College Football Preview: 2. USC Trojans

2. USC Trojans Returning Starters: 16 Returning Star: QB Matt Barkley Key Loss: OT Matt Kalil Player to Watch: QB Matt Barkley The 2011 season started off rough for the Trojans but in the last month nobody wanted to play them. Now most of that USC squad returns for 2012. That includes senior quarterback Matt Barkley who is one of the leaders of the Heisman race. Barkley found his confidence last season. He has a good accurate arm and can throw deep balls too. It never hurts when you have two wide receivers as talented as Robert Woods and Marqise Lee. Both are very athletic and have sticky hands. For the first time in years the Trojans backfield may be one of the weaker in the conference. Senior back Curtis McNeal will likely start after Marc Tyler graduated. I think that he'll get the job done but hes not very athletic. Other than Woods and Lee, Barkley has some other good wide outs to pass too. Brice Butler and Xavier Grimble are big and reliable targets for Barkley. They will be valuable options against some of the tough secondaries he'll face in the Pac 12. The offensive line lost just one player but he was a very good one. Tackle Matt Kalil had good feet and constantly helped Barkley stay alive in the pocket. Without him the job of protecting their quarterback will turn to junior tackle Kevin Graf, sophomore guard Marcus Martin and center Khaled Holmes. With guys like this the offense will run like a well oiled machine. The defense is ready for another strong year. The line lost some talent but also returns some. Nick Perry and DaJohn Harris are gone but the Trojans were boosted by end Wes Horton and senior Devon Kennard. Though the team may be a little weak up the middle. I really liked linebacker Chris Galippo and the loss will hurt for the Trojans. But not as much becuase they return sophomore Dion Bailey. He can hit hard and is a sure tackler. Lamar Dawson and sophomore Hayes Pullard will likely be the other starters with Bailey. Though, the premiere part of this defense is the secondary headlined by Nickell Robey and T.J. McDonald. Robey enters this season as a junior and is speedy and can stick to wide receivers like glue. Senior Isiah Wiley is another talented defensive back while Jawanza Starling can hit. The special teams isn't amazing but kicker Andre Heidari is pretty good as he enters his sophomore year. The Trojans are in a weakened conference with a talented quarterback and a team that is ready to capture it's glory days now that it is eligible for the postseason. Heisman Hopeful: Matt Barkley Pac 12 Rank: 1st

Special Edition: NBA Playoffs

Celtics vs. Heat Series Will the Heat drop out even before they get to the championship? In order to stay alive they must take the last two games of the series on the road against an experienced team that is playing at the top of the game. Sounds tough but with three all-stars on your roster you always have a chance. Rajon Rondo has played terrific this playoffs and I don't think whoever the Heat can bring can stop him. Though he hasn't been the MVP of these playoffs for the Celtics it has been Kevin Garnett. Without Chris Bosh to stop him Garnett has had a powerful playoff. He's been able to play in the paint and rotate outside to the perimeter. They have depth inside if the old body of Garnett can't hold up. But the Heat have Wade, Bosh and James. The problem: Bosh likely won't play much more minutes then last night's 14, and whenever Miami gets to the playoffs Wade and James can't seem to find any chemistry together. The bench is pretty weak and no one can stop KG. I think they need a more consistent point guard then Mario Chalmers. The Celtics are ready to end the series and kill the Heat's second season with the Big Three (and their second without a championship). I think they will in Game 6 or 7. Thunder vs. Spurs Series After winning the first two games of the series by playing nasty and pyschical the Spurs looked prime to win the Western Conference. But all of that has been shattered by Kevin Durant's reappearance, Tim Duncan's bad shooting and the loss of the nasty. Durant has been on fire the last three games, Russell Westbrook is playing well and the big men have been able to recover. But will the experience hurt the Thunder as they work against the Spurs. In order to win Manu Ginobli has to play better defense, Duncan has to start making his shots and Neal and Danny Green have to provide stablity on the perimeter. Its pretty unlikely that the Spurs will still able to win this series but its not impossible.

