Category Archives: ncaa football

NCAA Football – Week 6 Betting Picks

Week 5 was a pretty good week for my picks. I went 10-4 against the spread and picked a few money-line winners. There are some good games this week and some games that the lines look a little skewed. Can America’s White Boy’s weekly upset team, Wyoming, keep their winnings ways against the spread? Here are my Week 6 College football betting picks against the spread.

I am throwing out two games that I would advise to avoid this week. Iowa/Michigan will be tricky and both teams have been severely inconsistent. I would also like to add the Connecticut/Pittsburgh into that category as well. Both of those teams haven’t play any top-tier teams and you really don’t know what kind of teams they are. UConn beat North Carolina earlier this year, but UNC has had a few bad games this year already. The line for the LSU/Florida game hasn’t been released yet, but once I find out if Tim Tebow is listed as playing, I will update this post.

Nebraska (-3) at Missouri (+3) – My pick is Missouri

Missouri has won the last two games against Nebraska by a combined total of 93-23. Missouri doesn’t have Daniel or Maclin anymore, but they still match up well against the Cornhuskers. The Tigers are at home, so I expect a good showing. I’ll take the points and Missouri in this game.

West Virginia (-10) at Syracuse (+10) – My pick is West Virginia

Syracuse has had a hard schedule this year and they don’t have any easy opponents. The Mountaineers have looked strong this year and should win this game by a few touchdowns. Syracuse is a decent team, but when you play the best teams, you look horrible.

Michigan State (-4.5) at Illinois (+4.5) – My pick is Michigan State

Illinois is a trainwreck and they’ve benched Juice Williams in favor of Eddie McGee as their starting quarterback. Michigan State looks to have finally righted the ship last week against Michigan and they should win this game by at least a touchdown. I like the Spartans to win this game on the road.

Auburn (-2.5) at Arkansas (+2.5) – My pick is Auburn

Auburn had a bad year in 2008, but so far this year, they have did what they had to do to stay undefeated. Arkansas has relied on the passing game to win, but have fell short in 2 out of the last 3 games. I like Auburn to win this game on the road as the slight favorites and cover ATS.

Georgia (+1.5) at Tennessee (-1.5) – My pick is Georgia

The Vols are a better team under Lane Kiffin, but they still have a lot to prove. They have been competitive in games, but haven’t won any big games. They are favored in this game, but I look for Georgia to go into Knoxville and win this game. The Bulldogs are good and I believe that their defense will finally show up in this game.

New Mexico (+10) at Wyoming (-10) – My pick is New Mexico

I usually don’t pick against Wyoming this year, but they haven’t won their games by much this year and 10 points seems like a little too much. If it was down to maybe 3, I would say Wyoming, but it is. New Mexico has been able to score points in their losses and I think this one stays close. New Mexico has won the last two games against Wyoming, but I think they will lose a close game, I pick New Mexico ATS.

Houston (+1) at Mississippi State (-1) – My pick is Houston

Houston has looked great this year, but lost a shootout against UTEP last week. They can still put points up and Mississippi State has given up a lot. Houston should be able to throw all over the Bulldogs and win this game. I like Houston to win this game, take the money-line.

Wisconsin (+16) at Ohio State (-16) – My pick is Wisconsin

Ohio State’s defense has finally started to click, but the history of the games between Wisconsin and Ohio State have been nail-biters. A 16-point spread is a large number for any Big Ten game and I don’t see Ohio State covering that large of a spread. The game will be closer than that, so give me the points and I’ll pick Wisconsin.

Utah (-7.5) at Colorado State (+7.5) – My pick is Utah

The spread offense can do damage to any defense and Utah runs it as good as any team. Colorado State has a couple nice wins under their belt this season, but Utah is a much better team

Stanford (-1) at Oregon State (+1) – My pick is Stanford

Jim Harbaugh has the Stanford Cardinal playing very well this year and Oregon State has also shown up for some big games this season. I like both of these teams going forward this season, but I like Stanford to win a close game on the road.

East Carolina (-6.5) at SMU (+6.5) – My pick is East Carolina

SMU, thanks to June Jones, has a high-powered passing attack, but they have not had any big wins so far this season. East Carolina has played a couple marquee games and faired well, but did not win either of those contests. East Carolina is good at forcing turnovers and expect them to get some points off of them against SMU. Give me East Carolina to cover the spread in this game.

Georgia Tech (+2.5) at Florida State (-2.5) – My pick is Georgia Tech

Bobby Bowden is under a lot of pressure in Tallahassee and this is a must win game for them. Georgia Tech has looked impressive this season and should give the Seminoles a good game. I look for the Yellow Jackets to go into Florida State and win against a distracted team. If you pick Georgia Tech, pick the money line, I think they have a chance.

Arizona (-3) at Washington (+3) – My pick is Washington

Why is this line not favoring the Huskies? Have we not learned anything the last few weeks? Washington is a pretty good team and they will be dangerous at home. Arizona has a better record and a win at Oregon State, but Washington are clutch. I will take Washington and the points in this game.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

NCAA Football – Week 5 Betting Picks

Week 4 was a great week and a lot of upsets happened. I went 9-3 last week with my betting picks against the spread for Week 4. This week I have a lot of teams that cover and a few underdogs that I pick to win the game. Here are my college football picks against the spread for Week 5.

