Day 1 Draft Breakdown...Wide Receivers

Last year? There was not much quality to the depth that was out there for the passcatcher. There was a lot of depth, but there was no first round ace. This year? It brings something different. Height and awesome. Trust me, there will be a lot of receivers drafted here.


1. Michael Crabtree Texas Tech
6'2" 215 4.54

There is so much to love about Michael Crabtree's game? It's sick. Outside of timed speed? Here's what Crabtree brings to the table.

Size
Hands
Ball skills
Ups
Hand catching at the high point
Physicality
Route-running
Getting himself open
And he was a Heisman finalist on one foot last year. Yeah. he's an ace.

What's his weaknesses? The speed is not great, and the separation will become an issue at some point. It also means he's never going to be a home run hitter. But I am merely nitpicking. Crabtree is ready.

I mean, worst case scenario? He's Keyshawn Johnson. But like the last redshirt sophomore to declare himself for the draft, there's a surprising polish to his game. If you must know. Crabtree could sky to Larry Fitzgerald's heights. He has that high of an upside.


2. Jeremy Maclin Missouri
6'0" 198 4.45

Jeremy Maclin has that certain something to his game. It's a mixture of elusiveness that rivals Devin Hester and hands that compare favorably to Torry Holt. Give him the first step? And he's gone. Have him leap for the ball? He'll get it. And going east and west? He's just as scary.

He does have one real weakness right now. Ask him to run the entire route tree? And it won't go great. His concentration can run hot and cold. And he does need to develop more on-field strength.

But if he gets his hands on the ball? He's straight nightmare for defenders. You will see him as a returner straight away, and he will be awesome. When his polish gets there? He will be kind of like Steve Smith without the crazy.


3. Darrius Heyward-Bey Maryland
6'2" 210 4.25

There's a certain archetype that you find in Wide Receivers. The wide receiver with superb athleticism and no polish to him. That's DHB in a nuthsell. The 40-time is sexy, and he does have olympic level straight line speed. He does have the build that if the light ever turned on, he could be better than Crabtree. He has solid ball skills and the same sort of physciality and fearlessness.

But his hands are inconsistent on his best days, and his instincts and awareness? Also not so good. Maclin's route running skills are better as well. And that sprinter speed? Strictly straight line as well. He also won't break many tackles for a dude his size.

In my head, I have a name. This is strictly first instinct, and I know I've been proven wrong in these scenarios before. But the name that fits the archetype of DHB, at least in its most recent incarnations? Troy Williamson. Turtle nation can commence feeling insulted...now.


4. Percy Harvin Florida
5'11" 192 4.39

Percy Harvin is a weapon, pure and simple. Get him the ball out in space? And he's going to fuck some shit up. He has soft hands and good body control. But his elusiveness? His elusiveness is the skill that pays his bills. Sweeps, screens, slants and flies. Spectacular.

If you've heard of anything close to Percy Harvin, you know his major weakness is his feet. He does not stay healthy, and it's mostly with his heel and ankle. Sure, route running is a bit of a problem, but you know what? Being a Devin Hester-Reggie Bush type with missing positional and seemingly no special teams skills is essentially ballast if he can't stay healthy.

What he brings to the table when he sees the field? It's Top 5 talent. He is such a good playmaker when healthy you you see him among the left tackles and Crabtree. But the problem? He's not a strong healer, and he always seems dinged up, and that's why he may fall out of the first round of the draft.


5. Hakeem Nicks North Carolina
6'1" 212 4.51

Youtube Hakeem Nicks, and you know what you'll find? He has hands that are spectacular. That catch wasn't merely ancedotal, dude has got hands. He also has general ball skills and excellent body control. And he has the heart to work the middle of the field.

He will never be a vertical threat. He does not have great levels of athleticism. He does not get great separation. The injury at the combine cum fat butt? It is only an issue because it entails character and motor. If he gains 15 pounds because of a lack of working out for the biggest job interview ever? What happens when he gets rich?

Let the scout that made the rumors of Hakeem being an underized tight end fade from your mind. What he is, is a receiver with hands of glue. He may never be spectacular. But he has the grit and intangibles to have a nice decade long run as a Jake Reed type. He will possess your heart.


6. Kenny Britt Rutgers
6'3" 218 4.50

He knows how to use his height and long arms to his advantage like a Republican on a Racist southerner. He can get up and snatch the ball out of the air. Add to that good timed speed, solid route running and a general swagger to his stride? There is a pretty tasty skill set here.

That being said? it's a fine line between swagger and asshole. Britt walks that every day. He also loses his concentration from time to time. And his agility? It's meager at best. So, there just might be those days where he'll go out and get 2 catches for 3 yards.

A potential high reward player with good athleticism despite his mediocre timed speed and unrelaible hands and the diva mentality of many #1 receivers? I wonder if his build reminds you of anybody? Tell you what? I will give you two sets of line breaks and ellipsis to for you to think of a name.

...

...

I say Braylon Edwards clone. What say you?


7. Brian Robiskie Ohio State
6'3" 209 4.46

When it comes down to it? Robiskie has the little things down cold. He does not waste movement on his routes. He finds the openings on zones. And he has the hands to pluck and high point the ball out of the air. He will block and give every effort on every play.

But Ohio State has a notoriously fast track. That 4.46 is not his real football speed. He's never going to be spectacular vertically. And in terms of the elusive question? He's not great at that either. A fast defensive back can get him from behind.

However? He does have a strong skill set. His father is a wide receiver coach. And he's learned all the little things from him. And he has the work ethic to polish his strengths into finely honed skills. There's a lot of Hines Ward to his game, and he has a strong chance to touch that ceiling.


8. Juaquin Iglesias Oklahoma
6'1" 210 4.44

You want someone to get dirty going over the middle? You want Iglesias. He also has top-notch hands and he can make defenders miss in the short areas of the field. He makes fast cuts and his catch radius? It's very nice. And if necessary? You can stick him on special teams and have him return a punt or a kick or two.

But like Robiskie? His 40-time does not match his actual time. His seperation skills are inconsistent. And he does not have the burst to go vertical. And for a dude this size? Getting himself knocked off the line is not something that you should have happen.

But that being said? He has the potential to be more than a mere posession receiver. A west coast offense will love him. An offense that relies on slants, digs and run after the catch? They will love him. If the Pack didn't have 27 receivers? He'd be a perfect fit.