Thoughts on NBA Draft

The NBA season is drawing to a close which means it is time to talk about the draft and who might be taking who this June. The Charlotte Bobcats will likely get the top pick or at least one of the higher ones after a season that was too bad to describe. Of course, if they do end up with number one they'll right away think of Anthony Davis. The shot-blocking beastly Davis led Kentucky to a national championship in just his first year at Lexington. The Bobcats basically need help at every single position except with the exception of point guard which they hope Kemba Walker will fill. If not Davis the Bobcats would probably look at his teammate Michael Kidd-Gilchrist or Thomas Robinson. It would be pretty tough to pass up on the National Player of the Year with the first pick though. The Hornets first year without Chris Paul went pretty much as expected, bad. They will probably land around the five slot or even as high as number one if they could somehow surpass the Bobcats. They will need help at forward so Kidd-Gilchrist is probably their most likely option in this year's draft. Andre Drummond wasn't a big name unless you were a NBA scout. He's huge with a large wingspan. He is an Anthony Davis without the college success or Player of the Year award. Harrison Barnes has been a big NBA prospect back from the days he played high school ball at Ames, Iowa. He's a talented explosive small forward. If the Hornets don't end up with Kidd-Gilchrist it isn't insane to think that Barnes would be their second choice. The first guard to be taken? Expect Bradley Beal from Florida or Kendall Marshall from North Carolina. Marshall is my favorite guard of this year's crop. He reminds me of a Chris Paul mixed with Rajon Rondo hybrid minus the speed. Austin Rivers gained respect from the Duke fans by nailing a buzzer beater to take down rival UNC but still has to earn the respect of scouts. With the right coach this guy could be turned into a better ball handler. He'll probably end up as a top ten guy or a little later on. A less informed college basketball expert might have him going top five. But realistically he'll probably end up around the 10 slot. He was a man among boys in college but some of the parts of his game might need some polishing. Have you forgot about Royce White Big Ten fans? The once feared forward from Minnesota ended up with the Iowa State Cyclones pretty off the radar. But if you saw the Kentucky-Iowa State tournament game this spring you would know he has a lot of talent. He will probably end up around the 15 area where the Rockets might take a serious look at him.

College Football Preview 2012-2013: 1. LSU Tigers

1. LSU Tigers Returning Starters: 11 Returning Star: DB Tyrann Mathieu Key Loss: WR Rueben Randle
Players to Watch:
QB Zach Mettenberger- Junior
TB Spencer Ware- Junior
DE Sam Montgomery- Junior
DB Tyrann Mathieu- Junior
S Eric Reid- Junior
No team losing half their team has this much talent coming back. Definitely the most dominant regular season team in the nation last year, it all fell apart in the championship against Alabama. They couldn't score for anything and their big defensive stars couldn't stop the Tide's offense. Now, the championship wouldn't slide out of the Tigers hands. Gone are Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee but Les Miles is hoping he found a gem in Zach Mettenberger. As him name states the QB isn't flashy but the transfer is effective and will get the job done. Its the backfield that will be the offense. Back is All-SEC tailback Spencer Ware along with three other backs: Kenny Hilliard, Michael Ford and Alfred Blue. Ware will obviously get the most carries and will give opposing defensive coordinators headaches. Rueben Randle, the Tigers' top receiver last year was actually a big loss. He leaves behind a weak receiving core for Mettenberger to work with. The Tigers offensive line is a definite strength. Tackles Chris Faulk and Alex Hurst will keep tough SEC pass rushers in check while underrated center P.J. Lonergan snaps it. The defense lost 6 starters but back are some of the most important. The pass rush was amazing last year and looks to be just as good this year thanks to the return of end Sam Montgomery and end Barkevious Mingo. Other than the quarterback situation and wide reciever position the linebacker core is another issue. Junior Kevin Minter is the lone returner in it. The secondary is one of, if not the best in the SEC. Heisman finalist Tyrann Mathieu returns. He is one of the best game changers I have ever seen. Eric Reid's interception in the Tigers win over the Crimson Tide earlier in the season was one of the few times people noticed the safety. But, in fact, Reid had a fantastic year. His return helps significantly. Special teams may be one of the best in the nation thanks to punter Brad Wing's and kicker Drew Alleman's return.