I once again leave off the Notre Dame game from my picks. I don’t think that they could be in trouble against Washington, but they only play well at home. South Bend could have a decent game going on, but I’m staying away from it.

I want to add another game that I am staying away from and it’s taking place in Bloomington, Indiana. Ohio State is going to play Indiana, which was supposed to be bad. They have impressed me a few times this season and I just don’t know which way to go in that game. If you would have asked me two months ago about this game, Ohio State would win easily and the line would open up at around -20, but it’s a different now and I’m staying away.

Pittsburgh (-6.5) at Louisville (+6.5) – My pick is Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a good team and Louisville didn’t even win with the points last week against Utah. Pittsburgh is going to win this game by a few touchdowns, but the over/under could be nice, since this game will have a lot of points.

South Florida (-6.5) at Syracuse (+6.5) – My pick is South Florida

I like this line, since it’s under a touchdown. Syracuse have only looked great in flashes and has barely put an entire game together. South Florida and that new quarterback should take care of business in Syracuse.

Northwestern (+7) at Purdue (-7) – My pick is Purdue

Neither of these teams have really impressed me, but Purdue is fairing better than expected. This line open at Purdue -6.5, but has moved. I would get in on this before it moves to -7.5, and a touchdown win would leave you in the loss column.

Toledo (-4.5) at Ball State (+4.5) – My pick is Toledo

I hate to pick against my alma mater, but Ball State is bad. They won against the spread in the Auburn game, but they the Cardinals scored some points in garbage time. Toledo played Purdue well, but laid up a goose egg against Ohio State. Toledo will score points against the bad Ball State defense..

Michigan (+1.5) at Michigan State (-1.5) – My pick is Michigan

I love the Wolverines in this game. This game opened at a pick’em, but moved towards the Spartans. Michigan will bounce back from a rough outing against Indiana.

Central Michigan (-8) at Buffalo (+8) – My pick is Central Michigan

Central Michigan has a star quarterback and should shred the Buffalo defense up. Buffalo has not looked very good at all this season and are much worse than their team from last season. Turner Gill can’t work miracles, Central Michigan wins this game easily.

Penn State (-7) at Illinois (+7) – My pick is Penn State

I have had success picking against Illinois all season and I’m not going to stop this week. Penn State is still a good team, they lost to a good Iowa team and Illinois is very, very bad. I still feel that Penn State is a better team than Ohio State and they killed the Illini last weekend.

UNLV (+3.5) at Nevada (-3.5) – My pick is UNLV

Nevada’s betting lines are still being swayed by last season’s team. They are bad this year and I’m not buying them at home or on the road. UNLV may not be impressive either, but Nevada can’t do anything right this year.

Wyoming (+3.5) at Florida Atlantic (-3.5) – My pick is Wyoming

No matter if it is FIU or FAU, both of them stink. Wyoming have looked good so far this season and I think that they travel to Florida Atlantic and take care of business.

Mississippi (-8) at Vanderbilt (+8) – My pick is Mississippi

I was hosed last week when Mississippi played South Carolina. I wasn’t sold on the Gamecocks defense, but I’m officially sold, they’re good. Mississippi will bounce back against the Commodores and Snead will light them on fire.

Oklahoma (-7.5) at Miami (+7.5) – My pick is Oklahoma

Miami has beaten some over-rated teams and somehow they shot up the rankings. Oklahoma lost a game when their quarterback was injured and the entire was in shock. The Sooners have looked great since and they will smoke the Hurricanes.

USC (-4.5) at California (+4.5) – My pick is USC

It’s a shame that Stafon Johnson was injured in a weight room accident, but USC has depth at running back. Joe Mcknight will run all over and Cal could be over-rated after getting smoked by Oregon last week. Give me USC by at least a touchdown.

LSU (+3) at Georgia (-3) – My pick is LSU

Georgia can put up plenty of points, but LSU can stop them a few times this game. Georgia’s defense is bad and it will be a shootout. Give me LSU in this high-scoring game.

I hope you enjoy our picks. They are for entertainment purposes and please bet responsibly.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

NCAA Football – Week 3 Betting Picks

Week 2 was a pretty difficult week and a lot of upsets happened, but I still have faith in the system. My betting picks against the spread for Week 3 have a lot of teams that cover and a few underdogs that I pick to win the game. Here are my college football picks against the college football lines for Week 3.

How did you do in Week 2? The consensus is that people lost money by betting on Oklahoma State, USC to cover, and Notre Dame, who saw that coming? This week will be much better and I think everyone will make their money back and much more.

Arizona (+5.5) at Iowa (-5.5) – My pick is Iowa

Iowa laid it to Iowa State last week and Arizona kept up their winning ways as well. Arizona relies on their rushing attack and Iowa can stop the run. The Wildcats need to get their quarterback situation under control if they expect to keep winning. I like Iowa by a touchdown in this game.