9. Mohamed Massaquoi Georgia
6'1" 210 4.60

Never mind the timed speed, he has great athleticism and good football speed. He generates a good release, and with sharp route running and an ability to find zone seams? He is excellent at getting open. He is a ready and willing blocker and he does have a good catch radius.

But he has bad hands. It does not matter about production (though with the #1 pick throwing you passes?) and elusiveness after the catch. He has bad hands. Charatcer is not so much of a concern either. HE HAS BAD HANDS!

If he had hands, you could put them up in the Maclin-Bey class of draft. Because in every aspect, he's kind of good. That being said? Some team may be making a mistake here. My thoughts on Matt Stafford are shifting because of the skills of Massaquoi. Unless he learns the ways of Featherstone? He'll be just another Fred Gibson.

Now, receiver sleepers are multiple and plentiful. Trust that I have posted more about these pass catchers. Jarrett Dillard is gonna be a steal. Trust me.

Reach Out and Touch Faith (NFL Draft Early Entry Breakdown)

Like many on Earth? I consider myself to be a draft expert. But unlike many on Earth? You know what I can do? I can bring the draft thunder for for free.

And I do bring the draft thunder. Just watch.

Asher Allen CB Georgia: As cornerbacks go? He's not a bad prospect. He is like a Georgia corner in that his is not the exact size that you want, but Asher Allen does have a solid physicality and is more than willing to press you within 5 yards. He also has good enough athleticism to return punts and kicks. He probably could have been a first rounder next year, but he has the mentality to be a successful pro.
Chris Baker DT Hampton: An ex-Nittany Lion character risk. He killed the MEAC like any draftable dude at a lower level should. He's 6'2", 298. He has all the on-field tools to be spectacular as a one-gap defensive tackle, if he can get the fuck out of his head. The Cincinatti Bengals will draft him on day 2. What?
Kenny Britt WR Rutgers: If you want comparisons? Braylon Edwards. He is big and quick, but not explosive. Both are physical receivers. Both have shown an ability to make the tough catch. Now, the dropsies are in full effect for Braylon, but Kenny Britt has that same sort of concentration issues. Be careful.
Eben Britton OT Arizona: Here's another potential elevator man. You haven't heard of him right? Well, you will. He's an excellent athlete for a left tackle. As a pass blocker? He's a 9. In space? He's a 7. He's just not great as a big on big or a stunt and wide rush scenario. But can he learn? You bet your ass he can.
Donald Brown RB Connecticut: There is a good chance at a Matt Forte comparison here. Let me tell you why. One, they are both solidly built one-cut runners. Two, they both have great quickness that belie their 40 time. Three, they both are underrated passcatchers. (Even if I'm a better quarterback than Tyler Lorenzen.) Four, they both played against lesser competition. The one difference? Three inches.
Everette Brown DE Florida State: You ever go to a dollar tree and find an off-brand something or another, and you look at the Schmony Headphones and decide I'll take a shot? That's Everette Brown. He's an off brand Aaron Maybin. Or Maybin is an off brand Brown. But the scouting report (undersized DE with good speed) is very similar.
James Casey TE Rice: You want versatility? You want potential hyperproductivity? You want a potential Frank Wycheck? James Casey has played up to seven positions in a game at Rice. He also had 100+ catches as a receiver. He also played at a lower level and is an overaged sophomore. But my gut, such as it is, says yes he can.
Jeremy Childs WR Boise State: He has decent skills to be an off-brand McCaffrey. Well, in that his biggest strength is his hands. He has hands of a gluish nature. The question will be his 40-time. A bad 40 time and you can just forget about him. I mean it. He will be gone.
Glen Coffee RB Alabama: He has an interesting mix. Decent size and good speed. But he can run between the tackles. He came up big this year. Because Mark Ingram is also a Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer, he won't make the first round. That doesn't mean fail. That just means intrigue for the early part of Day 2.
Austin Collie WR BYU: Collie is a hyperproductive receiver who is overaged. He does have quickness and run precise routes. And he has hands that pluck the ball out of the air. If you will allow me to indulge my homeristic fears? Him being the Packers 3rd round pick for Brett Favre would put me on lifetilt.
Emanuel Cook S South Carolina: Emanuel has the look of a taller Bob Sanders. The timed speed is a touch under 4.5. He hits hard, but he will avoid the KTFO shot to make sure he gets the tackle. And for the Gamecocks, he was among the leading tacklers. He may be undersized to be a great cover guy, but that being said? There's a lot to like here.
Jared Cook TE South Carolina: Are you looking for a Dustin Keller sort of upside? Are you looking for it in a tight end who could get lost in the shuffle? Jared Cook has that sort of upside. Why? A rumored 4.38 40 with good hands and seam stretching capabilities. Why may he not climb? If Travis Beckum comes back strong in combines and workouts? He vaults him. Also? Having every second tier quarterback Spurrier could recruit is hazardous to a receivers draft status.
Michael Crabtree WR Texas Tech: Crabtree is ready to be a pro. While he is not going to grow up to be Randy Moss with the timed speed? He has great hands, he will make the clutch catch, runs great routes and can get open deep. Also? This season came up with a bad foot. And never mind the system receiver tag. Texas Tech has some very West Coast offense principles. Call it a Barbary Coast Offense. People are just worried because he's not tiny and quick.
Andrew Davie TE Arkansas: I guess he couldn't abide transferring, because this is a back-up. He's got run blocking skills, and his hands are underrated. (Some would say clutch 8 catches: 3 scores.) But he's an unknown, unkown, and in a year where even if Jermaine Gresham won't declare, the Y-Kung Fu is strong? He would need to flip into Mike Mamula mode on combine day.
Nate Davis QB Ball State: Made a mistake here. Because right now there are more juniors leaving than returning, so a decent season and osmosis would improve his draft grade alone. That being said? For poor footwork and a wonky delivery, he manages to get his throws with strength and accuracy. He could be really good, but he lost money by going.
Vontae Davis CB Illinois: He has all the physical gifts to be spectacular. He has a great ability to see the ball in the air, and because he has such great closing speed, his gambling fails can be made up. He can also be a good swiss army knife on special teams and a weakside corner blitz. He could be a top 10 pick by April. (Hint, hint home team.)
Maurice Evans DE Penn State: He is one of the players for whom character is definitely an issue, as he was suspended three games and had Aaron Maybin steal his thunder. That being said? If you can get the light turned on, you could have a steal. His size-speed ratio is excellent, and he does have a good motor. It's just that in this day and age, he won't get many chances to salvage his stock.
Ricky Jean-Francois DT LSU: Do you want someone who is a more athletic Glenn Dorsey type who has absolutely none of the heart or killer instinct? Then you want Ricky Jean-Francois! You think I'm being mean? He was the guy who DNP'ed after he called out Tebow. No heart. No balls.
Josh Freeman QB Kansas St.: Josh Freeman is reminiscent of Daunte Culpepper coming out of college. But Freeman may have a slightly better physical gift set. He's 6'6", 250 with a rocket arm and mobility. The problem? He wasn't great with the completions. Sure, his supporting cast isn't great. But he's relied on his athleticism throughout college. He's starting with late 2nd round value. Look for it to climb. That may not be a good thing.
Mike Goodson RB Texas A&M: It's up or out for him. He had a bad 2008, and the academics and depth chart mean 2009 is made of being bad for him in College Station. He has the Michael Bennett/Trung Candidate skill set. His 40-time will likely get him drafted, but he does not have the East/West agility of a man who will last longer in the league.
Shonn Greene RB Iowa: It's a Big 10 running back, so instantly, you have some concerns. But there is a lot to like here. He did not have the shit beaten out of him like a Ron Dayne did. He was consistent. He was productive. He does have the power to break through arm tackles and he has good vision. He does give off a good Marion Barber vibe. He has a second round grade, but he may be a 4th round steal.
Greg Hardy DE Ole Miss: If his seeming character issues get in the way? He could slide. However? His pass-rushing skills are spectacular. He has speed and strength. And the motor. Dear sweet god, the motor. And he does play big in big games. He could be a DeMarcus Ware upside your head. UPDATE: But questions about his foot mean that he will be DeMarcus Ware upside your head in 2010.
Brian Hartline WR Ohio State: He's a white. White receiver! And he comes with everything that the white receiver. Psyche. Sure, he is a tall posession receiver. But he does have a certain quickness that allowed him to return kicks. He is also rather quotable, not in the way of a Dugout-ized Jim Thome, but in a way that he shall endear himself to no one.