Heisman Hopeful: Tyrann Mathieu
SEC Rank: 1st

Final Four Picks

1 Kentucky vs. 4 Louisville
Few people will have the four-seeded Louisville taking down the number one overall team in the nation. But this one will be closer than most think. The Wildcats have a guy in the middle named Anthony Davis. Hes okay, I guess. Obviously I'm kidding. The freshman is a freak. He's big with huge hands, ideal for shot-blocking and rebounding. Another freshman Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will be a big issue for the Cardinals also. Gilchrist is a powerful forward that can handle the ball and rebound also. With Anthony Davis inside people tend to forget about the other big man, Terrence Jones. I don't think that inside the Cardinals are any where close to what the Wildcats can bring. Though Louisville does have some interesting figures. Peyton Siva has had a dream tournament. He has an improved shot, can drive in but his special skill is his ability to pass. He runs the offense smoothly. They have some other options with Kyle Kuric, Chane Behanen and Gorguei Dieng but it's Kentucky they're facing here. Kentucky overpowers the Cardinals. Kentucky, 77 Louisville, 68
2 Kansas vs. 2 Ohio State
I believe Bill Self should win coach of the year. Losing both of the Morris brothers, Josh Selby and some other valuables and still leading the Jayhawks to the Final Four. Few can deal with Thomas Robinson inside. He has an enormous wingspan, can shoot, and is intimidating. The exact same can be said for Jared Sullinger. We can't get through this prediction without mentioning the match up earlier in the year. Though Sullinger didn't play in that game. Tyshawn Taylor and Elijah Johnson give teams troubles and Jeff Withey can swat away shots inside. The Buckeyes also have a formidable front line that includes crafty Aaron Craft, William Buford and powerful Deshaun Thomas. Depth is an issue for both of these teams in my opinion. Ohio State looks better on paper but I see Kansas finding a way to win. Kansas, 70 Ohio State, 67

Top Ten Power Rankings

1. Kentucky I'll give the Wildcats the edge over Syraucuse here I guess. They've found a nice stroke but the SEC won't give up trying to knock them down. With the slick combo of Anthony Davis and Marquis Teague they should secure a number one seed.
2. Syracuse The Orange have been flawless except for the loss to Notre Dame but I think this team will get beat up down the stretch. Games against Louisville, UConn and a tricky South Florida team still remain not mentioning the Big East tournament.
3. Missouri The Missouri Tigers started off hot but as some have done they haven't cooled down. Headed by a balanced attack of guards like Michael Dixon, Kim English, Marcus Denmon and the Pressey brothers they'll be a tough opponent in the Big Dance.
4. Duke Thanks to leadership and skill the Blue Devils once more look like a contender for a championship. If Austin Rivers keeps on playing at the level he is and the Plumlees keep dominating down low, Duke will dance to the Final Four.
5. UNC Though the Heels haven't been as dominant as expected they are still a very good team. I think they can beat Virginia and Duke in their final few games and have a comfortable seed in the tournament.
6. Kansas Thomas Robinson is a beast. And hes a big reason the Jayhawks are playing at the level they are playing at. I'm still nervous about how this team will play later on but right now Kansas looks like a Big 12 champ.
7. Baylor I don't know what the deal is with Baylor. They have a strong record but their losses have been blowouts. More consistency needs to happen if they want to make the Elite Eight.
8. Michigan State Tom Izzo has proved time and time again that you can never give up on the Spartans. Now the expectation is a deep tournament run which Izzo always seems to manage. If that is to happen Draymond Green has to keep chugging along. When hes on he is a double-double machine. I think the rest of the team is good enough to do damage down the stretch.
9. Ohio State Jared Sullinger is dominant and gets all the press. But the Buckeyes aren't just Sullinger. Aaron Craft is efficient and can shoot and William Buford showed he can hang after a dominant showing at Minnesota. With an effective bench Thad Matta's team shouldn't wash out in the Sweet 16 this year.
10. Georgetown The Hoyas have turned it on this season which wasn't expecting considering they lost leaders Austin Freeman and Chris Wright. But Jason Clark has taken over as a strong scorer and Otto Porter and Hollis Thompson are effective anywhere on the court.