Indiana (+5) at Akron (-5) – My pick is Akron

I don’t normally pick a MAC team over a Big Ten team, but Indiana is very bad. Akron should be able to control this game and win easily at home. Indiana will have trouble winning any more games this season.

San Diego State (-3.5) at Idaho (+3.5) – My pick is San Diego State

The Aztecs should roll over the Vandals in this one. Out of all of my football picks, I like this one the best. Brady Hoke came from Ball State and they have a pretty good offense in San Diego. Idaho is a decent team and should keep it within 10 points, but San Diego will cover in this game.

Connecticut (+10.5) at UConn (-10.5) – My pick is Baylor

Uconn played well against North Carolina, but their offense isn’t clicking just yet. Baylor can put points up very easily and UConn will have trouble keeping up. I like Baylor in this game by two touchdowns, their offense is just too good.

West Virginia (+7) at Auburn (-7) – My pick is West Virginia

Auburn has looked great under their new coach, but 7 points is just too much of a point spread against West Virginia. The Mountaineers have won both of their games and their offense is clicking. I think this game will be close and Auburn will win by a field goal. Give me West Virigina with the points, I wouldn’t be surprised if they came out the winner.

Georgia (+1) at Arkansas (-1) – My pick is Georgia

I like this line a lot, since I think Georgia will win this game. Arkansas played LSU very well their first game and they knocked Missouri State against last week. Georgia lost to Oklahoma State in Week 1, but they won against South Carolina last week, which has a tough defense. Mark Richt will have the Bulldogs playing well and come out a winner against the Razorbacks this week.

Northwestern (-3.5) at Syracuse (+3.5) – My pick is Northwestern

Neither of these teams have looked very good this year, but Northwestern is a better team. Syracuse got blown out by Penn State last week and Northwestern barely squeaked by Eastern Michigan. Both of these teams will be playing hard and up to their ability. If this line goes down to 3 points, I really like Northwestern, but I could see this game being a 28-24 type of game. I like Northwestern in a close one.

Florida State (+7.5) at BYU (-7.5) – My pick is BYU

BYU have looked great this year and the Seminoles are barely keeping their heads above water. They did lose a close game against Miami, but they barely got past Jacksonville State last week. BYU is the one non-BCS team that has a shot at the Championship game if they win out, I like BYU to win this game by at least 10 points.

Cincinnati (-1) at Oregon State (+1) – My pick is Cincinnati

This line has moved over the last 24 hours, since Oregon State was initially the favorite in this game. I like the Bearcats to win this game on the road, since Tony Pike looks like the real deal for Cincinnati. Oregon State will make noise in the PAC-10 this year, but they won’t be able to handle the best from the Big East.

Navy (+7) at Pittsburgh (-7) – My pick is Navy

Navy is a hard team to get ready for and their triple power option offense can really throw a team off of their game. You saw an example of that when they played Ohio State earlier this season. Pittsburgh has looked great this year, but you have to respect Navy and think that this game will be closer than a touchdown.

Ohio State (-20.5) at Toledo (+20.5) – My pick is Toledo

This game is being played at a neutral location and Browns Stadium isn’t the Horseshoe, but many Buckeye fans will make their way up to attend the game. Toledo has a pretty good offense and I am not sold on Ohio State being a very good offensive team yet. Ohio State will win the game, but this line is too high, I’ll take the points and pick Toledo.

I hope you enjoy our picks. They are for entertainment purposes and please bet responsibly.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

How Ohio State Can Beat USC

It looks like the deck is stacked against Ohio State this weekend. The game is in Columbus, but nearly every analyst, even myself, thinks that USC will win this game. The Trojans have owned this series the last six games and the USC Hall-of-Famers will be in town to intimidate the home crowd. Here are a few things that Ohio State can do if they want to come out victorious.

Stack The Box And Make Matt Barkley Throw – USC is loaded in the backfield and they usually don’t fair well against teams who run the ball effectively. If they can stack the box and keep Joe McKnight and C.J. Gable from running the ball, they can force the freshman quarterback to pass the ball. If they can make USC a one-dimensional team, maybe they have a chance.

Unveil The Trick Plays – I know Ohio State isn’t known for their trick plays, but if you can pull one off early, you will get their defense guessing. The linebacking corps is young and does not have much in-game college experience. If you can get them to shoot a wrong gap or get them going in an opposite direction, maybe Boom Herron, Brandon Saine, or Jaamal Berry can get into the secondary. Pryor’s elusiveness could make a trick play turn into something special. Maybe a halfback pass to Pryor?….Okay, I’m now just speculating.

Put A Laxative In Taylor Mays’ Gatorade – The guy is a stud safety and if they want to pass over the top on USC, Mays needs to be out of the game. I don’t endorse this action, but if they want any deep passing game, he can’t be in the equation.

Put Ray Small’s Jersey On Ted Ginn Jr. – Ginn Jr. has a game on Sunday, but you’re Ohio State, you have access to airplanes! Ray Small has been a disappointment, since he was supposed to turn into a Ted Ginn clone, but that has not happened. If Small is looking a little bigger on Saturday….I’m just saying.