Percy Harvin WR Florida: His speed is supernatural. He just might be faster than Jeremy Maclin. In space? He is a challenge to bring down. You can use him as a way to spell a big back because he also has running back skills. You can't press him, and his hands are solid. So why could he be available for a playoff team? He is a magnet for the nagging injury.
Darius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland: Now, it's awfully hard to be consistent when you have such ridiculously bad quarterback play. But he is a very physical athlete who runs crisp routes and posesses good hands and the vision to adjust to a poorly thrown ball (See: This season.) He also can go deep if he busts press coverage. Believe in the marriage of Ironhead and Richard Bey.
P.J. Hill RB Wisconsin: The body of Jerome Bettis, the brain of DeShawn Wynn. He has thick legs and solid quickness and agility. However? He will not lower his shoulder and if you hit him, you can push him back. He is also injury-prone. He's Najeh Davenport without the humorous crimes and awesome 40-time.
Greg Isdaner OG West Virginia: Sitting in an angry chair, on runs he can kick ass like no one else. That means, big on big in a phone booth? He's a 10. On a pull or to get to the second level? Seven. Pass blocking? About a three.
Reshad Jones S Georgia: The history of Gerorgia Safety's with the Surname Jones is one with good success in the NFL. Thomas Jones is a big safety with a specialty in the Killshot, who is aloso named Davis, thereby ruining this whole analysis. Sean Jones is productive because the Cleveland front seven sucks. As for Reshad? His game is very much like Sean's. Not great speed. But he has good power and he can support the run. Yes. Reshad Jones is an awesome safety...in the box. UPDATE: We have a flip-flopper.
Paul Kreuger DE Utah: He looks like he could be cast as the asshole teen movie villain's best friend. But seriously, when not telling Johnny to get him a bodybag? He has a great pass-rush ability and a good motor. He's strong at the point of attack, but he may yet be better as yet another 3-4 OLB. Really? Yes really.
Brandon LeFell WR LSU: He is kind of a rawer version of the LSU receiver archetype. He's tall, he is a lot more quick than fast. He has great hands, and he has a 50-50 chance of being a bust. Suffice it to say, a senior year with a competent quarterback could have done wonders with his stock.
Jeremy Maclin WR Missouri: Jeremy Maclin is made of home run threat. Sure, his receiving skills lack that certain polish. But he just knows how to get seperation. And any time he touches the ball, be it from return, rush, or passcatch? He can score. He does have the desire to improve, but any team that drafts him does need to take a longer view for if or when he becomes a great passcatcher.
Sen'Derrick Marks DT Auburn: If you have a cover 2 scheme? This is a defensive tackle you're looking for. He plays hard, he plays low, and he has the strength and hand movement for good penetration. However? He is a tad undersized, and may not even play at his listed weight. But if you have a cover two or maybe a one gap scheme? It may not matter.
Brandon Mason RB Stony Brook: I have to ask. Does he blame Joe Flacco for his state of affairs? They both transferred to Delaware in 2006, but while Flacco became a first-rounder, Mason was forced to transfer down to the Seawolves. He did well in limited action in 2007. But missed 2008 with a knee injury. So? What we have here is a runner with decent triangle numbers but no real in-game action. Enjoy training camp, dude.
Aaron Maybin DE Penn State: For a 240 pound redshirt sophomore, the weaknesses are obvious. But as a pass-rusher? He is a master at the speed rush. He does have an excellent ratio of size, speed, and strength. He could become a spectacular 3-4 OLB. Or he could become a Kabeer Gbaja-Bilamila-Dwight Freeney type.
LeSean McCoy RB Pittsburgh: There is a lot to like here. He was the focal point of Pittsburgh offense, but not to such a point where he was beaten to death. He has quick feet and excellent agility. He can be a good pass-catcher out of the backfield. The reason why he falls off the pace? He's an east-west dancer. If he had a bit of Maurice Jones-Drew? He wouldn't grade out as a 1st-2nd round tweener.
Gerald McRath LB Southern Mississippi: An undersized linebacker, he does have the wheels to make plays in coverage and can cover from sideline to sideline. That being said? If he gets blocked. He stays blocked. And he will not exactly be a great run stuffer and he may not be special on the special teams. He needs a good workout. He needs one bad.
Andrew Means WR Indiana: He has dreams of Bo Jackson and Deion. He is a much better baseball prospect who's looking to take a flier at football drafting. But he does not have world class athleticism that a football team would be willing to chance. Thus, look for him on Baseball America.
D.J. Moore CB Vanderbilt: What D.J. Moore is? A tall Terrell Buckley. He has the ability to cover, and he has great athleticism. He has the ability to be a swiss army knife with pass-catching and returns. That being said? Michael Crabtree (and other big physical receivers) will own him. He'll have a long, solid career.
Knowshon Moreno RB Georgia: He is a human highlight film when he runs with the ball. He has great vision. He has excellent balance. And ask Central Michigan about his jumping ability. But he may not be another Barry Sanders. Why? He isn't all about the avoiding the contact. For a 207 pound non-workhorse? That is no bueno.
Captain Munnerlyn CB South Carolina: The Captain is undersized, sure. But he plays with a chip on his shoulder. He has swivel hips and he can make a spectacular cover corner. The only problem? Immaturity. He waxed and waned as a junior. And his technique is not perfect. If he avoids acting a fool? He's got Aaron Glenn in him.
Hakeem Nicks WR North Carolina: He stepped up huge when Brandon Tate went down. But his athleticism is in question. (Yes, really.) He's McCaffreyian in both skill and ethic. He makes catches. He is big in the red zone. And his hand fightings? Brutal.
Kevin Olgetree WR Virginia: His statistics were pretty good for a team that was led by Cedric Peerman. Why could he be a sleeper? The knee injury rebound theory. He was gone for all of 2007, and bounced back to decent this year. With his good route-running and sure-handedness, all he has to do is get stronger. Do not ignore him completely yet.
Jerraud Powers CB Auburn: Undersized? Yes. But he's got the ability to make plays. He covers with some aplomb. But his big strength? Oddly enough, it's his runstuffing. He'll stick his head in there. Expect him in the middle rounds. Some team will love him as a gunner.
Mark Sanchez QB USC: Canny maneuvering aside. There is reason to like Mark Sanchez. Not because he went to USC. USC's batting .500 currently in terms of reasonable success. A cannon arm does not mean success either. But based on footwork and mechanics? There is an excellent chance of success for Sanchez. He is not a perfectly polished pro prospect. But any competent quarterback coach can have him ready for war by Year 3.
Andre Smith OT Alabama: The only issue with Andre Smith is is hunger. Not hunger in as much as desire. Hunger in as much as he would have a meal of a box of snicker doodles, a sub sandwich, a McDonald's Extra Value Meal, a milkshake, a bag of pretzels dipped in French onion dip, and crab legs. Mmm... Anyway, if he doesn't eat himself to the power side? He's a prototypical left tackle.
Sean Smith CB Utah: May have made himself millions by putting a beatdown on Julio Jones. Also. He is rangy. He is cornerback large. He could be a press corner or? He could turn into Eric Weddle. Sean Smith breaks as good of a 40-time as he says he wants to? He may turn into a whole lot more.
Matt Stafford QB Georgia: If there is ever a sentence that could put the fear of God into a team, it is this. Matt Stafford can turn into a stronger armed Joey Harrington. Why? Both lacked consistency in their footwork and accuracy coming out. And of the things that could lead a quarterback into bust city? Accuracy and footwork are two of the strongest indicators.
Donald Washington CB Ohio State: Being as he is the Andrew Ridgeley to Malcolm Jenkins George Michael? You might look crossly at him for his early exit. Don't. He has the requisite above average athleticism, and he has the savvy to pick things up with all deliberate speed. And with a nascent ballhawk and no fear having to be the man who beats the man? This is a Day 2 prospect who could go all Dwight Lowery on your ass.
Chris Wells RB Ohio State: Chris Wells is a powerful inside runner. Chris Wells has a strong stiff arm. Chris Wells has excellent speed for a big back. Chris Wells is a Big Ten back, so none of that matters. He'll be a late 1st rounder. Mendenhall style.
Brandon Williams DE Texas Tech: Oh look, it's a rush end. But it's with a twist. He has the requisite strength and motor. But instead of athleticism, he is built on grit. (And yes, that means he is a slow white guy. KIDDING!) If he times well? Then maybe we can talk about this guy as more than a one-year special teamer. If not? Move along.
James Williams CB Southern Connecticut: He actually does exist. It's true. But is he dumb? He's a redshirt junior from a Division II School. What do you think? He didn't even come close to dominating either. Get hyped for 3 picks and NINE passes defended. He's going to go undrafted. And he's gonna work at a local fast food restaurant.

