress. And work has begun there. Jeff Simms was replaced at quarterback last week by Heinrich Haarberg. That in itself was progress. Herbie sends the Bulldogs to the pound – Nebraska 42, Louisiana Tech 9.

 

Duke (3-0) at Connecticut (0-3) – (ACC vs. Ind.) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBSSN – This is Duke’s last cupcake before the Dookies settle into a steady diet of ACC teams. UConn is off to an awful start – worse than anticipated. Two of the Huskies’ three losses are to Georgia State and FIU. Head coach Jim Mora seems to have taken a step backward – two steps. UConn’s offense and defense are among the very worst in the country. Duke has a good offense led by quarterback Riley Leonard. And, amazingly, the Dookies have one of the best defenses in the country. The Dookies muzzle the Huskies – Duke 35, Connecticut 10.

 

UAB (1-2) at Georgia (3-0) – (AAC vs. SEC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN2 – The only thing good you can say about UAB is the quarterback play of Jacob Zeno. Zeno has passed for 956 yards. Everything else about UAB is pretty bad, especially the defense. Georgia is doing well under quarterback Carson Beck. However, the running game has been weak. The Dawg’s defense is giving up just 8 points a game. It’s going to be a long day for the Blazers. Uga slays a dragon – Georgia 52, UAB 14.

 

Texas (3-0) at Baylor (1-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – Not sure what Baylor team will show up against Texas. In general, the Bears have not looked good. But they almost, and should have, beaten Utah. Baylor got its act together in that game. Texas is off to a great start, including the win over Alabama in Tuscaloosa. The Horns did go to sleep but woke up late against Wyoming. Quarterback Quinn Ewers is playing well. Texas should beat Baylor, but something tells me the Bears could give the Horns a battle. Bevo does some skinning – Texas 33, Baylor 14.

 

Wisconsin (2-1) at Purdue (1-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 7 pm ET, Friday, ESPN – So far, it looks like Wisconsin is not as good as the Badgers were supposed to be, and Purdue is worse than the Boilers were supposed to be. That could make for a sloppy game. Wisconsin has had good balance on offense – running and passing. Transfer quarterback Tanner Mordecai has been decent – 703 yards passing. Both schools are under first-year coaches. And like Wisconsin, Purdue has a transfer quarterback too – Hudson Card. These teams are still trying to find themselves. The Badgers find the goodies in West Lafayette – Wisconsin 28, Purdue 23.

 

 

ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA:

 

Butler (2-1) at Stetson (2-1) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

Miami (3-0) at Temple (2-1) – (ACC vs. AAC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN2….

Florida Atlantic (1-2) at Illinois (1-2) – (AAC vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, BTN….

 

Rice (2-1) at South Florida (1-2) – (AAC vs. AAC) – 4 pm ET, Saturday, ESPNU….

Liberty (3-0) at FIU (3-1) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – 6:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

 

Alabama State (1-1) at Florida A&M (2-1) – (SWAC vs. SWAC) – 6 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

Bethune-Cookman (1-2) at Jackson State (2-2) – SWAC vs. SWAC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

West Georgia (2-1) at West Florida (2-1) – (Gulf South vs. Gulf South) – 7 pm ET, Saturday….

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“I have a tremendous amount of respect for Deion Sanders. First, he’s a great person, and he’s done a great job of marketing the program to create a lot of national interest,” Alabama coach Nick Saban.

 

Touchdown Tom

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