Damage Ohio Stadium And Demand The Game Is Played In December – I think it’s ridiculous that USC never plays a team in cold weather. When Notre Dame plays at USC, it’s one of the last games of the year, but when USC visits South Bend, IN, the game is in early October. If USC ever played in the snow, they would lose about two touchdowns off of their average point total.

Those are only a few ways that Ohio State has a legitimate shot at beating USC. I could have written a post on “How USC Can Beat Ohio State,” but unfortunately it would be very short and most likely read “Arrive In Columbus, Put On Shoes.”

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

A Michigan Fan’s Journey To The Season Opener

Our resident University of Michigan fan, Joe Pasquali, went to the season opener against Western Michigan last weekend. He starts out pretty timid, but ends like any true Wolverines fan, cocky as hell. Here is his detailed experience from the season opener.

We drove up, parked in the same place off the Michigan Golf Course, fired up the same grill, played the same game of corn hole (or bag toss, whatever you want to call it) and downed the same beers. On the exterior the 2009 Michigan opening game would look like every opening game I have been to over the past years, this being my 8th in a row. But, if I told you it felt like any of the others, I’d be lying.

Nervous
Worried
No Confidence
Quiet

These are things I would never expect to feel at an opening game in The Big House. And frankly, I shouldn’t have to feel. But I did. And I can tell you 100,000 other people were feeling the same way. Sure, we hid it well by going through our normal routine and pretending this year is just like every other, when deep down we knew it wasn’t.

Even before the game started, one point to hammer it home was when a Western Michigan fan started trash talking to me while walking up to the gate. We had struck up polite speculation on the game ahead when all of the sudden he started into it.

“Man, we are going to hang like 40 on you guys, just like App. State, Utah, Oregon, and everybody else that comes into the Quiet House. You got no defense, I mean, who do you got??”
Any other year, ANY OTHER YEAR, I would have just spat back a few curse words and told him to head back to crappy Western and hope he gets to head back East sometime for the Motor City bowl. But not this year.

I actually found myself defending UM to a Broncos fan! I said, “Well, Brandon Graham is good, and Obi Ezeh, OH and Donovan Warren is a great cornerback.” The Western fan laughed, cursed Michigan and yelled a projected Broncos whooping in front of 100 Michigan fans. No one yelled back. Everyone was too nervous to back UM.

I say now, thinking of the pre-game and the Western fan, that a University of Michigan fan should never defend his team to a Western Michigan fan, or really, most fans for that matter. And I never will again. Ok, two bad years, yeah we had that. Lets start counting your teams bad years. Yeah thought so. Below are the teams that I will defend my team to in the future, because I have respect for their programs and their winning traditions.

Ohio State
Penn State
Florida
USC
Oklahoma
Texas
Alabama
Nebraska
Tennessee

That’s it. Yeah, I know I left Notre Dame off. Why? Because I will not take trash talk from a Golden Domer, no sir. Sorry, I got my UM hat on for this article and if you are a Notre Dame fan feel free to send me hate mail at Radioguy1486@yahoo.com

Anyways, back to the game.

The environment at Michigan could not have been summed up better than the first two drives for both teams. Western gets the ball first, Michigan forces a punt after a 3 and out. Place goes nuts, the typical DEFENSE chants arise and the student section erupts, all is well and good.

Michigan gets the ball……. the place goes a bit quiet…. AND MICHIGAN GETS A FIRST DOWN. OH HAPPY DAYS. Literally, everyone wearing maize or blue starts cheering like we just won the game. FOR A FIRST DOWN. Oh, but it gets better.

Forcier is leading us on a pretty decent first drive and are already in field goal range and he has thrown some good balls. People in the crowd are murmuring about how well this freshman is playing, but still a bit nervous. Forcier runs a play action and rolls out of the pocket, he is looking downfield, he makes a read and lofts a ball to a breaking Junior Hemingway. In 2008 this ball is intercepted, the drive stopped and Michigan Stadium falls silent. But, THIS YEAR, the ball is just out of reach for the defender and Hemingway catches it falling into the end zone. Michigan Stadium lifts off the face of the earth. 100,000 plus people are yelling, screaming, hugging each other and praising Tate Forcier.

Tate Forcier, the second coming of Christ.
Tate Forcier, Tom Brady, Chad Henne, Brian Griese, all rolled into one.
Tate Forcier, who the f%$k needs Pryor.
Tate Forcier, with him all things are possible.

Not joking, this is how we all felt after that one drive. One drive. The rest of the game Michigan rolled and as the points stacked up us fans felt our confidence returning, slowly but surely.

One of the funniest parts of the game came near the end when my Dad looked to me in the third quarter and asked when I wanted to get out of here. Since we got a two hour plus drive home, in the past openers we usually left late in the game when Michigan was rolling. It had been at least two years since I could leave a UM game early because WE were beating on someone!

I turned to my Dad and said, “Yeah, we got this one. Let’s get out of here.”
Because really, Western Michigan, was there any doubt?