See? Thunder...brought. Now you have a fresh look at all the underclassmen in the draft. It is awesome. And you are welcome.

UPDATE: Jairus Byrd CB Oregon: He has declared himself to go pro, and if you're looking for a safety? This may be the man you want. He was highly productive at cornerback for the Ducks these past two seasons. That being said? He does not seem to be more than okay at cornerback. His timed speed is above 4.5, and decent receivers can beat him deep. At free safety? That may not matter.

UPDATE II: Snarky comments aside, and my love of the question mark as well, I would like to thank David Hale for his link. And I will further clarify my belief for the Dawgs Prospects.

Stafford: He will be drafted in the first round, he probably needs to go to a team with a stopgap starter in place to achieve optimal success, even if all the skills are there. He's not all the way there yet. And I saw him drafted as a Lion.
Moreno: It probably doesn't matter that he hasn't carried 250 times, with the way teams are moving toward a two-back system. And if he gets to a team where he can play dash to a smasher? He will be spectacular. He just needs to learn the simple skill of avoiding contact.
Allen: Sleepers excite me. I apologize for that. He will be drafted in the third or fourth round. And at that point, he will be at a great value.

You think that this Bowl Season is going to suck?

Wrong. It's only lulling you to sleep. It wants to surprise you with awesome. It is, after all, the holiday season. College Football has some gifts to bring.

Parum pum. I am going to bring you reasons to care about every bowl game. You can find love in every bowl game. Or at the very least I am going to strive for it.

I can find love everywhere.

EagleBank Bowl
Wake Forest vs. Navy

Like the #1 song in my iPod, Navy loves the run. They are one of the few teams that will likely end the season with dual weapons of thousand yard thunder in Shaun White and Eric Kettani. And with Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada? There could be a triumverate of hundred yard rushers if everything breaks right.

Wake Forest does have a tough defense, so shooting the moon might not happen. But when a nomenclaturologist such as myself still looks at Wake Forest and sees names like Brandon Pendergrass and Sam Swank as the best parts of Wake Forest? There may be a 10 win season in Navy's future. Even despite Aaron Curry.