Weekend Watch: Kentucky Survives, Murray State Still Undefeated, Michigan State's Streak Snapped, FSU blows out UNC

Well this was an interesting Saturday. Kentucky came into the day ranked number two in the nation and heavy favorites over the Tennessee Volunteers. Though Cuonzo Martins team played hard and kept in the game until the last few minutes. A Skylar McBee breathed hope into the Volunteers but it was too little too late. Domination inside by the 'Cats was the storyline as a pair of freshman (Anthony Davis and Micheal Kidd-Gilchrist) combined for 35 points and 20 boards. From the beginning Martin wanted to push the pyschicality on Kentucky but Davis' size and talent helped him put together a great afternoon. East Carolina transfer was the top player on the day for the Vols with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Kentucky improves to 17-1 and still flawless in the SEC while Tennessee needs to pick it up at 8-9.
The Murray State Racers were 17-0 as they went into a matchup with Tennessee Tech. Headed by guards Donte Poole and Isaiah Canaan who pushed the pacce constantly. Though the backcourt of the Golden Eagles wasn't too shabby either as two guards had 19 in Jud Dilliard and Kevin Murphy. Even though the Racers hit almost every shot they took the Golden Eagles wouldn't go away as they were down just three at half. But Murray State ends Saturday 18-0 and 6-0 in the Ohio Valley. The Golden Eagles are dead as they're 11-7 overall and 3-2 in the Valley.
After starting off 0-2 with losses against UNC and Duke few teams were better then the Spartans the next 15 games as Tom Izzo's team won 15 straight. Though that streak ended on the road today against Northwestern as the Wildcats defeated MSU, 81-74. Draymond Green had yet another double-double putting in 14 points and snatching up 14 rebounds. Keith Appling also had a strong day with 17 points and 3 assists. Though Michigan State couldn't stop the lethal combo of John Shurna and Drew Crawford. Shurna put in 22 points and 5 rebounds and Crwaford had 20. This will help Northwestern get into their first tournament in school history. Or its a fluke.
UNC losing to Florida State? Surprising. UNC getting blown out by the 'Noles by 33? Unpredictable. The Seminoles Deividas Dulkys helped his team pull off the upset as he had 32 points and 4 steals and played mad down low snatching 9 boards and sinking 8 points. Harrison Barnes nor John Henson or Kendall Marshall were themselves as Barnes was the leading scorer at just 15. Marshall had 6 points but the mere four assists was the real problem. Those three struggling helped them lose by this embarassing margain. FSU hopes this is the win that puts them on the fast track towards a successful finish.

Final College Football Rankings

1. Alabama
2. Oklahoma State
3. LSU
4. Oregon
5. Arkansas
6. USC
7. Boise State
8. Stanford
9. South Carolina
10. Michigan
11. Michigan State
12. Baylor
13. Wisconsin
14. TCU
15. Kansas State
16. Houston
17. Oklahoma
18. West Virginia
19. Virginia Tech
20. Southern Mississippi
21. Georgia
22. Cincinnati
23. Clemson
24. Florida State
25. Nebraska