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

NCAA Football – Week 2 Betting Picks

Week 1 was a lot of fun and I hope that you read my picks. I went 8-2 against the spread and I know that I at least helped out one person out. I missed on the Ohio State/Navy and Va Tech/Alabama games. See who I picked this week, I have a few locks and a possible upset brewing. Can I keep the hot streak going? Read who I pick in Week 2 of the College Football season.

A reader named Billy Horan emailed me saturday night with some good news. Apparently my picks helped him out and he sent me this email.

I just wanted to email you and thank you for writing ur college football blog lol I wasnt sure if I should do a certain bet but after reading ur blog, I did and won $150 on a parlay wirh notre dame, oklahoma state and uconn with their respective spreads. I hope it was a good night for you as well. Thanks man BHoran08@yahoo.com
I’m glad that I could help him out and I hope he has another great week coming up. Here are my picks against the spread for Week 2.

Syracuse (+28.5) at Penn State (-28.5) – My pick is Syracuse

I usually stay away from point spreads over 20, but this game just screams at me. Syracuse did a pretty nice job against Minnesota and I don’t think Penn State would run up the score against the Orangemen. Penn State will win this game, but it will only be by just around three touchdowns.

Notre Dame (-3) at Michigan (+3) – My pick is Notre Dame

It looks like little Jimmy Claussen has grown up. He has a great relationship with his receivers and the Irish will win this game by 2 touchdowns at the Big House. This is my sure bet this week. Michigan’s young quarterbacks will be confused and extra nervous. Don’t let Michigan’s performance fool you, they played a directional school and Notre Dame beat a team that played in a bowl game last season. The Irish are a better team and they should win easily.

UCLA (+8) at Tennessee (-8) – My pick is Tennessee

Lane Kiffin wants to put a crooked number on the scoreboard against UCLA. This series have became pretty heated over the last two seasons and I look for the Vols to win and cover the eight points. UCLA is still pretty green at the quarterback position and will have trouble moving the ball.

North Carolina (-4.5) at UConn (+4.5) – My pick is North Carolina

Butch Davis has been recruiting well over the last two seasons and some of those players are starting to mature. They have a higher talent level than UConn and they should prove themselves on the road. They should win by at least 10 points.

Houston (+15) at Oklahoma State (-15) – My pick is Oklahoma State

The Cowboys looked great last week and they should beat Houston pretty easily. OSU is a top 5 team in the country and their line shold be much higher. They will win this game by three or four scores, this team is so loaded on offense and they have one of the better defenses of the good teams in the Big 12.

Colorado (-4) at Toledo (+4) – My pick is Colorado

Toledo is an okay team in the MAC and should do okay against Colorado at home. They looked good against Purdue, but most teams will this season. Last week Colorado lost at home against Colorado State. CSU is a good team and you can’t discount Colorado because of that game. They will beat Toledo by at least a touchdown to cover.

Iowa (-6.5) at Iowa State (+6.5) – My pick is Iowa

Iowa looked horrible against Northern Iowa and they should have lost that game. The Hawkeyes are known to get better as the year goes on, but they definitely miss Shonn Greene. Iowa State has a new coach and doubled up North Dakota State last week. You can’t take much away from either game, since Northern Iowa’s players were more hyped to play Iowa than the other way around and N.D. State is worst than Northern Iowa. Iowa should rebound on the road against their rival.

Ohio (-3) at North Texas (+3) – My pick is Ohio

Ohio lost against a decent UConn team, but they weren’t favored in that game. They should have a pretty good team and do well in the MAC this season. North Texas had a horrible 2008, but beat Ball State last week, but the Cardinals are down this year since they lost their coach and a few starters from last season. Ohio should do well on the road and cover.

USC (-7) at Ohio State (+7) – My pick is USC

I am going to write a complete review of this game later today. I will save you from reading a thousand word essay on why the Trojans are still a much better team until you read my post. Ohio State has a weak offensive line, young receivers, and inexperienced backfield. I don’t see them putting too many points on the Trojans. Looking at USC, they have a strong backfield, a good, not great, offensive line, and a talented corps of receivers. Just looking at the offense alone, knowing that both of these defenses are rebuilding, USC should win this game by at least two touchdowns in Columbus on Saturday.

Utah (-14) at San Jose State (+14) – My pick is Utah

San Jose State looked good against USC in the first quarter, but unfortunately they had to play the other three and they lost big. Utah is a pretty solid team and should beat San Jose State by two touchdowns and cover easily. If they don’t cover, they should be demoted from the NCAA to the Lingerie Football League.

TCU (-11) at Virginia (+11) – My pick is Virginia

UVA lost to William & Mary last week and I’m picking them as my Underdog pick of the week? That is correct, sir. TCU haven’t played in 2009 yet and going on the road will be tough. They didn’t blow teams out last year and Virginia usually plays people pretty close as the season progresses. The loss against William & Mary will light a fire under their asses and they just may win against TCU. I’ll take the points and Virginia will bounce back

I hope you enjoy our picks. They are for entertainment purposes and please bet responsibly.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

NCAA Football – Week 1 Betting Picks

I have been known to throw down some money on NCAA football games. I have had some great success and if you do your homework, the first two weeks of the season could be very good for you. I have listed some of my picks against the spread for the Week 1 college football schedule. Good luck and please bet responsibly.