New Mexico
Colorado State vs. Fresno State

The Colorado State Rams were made of adversity in 2007. And that was supposed to be an experienced team. Way back when, I made mention of Kory Sperry having to deal with a potential 0-12 season. I was glad to be wrong. They have Dion Morton and Rashaun Greer as a great passcatching trio.

But suffice it to say, you have two teams with solid passing offenses and poor skills on defense (Fresno State can't ballhawk, and Colorado State can't rush the passer). You look like you're going to have a shootout. Shootouts are made of awesome.

magicJack St. Petersburg
Memphis vs. South Florida

Now Jim Leavitt should win this game. He really should. They have the best players on both sides of the ball. Matt Groethe and George Selvie. And they are both still awesome, despite the statistical falloff.

However? Memphis has the momentum and the swagger of the Comic Book Villain Named Arkelon Hall. He's built to last, even despite his injury. But he's not the reason why Memphis can win. That belongs to Steel. Curtis Steele. He's the best running back since DeAngelo.

Pioneer Las Vegas
BYU vs. Arizona

If you grow up in the days and nights of the Destert Swarm defense? This would be a shock to you. Their game is almost solely based on its offensive appeal. Willie Tuitama is a pretty good thrower. Nic Grigsby is the frontman runner, but Keola Antolin is the senastional freshman. And Rob Gronkowski managed 10 scores in 9 healthy games.

The defense may be not be bad, but away from Arizona? It's shaky. And with a Max Hall-Harvey Unga-Austin Collie triplet formation? There could be blood in this game. There could also be 70 points. But there will be The Hoff!

R+L Carriers New Orleans
Southern Miss vs. Troy

Southern Miss is awesome based on momentum and freshman sensationalism. They've won their last four games atarting with a 70-14 beatdown on UAB, with the defense doing the lion's share of the work. That being said? DeAndre Brown qualified academically. He is 6'6" of destructicity. And with Austin Davis, they've got a shot at being deadly by 2011.

Troy, on the other hand, just might have a seasonal jinx by playing in Louisiana. They got beaten in Monroe because a 56-yard desperation field goal just didn't have the extra oomph. And they lost to LSU after holding a 3rd quarter 31-3 lead. They also have Levi Brown as a scrappy former Richmond transfer. And DuJuan Harris is an adorably tiny 1,000 yard rusher.

San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia
Boise State vs. TCU

This game needs no explanation. This is the lost BCS game. I mean, both Boise State and TCU have a higher level of gravitas than Virginia Tech and Cincinatti. That being said?

TCU's defensive skills can be sufficiently deeped as mad. Ian Johnson and Jeremy Avery are going to have a long day. TCU's run skills are the best in the nation. Best in the nation by far. And Kellen Moore may be skilled, but he is a freshman. Jerry Hughes could get in his head.

However? Chris Peterson is the best coach who is comfortable in the Mid-Majors. He will probably unleash some trickery to keep TCU from overpursuit. And while TCU's #2 in scoring defense and #1 against the Run, Boise State's defense is stout as well. They could very well grab a pick six. Some would say this will be high scoring. I'm not so sure.

Sheraton Hawaii
Hawaii vs. Notre Dame

Yeech. Notre Dame has no offense. Hawaii's line is troublesome. It's Chistmas Eve anyway. This one is the shittake mushroom growing kit that my mom got me.

Motor City
Florida Atlantic vs. Central Michigan

The quarterbackery. By god. You want to see two of the best non-BCS quarterbacks? Come to Detroit. Dan LeFevour missed some time this year due to injury, and while Brian Brunner is a step down? He still has skills to start for many decent developing Division 1 football teams.

And while Rusty Smith fell off from his sophomore year? He destroyed November. 14 scores to 3 picks? That's a beautiful ratio. I know. This is a long shot game between the 4th place team in the Sun Belt and the third best team in the MAC. But the fact is this has the potential to be a Leftwich vs. Garrard sort of classic. Except for, you know. Black people.

Meineke Car Care
West Virginia vs. North Carolina

Obviously, this is Pat White's final game as a quarterback. And while Bill Stewart hasn't lead this team in the right direction, Pat White has been spectacular in the 11 games that he's played. And Noel Devine has done nothing to refute the claim that he could be a rich man's Steve Slaton.

Now the Tar Heels are not the same team as they would have been had Brandon Tate stayed healthy. But that's not to say that C.J. Yates and Cameron Sexton weren't servicable despite really only having Hakeem Nicks to throw the ball to. But Shaun Draughn is decent running the ball, and Ryan Houston will bring the thunder when called upon, but the defense is going to have to bring the thunder if they are gonna get the duke.

Champs Sports
Wisconsin vs. Florida State

I'm not going to lie to you. This could be ugly. Christian Ponder has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns. Dustin Sherer thrown the same amount of picks to touchdowns. Neither team has a spectacular and consistent receiver. (Though Harry Gilreath has made big plays and Greg Carr has the build to make some.)

And while Antone Smith, Jon Clay, and P.J. Hill are a trio of great running backs, both teams are hovering around the top third in terms of run stopping. So where's the love? The secondary. Myron Rolle is the would be Rhodes Scholar for the Noles. Jay Valai is the would be Bob Sanders for the Badgers.

Emerald
Miami (Fla.) vs. California

As momentum goes? Jahvid Best has it. 11.9 yards per carry and eight scores in his last three games. Him and Shonn Greene are going to have themselves an outsider Heisman running back candidates dream ticket next year. That being said? The Miami defensive line has allowed 691 yards in his last two games. This means Jahvid Best could be one very golden pony boy.

However? Miami is built on youth. And while they seem to have hit the wall in those last two games. There could be a bounceback for the Hurricanes. At least on the defensive side of the ball. And with an injury-riddled O-line for Cal? Alex Mack may be alone with his secret files.

Independence
Northern Illinois vs. Louisiana Tech

Larry English is a bad man. He's the current active sack leader for the Huskies and will get at least one TFL in every game. His is the face of Derek Dooley's nightmares. And add to that Chandler Harnish's dual threat magic? And you have a team that has swagger for being .500

But don't disrespect the Bulldogs. Daniel Porter has a Maurice Jones-Drew swagger and style about him. Phillip Livas is a big play threat as a retrurner and a pass catcher. And as it turned out, Louisiana Tech ended up Crooming the Croomer. They will slap your face if you disrecpect them.

Papajohns.com
NC State vs. Rutgers

The two hottest mediocre teams clash here. NC State has won 4 games in a row to get bowl eligible. Rutgers is one of only seven teams to make a bowl off of a 1-5 start. So you know, momentum, and something's gotta give. We get it.