BCS Bowl Picks Jan 2. to Jan.8

Rose Bowl: (11-2) Wisconsin vs. Oregon (11-2)
Wisconsin once more find its self in a Rose Bowl against another tough team. Both of these teams rely heavily on their ground games as the Badgers feature Montee Ball while the Ducks present LaMichael James and Kenjon Barner. Wisconsin has a passing game led by Russell Wilson. Wilson has had great flashes and some bad moments but he'll give anyone a chance to win. Darron Thomas is agile but his arm is still a weapon too. The Badgers have an edge on defense but not by much. Their line hasn't been able to apply enough pressure without star end J.J. Watt and the secondary has had some issues. Oregon doesn't have anything too great on defense but John Boyett is okay and Cliff Harris is a factor in the return game. Overall it may be a shootout so which every team gets their offense going faster will win. I think the Badgers will.
Wisconsin, 42 Oregon, 41
Fiseta Bowl: (11-1) Stanford vs. Oklahoma State (11-1)
Two great and NFL ready quarterbacks will go head to head in this one. Brandon Weeden leads the Cowboys up against Andrew Luck and the Cardinal. Assuming its Luck's last game Stanford will pass a lot but they don't have a slouch in the backfield either. Stepfan Taylor can hang with an interesting mix of speed and power. Weeden has better receivers to throw to in dominant Justin Blackmon and effective Josh Cooper. He also has a good back to hand it off too if needed in Joseph Randle. As in the Rose Bowl both offenses will carry the teams while the defenses will just be, well, there. Shayne Skov and Delano Howell are the standouts on the Cardinal defense while the Cowboys have a ball hawk in the secondary with Markelle Martin.
Oklahoma State, 45 Stanford, 38
Sugar Bowl: (10-2) Michigan vs. Virginia Tech (11-2)
Brady Hoke has transformed the Wolverines. We knew Denard Robinson was good but they're running the ball well now and playing defense. With Robinson Michigan has a speedy option who can pass the ball effectively. Fitzgerald Toussaint is a powerful back who rushed for over 1,000 yards this year. Junior Hemingway turned into a good option for Robinson to pass too but it never hurts when somebody else steps up. The defense is led by a huge tackle in the middle in Mike Martin. Virginia Tech only lost 2 games this year but I didn't ever think they were in serious contention for a National Championship. Logan Thomas has had some moments in his first year as starter and has gained confidence. Though the Hokies don't rely much on their passing attack as they like to hand it off to ACC Player of the Year David Wilson. He is powerful with some good speed mixed in and is hard to bring down.
Michigan, 35 Virginia Tech, 27
Orange Bowl: (10-3) Clemson vs. West Virginia (9-3)
Clemson looked as good as any team in the nation through the first eight weeks of the season. But like most surprises they had a fall losing 3 of their last five but winning when it mattered in the ACC Championship. Tajh Boyd faltered at the end of last season but hopes to get back to the way he was playing at the beginning of the year. It does help that he has Sammy Watkins. Watkins has gone crazy in his freshman season running wild. Boyd also has a good back with Andre Ellington who has some nice moves. The Mountaineers have had some bad stretches but a BCS bowl was ultimately their goal. Geno Smith passed all over the place which was expected considering he has a passing coach in Dana Holgorsen. He has a lot of options to pass too which include Stedman Bailey and Tavon Austin. This one should be a thriller with Clemson ending up on top.
Clemson, 28 West Virginia, 24

Bowl Preview Quick Picks: Jan 2. to Jan. 9 (Excludes BCS bowls)

Ticketcity Bowl: (12-1) Houston vs. Penn State (9-3) Dreadful year for Penn State continues with loss to Cougars as Case Keenum goes wild. Houston, 38 Penn State, 27
Outback Bowl: (10-3) Michigan State vs. Georgia (10-3) Kirk Cousins and the rest of the Spartans avenge last year's embarassment to Alabama with dominant victory. Michigan State, 31 Georgia, 17
Capital One Bowl: (9-3) Nebraska vs. South Carolina (10-2) Taylor Martinez and a huge Cornhuskers defense stuffs up an overrated Gamecocks team full of injuries. Nebraska, 27 South Carolina, 21
Gator Bowl: (6-6) Florida vs. Ohio State (6-6) Ohio State vs. Florida in the Gator Bowl? Speedy backfield helps Gators recover from disappointing year. Florida, 34 Ohio State, 24
Cotton Bowl: (10-2) Kansas State vs. Arkansas (10-2) The Wildcats came out of nowhere to claim 10 wins and will use unorthodox quarterback Collin Klein to beat Razorbacks. Kansas State, 24 Arkansas, 16
Compass Bowl: (7-5) SMU vs. Pittsburgh (6-6) The Mustangs are starting to recover from Death Penalty. SMU, 35 Pittsburgh, 20
GoDaddy.com Bowl: (10-2) Arkansas State vs. Northern Illinois (10-3) In a battle if elite teams from weak conferences Huskies handle Arkansas State. Northern Illinois, 24 Arkansas State, 21