Oregon (+4) at Boise State (-4) – My pick is Boise State

I predict big things for Boise State this season. Oregon did have a decent year last season, but the Broncos are playing on their blue turf and expect a high scoring game. I would say that Boise State has them beat by at least 6.5.

Navy (+21.5) at Ohio State (-21.5) – My pick is Ohio State

Ohio State is out to get respect again, after getting rocked in their last few BCS games. Chris Spielman may be trying to warn the Buckeyes to “not sleep on Navy,” and he’s right, but I have the Buckeyes by 4 touchdowns against the Midshipmen.

Akron (+27.5) at Penn State (-27.5) – My pick is Penn State

This game could get ugly. Penn State should score and score early. They should have the spread covered by halftime. This will be a blowout.

Western Michigan (+7) at Michigan (-7) – My pick is Michigan

It kills to me bet with Michigan, but I would say that the line is near perfect. They will probably keep it close and keep it around 10 points. Michigan is going through a scandal with Rich Rodriguez by having his players workout too much. It depends if this lights a fire under their asses or play with their tail between their legs.

Nevada (+14.5) at Notre Dame (-14.5) – My pick is Notre Dame

Jimmy Clausen looked great against Hawaii and he’ll have all of his deep threats back once again. This is my lock of the week (I need a better word than that). Charlie Weis lessened his schedule and should have a double-digit win total. Notre Dame will win by at least 17 points.

Georgia (+5.5) at Oklahoma State (-5.5) – My pick is Oklahoma State

Georgia won’t look like a dominant team early this season. You can’t lose Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno and look good. Oklahoma State will be a nice sleeper team in the Big 12 and should win by 7.

UConn (-3.5) at Ohio (+3.5) – My pick is Connecticut

I know that I have been picking the home teams to cover so far this week, but I like UConn to win in Athens, OH. They have a nice program there, it took a few years, but UConn should win some games this season. They should win by a touchdown.

Virginia Tech (+6.5) at Alabama (-6.5) – My pick is Alabama

The Hokies sure look like a nice upset pick here, but I can’t do it. I have bet on the Hokies at the beginning of the season the last two seasons and they haven’t looked great the first game. Alabama did lose some line pieces on both sides of the ball, but Julio Jones will rock Va Tech’s secondary and Mark Ingram should have a nice game on the ground. I would love if this spread swayed about a point more towards Va Tech, but I like Alabama by 7, if it gets higher than 7, bet the under. Keep an eye on the status of both Jones and Ingram, they could end up ineligible, so please keep an eye on this. If they end up being suspended for this game, Va Tech becomes the strong favorite.

Buffalo (+8) at UTEP (-8) – My pick is Buffalo

This is my upset pick of the week. I think that Buffalo has turned things around and this spread is because of their past reputation. Turner Gill has the program playing great and I wouldn’t be surprised if they won this game outright, but for right now, I will take Buffalo with the points.

Mississippi (-16) at Memphis (+16) – My pick is Mississippi

If Jevon Snead wants to out-play Tim Tebow for the SEC Player of the Year and/or Heisman, he will need to start the season with a blow-out at Memphis. I would think that they could win by at least 24 points and this spread is quite low. I would parlay this game with two more to improve your payout.

Cincinnati (+6) at Rutgers (-6) – My pick is Cincinnati

Rutgers lost two keys to their offensive success over the last few seasons. Mike Teel and Kenny Britt are both gone, but Rutgers have recruited well. Tony Pike and the Cincinnati Bearcats came off an appearance in a BCS game, so they have a lot of momentum. I am taking the under and think Cincinnati will make this an extremely close again in Piscataway, NJ.

I hope you enjoy our picks. They are for entertainment purposes and please bet responsibly.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

Big Ten Preview: Penn State Nittany Lions

Yes, we are predicting that Penn State will win the Big Ten this year. Yes, I will probably be beat up in the alley by my house in Columbus, OH. Yes, Joe Pasquali wrote this piece. Yes, Joe Paterno is still the coach. I agree with Joe, Penn State are going to be good and the conference will be close, but the game against Ohio State will decide the Big Ten Championship. Enjoy the finale of the Big Ten Preview.

Finishing #1 in the Big Ten
Penn State Nittany Lions (Predicted Finish 11-1)

Summary– The Lions from Happy Valley will be repeating as Big Ten Champions this year. Too many things are looking in Penn State’s favor to think otherwise. Nine offensive and nine defensive starters return, a schedule that is very kind, and off years for other Big Ten Powers. The stars have all aligned for Penn State to repeat and be playing in Pasadena once more.