Why we're here is not because of Mike Teel to Kenny Britt, though they are the magic and mystique of the Scarlet Knights. Were here for Russell Wilson. Wilson is in the lead to be the next Pat White. He has a remarkable 16/1 TD-INT ratio and good run skills, though he doesn't need to carry the day toting the rock.

Valero Alamo
Missouri vs. Northwestern

The expectation is that Missouri is going to administer some frontier justice upon the roody poot candy ass braniacs of Northwestern. After all? They still have Chase Daniel to Jeremy Maclin. Not to mention Derrick Washington's 17 touchdowns and the other Chase in Columbia. Their offense is still superpowered. And Northwestern may be beat down and beat down hard.

That being said? Northwestern does have a punchers chance. They did lead the Big 10 in Sacks, and Corey Wooton is someone that you absolutely have to double. They get to Chase Daniel enough to force a mistake or three? And they can rely on awesome running back Tyrell Sutton. The Alamo Bowl has had it's share of upsets, and Northwestern could get one here.

Roady's Humanitarian
Maryland vs. Nevada

In the bowl game nobody wants to go to, the Titan of Turlock wants the scalp of the Fridge. Like last years emergence of the nuclear powered Dan LeFevour, Colin Kaepernick was the dual threat who had the skills to pay the bills. 3594 total yards and 35 scores. And him to Vai "The Sikahema" Taua, and you have a running game that's vibrant and youthful and will be a real threat out of the pistol.

And why can Nevada win? Because Nevada can be thrown on, but Chris Turner might not be able to turn that to his advantage. He got sacked a lot as the regular season ended. And Nevada can pass rush very well. And stuff the run. If Da' Rel Scott can't get untracked? The Fridge may have a long cold day to wash down with chili cheddar fries.

Texas
Western Michigan vs. Rice

This game just might be a tough one. Rice has home-field advantage, Chase Clement to Jarrett Dillard, and a six game winning streak. They are going up against a team that has a bottom third pass defense. So it looks strong for Rice, am I right?

Wrong. Tim Hiller may be stealthy in the Drew Willy-Nate Davis led MAC quarterback class, but he's got a nice season going. He's made Jamarko Simmons a stud, and while the Broncos may only have a punchers chance here, but it's a real one.

Pacific Life Holiday
Oklahoma State vs. Oregon

There's a definite shot at 100 points combined here. Neither team can stop the pass. That makes a "Holiday, Celebrate" BYU-Penn State shootout very likely.

Chip Kelly has a hyperactive running game. 28 rushing touchdowns. Jeremiah Johnson and LaGarrette (yes, I spelled that correctly) Blount are the college equivalent of the great professional tag teams. It's unbalanced, but it's awesome unbalanced.

Oklahoma State has the triplets. Zac Robinson is the dual threat quarterback. Kendall Hunter is the runner who will likely be a Vernand Morency sized bust in the pros. And Dez Bryant? He's got 18 scores.

Bell Helicopter Armed Forces
Houston vs. Air Force

Air Force is rocking the triple option to peak prefection. At least they did when last they played Houston. But Case Keenum almost managed to bring them all the way back. Case Keenum is the frontman for the #1 passing offense in all of football. There are seven receivers who have averaged at least two catches a game. The sleeper? L.J. Castile. He's a deep threat.

But they are not good against the run. That is why Air Force can do it to it. They have an almost interchangable array of runners who you can just plug in and watch them go. Shea Smith and Tim Jefferson are both built to option. And if they can keep answering? This should be fun.

Brut Sun
Oregon State vs. Pittsburgh

The Beavers and the Panthers both enjoy the services of young buck running back studs. LeSean McCoy ran for 21 touchdowns this year and runs with the power of Moljinir when he touches the ball. Jacquizz Rodgers is a delightfully tiny runner who stormed onto the scene to crush USC's dreams of a national championship, thereby endearing himself to America.

So what's the differences? Sammie Stroughter is the Pac-10 leader in receiving yards. Lyle Moveao has that advantage going for him, especially versus a pretty stout defense led by Scott McKillop. The Panthers? They don't have a passing weapon in their pocket. But LeSean McCoy just night be all they need.

Gaylord Hotels Music City
Boston College vs. Vanderbilt

This is a one paragrapher. Offense is fun. Superstars are fun. Tiny running backs, white receivers, and fat coaches are fun. None of them come up in spades in this one. Vanderbilt can't pass, and Boston College loves to ballhawk. Skip it. Watch the Faberge people get jealous over the running duel Sun Bowl.

Insight
Kansas vs. Minnesota

Mark Mangino football is nothing if not good times and great memories. Mangino goes without saying. Todd Reesing is an excellent quarterback, and if being third in receptions in the Big 12 can't get you to love Kerry Meier. I will dust off this old photo.



See? Kansas football is freaking adorable.

As for Minnesota? This is for White Power Bill and Heath Campbell. Minnesota was the first team to have an African-American take the team to a National Championship. But never mind that. This passing team's two leading receivers? Eric Decker and Ben Kuznia? They're Ed McCaffrey colored! OMG!

Chick-fil-A
LSU vs. Georgia Tech

The pick six is the most exciting play in football. And Jarrett Lee, in providing his service as a balancing force in college football? He has proven himself to be a master of the returned errant toss. And with a front four as stout as your Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets? A pick can be thrown. The last bit of justicical balance.

As for Gerogia Tech? Triple Option! The only BCS team with the intestinal fortitude to belly the ball into the fullback on more than one occasion. Now while Jonathan Dwyer is the man who will get the bulk of the action, my favorite is Roddy Jones. He grew up in Stone Mountain, Georgia. It makes a man tough. Believe me.

Outback
South Carolina vs. Iowa

Every time I can, I like to make mention of how WWE announcer Jim Ross' major catchphrases were creatively purloined from former Iowa coach Hayden Fry. Now, considering that this may be the first you've heard of it. Hayden Fry made famous the phrase "Buh Gawd, it's gonna be a slobberknocker!"

And that's why we're here. If the educated feet of Shonn Greene can make certain business is about to pick up? Then this slobberknocker between two well regarded defenses has the potential to turn bowling shoe ugly. STONE COLD! STONE COLD! STONE COLD!

Capital One
Georgia vs. Michigan State

Even though I will likely misspell his name, the immortal Knowshon Moreno is a man among boys, even if other elements of the team fell flat on their face this season. Moreno was the master of highlight reel moves. But while Georgia has been mediocre for this season. They have a shot at the destruction of Michigan State. Why?

Personnel-wise, I would put them up there with the Penn States, the Ohio States. You can see they have talent. We definitely have our work cut out for us.

That was from Brian Hoyer. Michigan State has been a Javon Ringer Army this entire season. If he's already shook by the Georgia Bulldogs? Then this could get out of hand real quick like.

Konica Minolta Gator
Nebraska vs. Clemson

I have to admit, I was wrong about Joe Ganz. He is not merely a mythical creature who feasted on second and third team defenses of the Big 12 North. He is a real professional college quarterback. And he could give the Huskers one last new years treat.

Because while on paper, Clemson is a special team. On the field? The consistency is lacking.

Sure, Dabo Swinney has an awesome first name and an ability to get his team together. But let's be honest. Cullen Harper will be a problem. He has weapons. But he's lost himself millions of dollars with his performance this season. And that is why Dabo will be better next season with Willy Korn.

(Willy Korn).

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi
Penn State vs. USC

USC is boring. USC is spectacular. But they are boring. Never mind the inspiring story of Joe McKnight. This is a very boring good team that gets entirely too much love from ESPN. I wish I could find something to love about ol' SC. I just can't. Besides Joe McKnight.

Reasons to love Penn State. One, Joe Paterno's acting from his bowels on the Big 10 Network football commercial. Two, Derrick Williams. He's just awesome. Three, Aaron Maybin leads a defense that will keep the game close. There's hope for Nittany Nation, even if the expectation is something else entirely.

FedEx Orange
Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech

Beamer Ball is always one of the most enjoyable aspects of College Football. A quicksilver running quarterback like Tyrod Taylor is quite tantalizing as well. That being said? They are a team that's highly tantalizing and they can never seem to put it all the way together. They are a microchasm of my life.

Cincinnati has a football swagger developing under Brian Kelly. They can lose twenty-three quarterbacks. No problem. UConn can whip them. They come back. Tony Pike has two good receivers to throw to. But Marshawn Gilyard is the man, the myth, and the legend. Drunken fraternity brothers and Cincy are trying to get run over by him. Getting run over means being consoled by a comely lass.


Comely Lass!

AT&T Cotton
Ole Miss vs. Texas Tech

I wish I could say I like Ole Miss. Not to say that Ole Miss is a team without adorable talents in Jevan Snead and Michael Oher, among others. And everybody loves Houston Nutt. But you know, if they just could have lost to Florida. Then Tim Tebow wouldn't have had that press conference. Bah.

The T-squared experience is obvious. It's cool. You know why you like them. In case you don't? Graham Harrell is a bad ass. His #1 receiver, Michael Crabtree? Also awesome. Mike Leach? He's like Tony Siragusa's more successful and infinitely less annoying brother. They're gold with the guns up.

AutoZone Liberty
Kentucky vs. East Carolina

Yeah. I admitted Skip Holtz was a good coach before the season started. Do I really have to make him the reason why East Carolina is a good game? After the first two weeks of the season, I was sick of him. No. No I don't.

Because Kentucky's all-purpose sensation Randall Cobb went down to a knee injury against Tennessee and is out for the bowl game, I can make East Carolina freshman sensation Emmanuel Davis my pick to click. Because he's a ballhawk, see. And ballhawks are awesome.

Is it unfair to Kentucky? Yeah. But they've had really bad luck this season. Dicky Lyons' career ended. Mike Hartline has little to no dynamism. They're stumbling to Memphis. It's a passable defense, but there's not much O for Big Blue right now.

Allstate Sugar
Utah vs. Alabama

Utah was able to manage a very stern test from TCU, but they have never seen a man like Terrence Cody. He's a man mountain space eater who makes Rolando McClain a very active downhill threat at linebacker. And lest we forget Glen Coffee and Mark Ingram running behind a very experienced line.

But if Utah's line can keep Brian Johnson ambulatory? Then you cannot discount the chances of the Utes. Matt Asiata is a thumper back. And Freddie Brown is my favorite athlete name that I will never use in a screenplay. I want to see an upset. Everybody does. Go for it Utes!

International
Buffalo vs. Connecticut

For the UConn fan who may not have been able to make the leap, I'll tell you this. While their passing game is a comedy joke, Donald Brown is the truth, even if he won't go pro this season. (Financial Mistake). And even if Moe Petrus is the only person with major honors. They will provide a defensive test.

And for the 50th anniversary of the boycott of the Tangerine Bowl, Buffalo has an offense that can score points almost at will. Drew Willy is going to be on an NFL roster next season. James Starks is a running back with style and grace. And Naaman Roosevelt? He is a local boy making good this season.

Tostitos Fiesta
Ohio State vs. Texas

This game could get boring. Both teams are great at tamping down scoring. This game could get ugly. Ohio State has not done well offensively when faced with a team with any sort of talent, and Colt McCoy's got plenty of weapons.

Not to say that Terrelle Pryor is a special little snowflake. Not to say that Beanie Wells can't run the ball with dynamic power. But you know what? We want you to lose. America wants you to lose badly. You stole from Boise State.

...Texas is the less Evil Empire in a big game again.

GMAC
Ball State vs. Tulsa

The weirdo raper guy that is Todd Graham has the Golden Hurricane in good stead as this game doesn't need a bailout to help it be awesome!

...sorry. Put it this way? You have a team with no qualms about running up the score with a balanced breakfast of David Johnson as a thrower and Tarrion Lewis as a runner who is coming in with a minimal amount of momentum. Brennan Marion is a home run threat of the highest order. This is a team not to take lightly.

But Ball State cannot be called chopped liver. They can run as well as gun. MiQuale Lewis is a tiny man with superpowered rushing. And Nate Davis isn't going to go out like he did versus your Buffalo Bulls. This is going to be an offensive classic. Could we see 100? Yes.

FedEx BCS National Championship Game
Florida vs. Oklahoma

I talked with Gary Danielson about the National Championship game. He said "Tim Tebow's tears can cure cancer. I touched the podium after his press conference after he lost to Ole Miss, did you know he had a press conference after he lost to Ole Miss. he promised that he wasn't gonna lose again and he hasn't since, it's as if people didn't know Jerome Bettis was from Detroit or something. Anyway, I never felt better after my hand touched the podium. The Tebow is good the Tebow is great, I surrendered my will long before this date."

Okay. Billy Sims apologized. But if Drunky McNoknees had any sense at all? He would have never said anything. I mean, they weren't at the Oklahoma Football Team Banquet. Then that shit would have been acceptable.