Offense (A-)– Evan Royster and Daryll Clark return to lead an offense that lead the Big Ten in scoring last season. It was a unit that was not only balanced but very explosive for the Nittany Lions. For a mobile quarterback such as Clark and running back with the potential as Royster, a key component is the offensive line. Penn State only returns two of their big uglies up front; if there is any question mark on the offense the line would be it. The only thing I foresee hurting them from putting the ball in the end zone is conservative play calling. (See Ohio State game 2008)

Defense (B)– It will be a cold day in you know what when Linebacker U has an off year on the defensive side of the ball. No other school has reloaded like Penn State at the linebacker position over the last ten years, and this year poses to be no different. Sean Lee is returning from an injury that kept him sidelined last year and will prove to be a difference maker. Look for fellow LB Navarro Bowman to have a big year as well. The one weakness of the Penn State defense will be against the pass. Maybin and Gaines were great pass rushing defensive ends that harassed opposing quarterbacks often. Lydell Sergeant and Tony Davis were two solid CB’s with big play potential. These losses will hurt PSU more than anything else in 2009.

Special Teams (B)– A lot of kickers competing for the starting job including three freshmen. Junior Collin Wagner will most likely get the nod as the man knocking it through the uprights, at least to start. Jeremy Boone is one of the better punters in the Big Ten (42 yard net average) and should be once again this year.

Coaching (A)– Who really knows if Joe Pa is still calling the plays for Penn State, but who cares? This team keeps popping out winning seasons. Yeah, USC smoked ‘em last year in the Rose Bowl, but when did a Big Ten team NOT get smoked by USC.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

Big Ten Preview: Ohio State Buckeyes

I have lived in Columbus, OH for the past 3 years and the fanbase here is rabid. I’m sure there are children here with the first name “Tressel.” With Terrelle Pryor behind the center, they expect big things this season. They are used to winning, but with their anchors on defense graduating and losing Beanie Wells and their entire receiving corps to graduation or draft, can their expectations be high? Joe Pasquali is here with the preview of the Ohio State Buckeyes, who we have finishing #2 in the Big Ten this year.

Finishing #2 in the Big Ten
The Ohio State Buckeyes (Predicted Finish 10-2)

Summary– Ohio State has a great team this season. Really, they do. Anyone who thinks this will be a complete rebuilding season for the boys from Columbus has apparently never watched a Jim Tressel team. This is a team that has depth, great coaching, and explosiveness in all of the right areas. The Achilles heel for this team is scheduling. A game against USC, playing at Penn State and at rebounding Michigan. Not good news for OSU.

Offense (B+)– Hot and Cold was the Buckeyes offense last season and the 2009 season should bring more of the same. Terrelle Pryor is some kind of athlete at the QB position, but questionable decisions in big games was his downfall. He will have three returning starters on the offensive line in front of him which should help his first full year at the helm go fairly smooth. A lot of young talent occupy the RB and WR positions, it will be interesting to see who steps up as a major threat. The Buckeyes had the 104th ranked pass offense last year, and that was WITH Robiskie and Hartline. To be a National Championship contender, OSU has to be more two dimensional.

Defense (A)– I fear for any quarterbacks that have to play against Ohio State this season. The Buckeyes return all 4 starters from a defensive line that was fairly athletic last year, sacking opposing quarterbacks 28 times. Thorpe winner Malcolm Jenkins will be missed, but the other three members of the Buckeye secondary will be back. Also, it’s not like any team in the Big Ten has a huge threat at the WR position. New faces at two of the three LB positions will be the only question mark for this defense, but I expect them to do just fine.

Special Teams (C)– Since Tressel has been in town OSU has always played pretty top notch special teams, but a new kicker and punter always leave folks wondering who is this kid booting the ball around. Also, should be some new faces when it comes to returning kicks and punts as well.

Coaching (A)– Jim Tressel is one of the best coaches in the country and the best coach in the Big Ten. Conservative play calling against Penn State angered the Buckeye faithful, but anyone who really wants to blame losses on Tressel has to have a reality check. Do you remember a guy named Cooper? Yeah, thought so. Shut up.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

Big Ten Preview: Iowa Hawkeyes

Kirk Ferentz is lucky to always have a nice pre-season ranking, but he rarely finishes where they predict. He will miss Shomm Greene this season, but will another running back step up? Iowa brings back a nice defense from last year and should do well against the run this year. Joe Pasquali is here once again to talk about his #3 pick in the Big Ten, the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Finishing #3 in the Big Ten
Iowa Hawkeyes (Predicted Finish 9-3)

Summary– Iowa is expected to have a big season. Last time this was the case pre-season (2007) the Hawkeyes disappointed everyone and went a mediocre 6-6. Out of the starting 22 positions Iowa has 15 returning starters. However, and this is a BIG however, the Hawkeyes have to travel to Columbus, Happy Valley, and Camp Randall. Iowa will lose two of those, if not all three. I do feel someone has to step up and get to nine wins outside of PSU/OSU and I think Iowa has the best shot.

Offense (B+)– Shonn Greene was a STUD at RB last year for the Hawkeyes and losing him hurts, but don’t expect a big drop off statistically for Iowa. They will have the best offensive line in the conference anchored by All-Conference Tackles Bryan Bulaga and Kyle Calloway. Ricky Stanzi managed the offense very well last season and made few mistakes; he will need to have another solid season for the Hawkeyes to live up to the hype.

Defense (A-)– Eight returning starters for a defense that slapped around Spurrier’s men in the Outback Bowl last winter, things are looking good in Iowa. Pat Angerer (MLB) and Amari Spievey (CB) are both all conference and two of the best players in the country at their respective positions. This defense ranked 2nd in the Big Ten last year only behind Penn State and should finish towards the top once more. The only question mark is two new starters at DT (Karl Klug and Mark Daniels) and at 258 lbs/267 lbs respectively, may be a bit undersized up the middle.

Special Teams (B)– Daniel Murray is an average kicker who only saw game action half of the season last year, making six of nine kicks. Ryan Donahue was all conference last season at the punting position and matched with a great defense should give opposing teams fits.

Coaching (B)– Kirk Ferentz may be on the hot seat this season. Iowa has pretty big expectations and will be looking for a top there finish. If Iowa slips to a 6-6 or 7-5 season, look for a change to be in order. If they finish 3rd as predicted, he’ll probably get a huge contract. Thus is the world of college football.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

Big Ten Preview: Michigan State Spartans

Michigan State has been very streaky the last few seasons and that did not change last year. They started great, but then hit a wall. Mark Dantonio has a tough task ahead, have they found pieces to replace Javon Ringer and Brian Hoyer on offense? Joe Pasquali is here to breakdown Michigan State in this part of the Big Ten Preview.

Finishing T-#4 in the Big Ten
Michigan State Spartans (Predicted finish 8-4)

Summary– It’s a somewhat put up or shut up year for the Spartans, and I think they will put up. I know that sounds weird since I am predicting them for 8 wins, but they will have to earn ALL nine of them. Games at Notre Dame, Wisconsin, and Illinois, along with welcoming Iowa and Penn State to East Lansing should make a tough year for MSU. It is nice they have so many returning starters, but anytime you got a new QB at the helm a projected 8-4 year can easily become a 6-6 one.

Offense (B-)– Brian Hoyer was no Drew Stanton, but it was nice he knew the offense and managed games fairly well. Handing the ball off to Javon Ringer was mainly his job last season, and he did that pretty well. Ringer will be THE most missed offensive player in the Big Ten this season. He carried MSU on his back last year, rushing for 1637 yards and 22 touchdowns. Should be more of a running back by committee year for the Spartans, which is not always a bad thing.

Defense (A-)– This will be the best Michigan State defense the country has seen in a LONG time. Not usually known for a dominating D, MSU should surprise plenty of fans but few coaches this year. Greg Jones will be a finalist for Big Ten defensive player of the year and should strike fear into opposing offenses. Along with him, Michigan State 8 starters from a defense that ranked in the top half of the nation last year.

Special Teams (A)– Brett Swenson and Aaron Bates are the best kicker/punter tandem in the conference. Swenson was 22-28 on field goals last year, including 6-7 between 40-49 yards.

Coaching (B)– Mark Dantonio is one of the up and coming coaches in the conference and seems to have the Spartans heading in the right direction. I would have given him a higher grade, but 2009 should be tough. We’ll see how he handles it.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

Big Ten Preview: Northwestern Wildcats

Northwestern had a better than expected season in 2008, can they build on that success or was that just a senior-laden team playing in a weak Big Ten last year? Pat Fitzgerald is a coach on the rise and he will be tested this season with little returning on offense. Joe Pasquali has our Northwestern analysis in our 2009 Big Ten Preview.

Finishing T-#4 in the Big Ten
Northwestern Wildcats (Predicted Finish 8-4)

Summary– Northwestern had the quietest nine win season the country last year and turned plenty of heads in the Big Ten. Wins at Iowa, Minnesota, and Michigan proved that this Wildcat team was for real. Bad for the Wildcats however is their inexperience on offense, which will only return 4 starters, none of which are at skill positions. Their schedule is fairly easy, with Ohio State and Michigan State at home.

Offense(C+)– As stated above, NW only returns four players on offense, three offensive linemen and their Tight End Josh Brooks. Senior Mike Kafka will be at the helm for the Wildcats at QB and RB Stephen Simmons should split carries with redshirt Freshman Alex Daniel. Games against Towson, Eastern Michigan, and Syracuse will be good for the inexperienced offense to get clicking before conference play.

Defense (B+)– Northwestern will have the most underrated defense in the conference and also one of the best. Defensive End Corey Whooten missed last season with an injury but is healthy and ready to make an impact. The consensus pre-season All American will most likely be picked in the first round of next spring’s NFL Draft, but this fall he will be causing havoc in Big Ten back fields. All together Northwestern has nine returning starters on defense.

Special Teams (B)– Stefan Demos returns as the kicker AND punter for the Wildcats this season. After having a solid 2008 campaign punting the ball Northwestern has given him all of their special team’s kicking duties.

Coaching (B-)– Pat Fitzgerald is still very green when it comes to coaches in the Big Ten but showed last year that he had all the tools to make an impact. This will be a big season for Northwestern, especially with Ohio State and Michigan off the schedule.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.