(Why the negativity? Because this is the most known known. Two superpowered offenses led by two great quarterbacks. Two solid defenses. It should be a classic. Should be.)

I am going to have to apologize. I failed you. There are two bowl games that have no redeeming qualities. But there are 32 games that you should watch. It's made of gold. Believe in this bowl season.

Because I do.

It's Always Sunny In Heismandelphia

It's a breakneck world in college football. You have the wacky misadventures of conferences falling on their faces. You have the Electric Dream Machines of your USC and Oklahoma. And you have your Fatty McGoo's taking on your Aluminum Monsters. So? You want to know who's the master of karate and friendship for Heismankind?

Follow me.



Todd Boeckman is Rickety Cricket

Was it really that long ago that he was a man of the cloth? A mid-round prospect, the starting quarterback on a conference champion? A BCS participant? But in a short time he lost a million dollars and his job. At this point? He's nothing more than a street rat whom Terrelle Pryor just Gorilla Masked.



Rudy Carpenter is Dennis R. Reynolds

Once upon a time, he was one of the beautiful people. He still believes in his divinity, but the fact remains that his inability to handle a great pass rush means he just doesn't have it. There are some who still want him, even despite his current status. (Sam Keller is the Waitress?) But the fact of the matter is, no matter how many times he takes his shirt off? You still don't want him.



Sam Bradford is DeAndra "Sweet Dee" Reynolds

The history of the modern Oklahoma quarterback is much like the history of the modern comedienne. Some are misused, some are overrated, and some do anything for the money. (Rhett Bomar is Bonnie Hunt?) Bradford is the exception. Like Sweet Dee, he may fly under the radar, but the fact is, his monster is an Aluminum Monster. He's well protected, and nobody's gonna waterboard him.



Tim Tebow is Frank Reynolds

A superflouous addition to the proceedings? Perhaps. But without him? The SEC, as well as Paddy's would be nowhere near as awesome. And like Frank Reynolds, he did not truly find himself until he was in Vietnam. So long as he invests his money wisely, he can become an insane 5'2" bespectacled bald man who lives with an idiot savant.



Chase Daniel is Mac

The Brains behind the operation, Mac is an active force for the workers at Paddy's Bar. And as the front man, he does get a certain amount of respect. That being said? His operation is nothing without his supporting cast. Chase may be Rob McElhenney, but Chase Coffman is Glenn Howerton and Jeremy Maclin is Charlie Day. He would not be nearly as cool without the system he's in. That and he's dating a tranny.


Allegedly.



Knowshon Moreno is Charlie Kelly

For many, latching on to It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia comes from a Charlie moment. Whether pounding faces into jelly, kicking a little ass for the USA, or discovering the master of karate and friendship for everyone with Dennis? Charlie is a character who steals shows in actions and phrases. So too? Knowshon Moreno. All he does is bring awesome to the table.


He's chopping all his action and mostly power.


And he calls this one, wild card bitches!!

HAHAHA!!!

I love Football.

College Football especially. It rocks the party that rocks the body. Now, any of you loyalists know my last great WordPress post was in reference to reasons why you should love every team in college football. And yes, it is still cogent to the proceedings.

But that was for everybody, with the switch in providers and advertisements I am feeling a little more selfish in this day and age. This is for things I'm fired up about. The Grand National Championships proudly present...

The Ten things I am fired up for in college football.

1) Lou Holtz.

Yeah. Lou Holtz. His pep talks are a melange of avant garde bebop and a reminder of what once was at the Worldwide Leader. And now that college football is back? I can be entertained by a doddering old man.

Lee Corso never filled that void for me. Sadly.

2) Jeremy Maclin

Last year, as I was watching college football more and more, I found myself enjoying the works of Andre Woodson with a great regularity. But he graduated. Sands through the hourglass and whatnot.

So, in looking to bestow upon a new magician program for the game of college football, I have to go to Columbia. Not for Chase Daniel, even though he is awesome. Jeremy Maclin is my pick to click.



He shall hit home runs and it shall be good.

3) The inexplicably bad non-conference match-up!

Some of you may find these to be nothing more than irrelevant jokes. Not me. These are where we get to see the future of teams...today! You might look upon a West Virginia-Villanova matchup with scorn and derision. I look at it as a way to see if Jarrett Brown can be the heir apparent.

And of course, after last year, everybody's going to be agog to see if a big school can't get chopped down by a FBS squad. Fact is? Unless you're at the level of a Minnesota? I wouldn't worry. Appy State isn't gonna break off a piece of Les Miles.

4) The Tim Tebow Photo!


YAY!

5) New Rivalries!

Sure, we all know that the SEC is fierce. We all know Michigan and Ohio State roll up on each other like Boo, motherfucker! But you know what? That's not the whole story. Not by a longshot.

The game of Week 1 and the game that I am sufficiently hyped for is a perfect example. You have two high-powered offenses in Illinois and Missouri (Maclin!) You have two Heisman candidates in Juice Williams and Chase Daniel. You have passing attacks for the glory with Arrelious Benn and and Maclin/Chase Coffman. You and I know that points are going to be scored.

The only question? Who you got at running back? Daniel Dufrense or Jimmy Jackson. I pick Dufrense, if only because he reminds me of Mitch Hedberg.

6) The #1 cursed position in College Football?

The Oregon Quarterback. From Akili Smith to Nic Costa. They have had severe draft busts, severe knee injuries, and a general malaise about the quarterback play. Justin Roper and Darron Thomas better be afraid. Be very afraid.

7) The underrated match-up of week 1?

Rice-SMU. June Jones debut. Justin Willis versus Chase Clement. Jarrett Dillard versus the SMU defense. It was a 43-42 shootout last year. There's going to be an encore. And it will be fucking awesome to watch if you can see it. I see 90-100 points combined.

8) If you're looking for an upset?

Look to Greenville, North Carolina. Remember last year? How hyped up Blacksburg was? You remember the final score? No.

17-7. And it took a Macho Man Flying Interception Return to have it be that sound of a margin. Sure ECU lost Chris Johnson, but you know what? Skip Holtz is an awesome coach. Patrick Pickney is a dual threat. And Tyrod Taylor can't save them this time.

So? ECU 13 Va Tech 10.

9) My team accepts no challenges...

Except for an inexplicable trip to Fresno State.

10) Are you ready for the football?

I have a pennant race to deal with, so I am not copletely ready.