College Football Week 12 Picks

12 Oklahoma State vs. 24 Texas
Quietly, Texas has won six straight, and has risen to a 6-0 mark in the Big 12 even without junior QB David Ash. They get the Cowboys this week in a game that has huge implications in the Big 12, Oklahoma State has played well after their upset loss to West Virginia. Senior Case McCoy has been great in the absence of Ash with 8 touchdowns but he continue to struggle with interceptions. The Longhorns got terrible news this past week when it was announced sophomore Johnathan Gray would have season-ending surgery after an Achilles injury. Malcolm Brown can carry the load on the ground game and although Oklahoma State's defense has been pretty good this year it could be exposed on the ground. The Longhorns, who were embarrassed  by BYU earlier this year on the ground, has played a lot better against the run since that matchup. Against the Cowboys they won't have to worry as much about rush defense they will have to stop J.W. Walsh and their explosive pass offense. Can they stop an Oklahoma State team that has playmakers all over their offense including Josh Stewart (questionable) and Desmond Roland? I have my doubts.
Oklahoma State, 34 Texas, 24

7 Auburn vs. 25 Georgia

Tre Mason

The surprising Tigers of Auburn enter a tough three-week stretch of games that include this one against Georgia and the Iron Bowl against 'Bama. The success for Auburn has been all about their read-option scheme where junior back Tre Mason and mobile QB Nick Marshall have been fantastic. Last week against Tennessee, the Tigers had 479 yards of total offense; 444 of those came on the ground. Georgia's defense has been exposed against power run teams and Auburn will come right at you and attack. Though, the six-win improvement for Auburn hasn't been just about their suddenly explosive offense, it has been about their aggressive defense as well. Ends Dee Ford and freshman Carl Lawson have been beast pass rushers and the secondary has played well. I still have some real questions about Georgia's offensive line and their ability to protect Aaron Murray. A healthy Todd Gurley will make this offense play better but the Bulldogs are just too banged up right now too beat a team like Auburn.
Auburn, 38 Georgia, 23

4 Stanford vs. USC
It is amazing how much things have changed in a year in a half. Last year, USC came into the game with a Heisman candidate in Matt Barkley and as the favorite to win the national championship. Stanford won that one with an untested quarterback and hope they can keep their title hopes alive against 7-3 Trojans who have been great under interim coach Ed Orgeron. QB Cody Kessler has a better relationship with Orgeron and as a result has played very well. Explosive Nelson Agholor has been a monster as a returner and as a receiver and the Cardinal will have to tame him. The question for the Trojans will be if their defense can stop the Cardinal What happens if Stanford does what they did against Oregon, when they put in linemen after linemen and ran up the middle with powerful Tyler Gaffney. If the Cardinal pound the ball like they did against USC I think Stanford improves to 9-1.
Stanford, 30 USC, 21

Other Picks
16 Michigan State, 27 Nebraska, 17
5 Baylor, 50 Texas Tech, 28
1 Alabama, 35 Mississippi State, 14
2 Florida State, 45 Syracuse, 13
Duke, 28 23 Miami, 21
Current Picks Record: 64-24

Solving the BCS Puzzle

Kevin Norwood

The BCS picture took another turn when Stanford beat Oregon on Thursday night, ending the Ducks' title hopes. If the season ended right now, Florida State would get Alabama in the title game but last year the national championship wasn't decided until the final couple minutes. It is time to look at the top contenders and figure out who will be matching up in this the final BCS National Championship Game.

Alabama, 9-0 (6-0 SEC)
The Crimson Tide have held the No. 1 spot the whole season and look like they will be in their third straight title game and fourth in five years. They have gotten through two tough opponents in LSU and Texas A&M and they will add quality wins to help them in the eyes of the pollsters. It isn't an easy road to the title game, though. The Iron Bowl rivalry could be a huge this year, when No. 7 Auburn hopes to pull the upset. Assuming they get through that game, which is a lot to assume, they will get a tough match up in the SEC Championship Game, where they will most likely see either Missouri or South Carolina. Alabama has been great in big games in the Nick Saban era but the SEC Championship Game gave them quite the scare last year and could do the same this season.
BCS Ranking: 1
Games Remaining: 3, @Mississippi State (4-5), Chattanooga (8-2 FCS) and @Auburn (9-1)
My Pick: National Title Game

Florida State, 9-0 (7-0 ACC)
Florida State has been extremely impressive, sitting at 9-0 but looking even closer at the games shows just how good they have been. No team has given them any challenges, they have beat every team on their schedule by double-digits and smoked both Clemson and Miami, two top ten teams. They have possibly the nation's best player in Jameis Winston and a schedule favorable enough that could get them to the title game. Their toughest opponent remaining is floundering Florida, who's offense continues to have serious issues and a likely ACC Championship Game. Luckily, no team on the Coastal side of the ACC looks like they will be competitive with the Seminoles. Miami or Virginia Tech will probably be their opponent and both have bad losses. If FSU goes 13-0 with blowout wins over Clemson, Miami and Maryland it will be very tough to hold them out of the championship game.
BCS Ranking: 2
Games Remaining: 3, Syracuse (5-4), Idaho (1-9) and @Florida (4-5)
My Pick: National Title Game

Ohio State, 9-0 (5-0 Big Ten)
The Buckeyes have won 21 straight games but could find themselves out of the national championship game for the second straight year. Last year it was because of sanctions and this year, their schedule just doesn't have much big wins. Their Northwestern victory is looking less impressive by the week and Wisconsin doesn't appear like it was that big of a win either. Their lone-remaining big game is their annual battle with Michigan, who is 6-3 and was nearly upset by lowly Akron and 0-8 UConn. They have three decent Big Ten games remaining but the Big Ten has been terrible the past two years and Indiana nor Illinois victories will help them get in the title game over Baylor, Stanford or Florida State. A Big Ten Championship Game is likely but that will most likely be Michigan State, who could shut down Ohio State's offense.
BCS Ranking: 3
Games Remaining: @Illinois (3-6), Indiana (4-5) and @Michigan (6-3)
My Pick: Rose Bowl

Baylor, 8-0 (5-0 Big 12)
Quietly, the Big 12 has managed a team that suddenly has a real shot at the title game in Baylor. The Bears sit at 8-0 and managed to get a huge win over 7-2 Oklahoma, a dominant performance. Their schedule has been average before that consisting of blowout wins over teams like Kansas State, West Virginia and UL-Monroe. Personally, I believe their big win over Oklahoma was a lot more impressive than any Ohio State has. And, they have a great stretch of games remaining, games that could help them out in getting into the big game. Oklahoma State and Texas will help significantly and TCU and Texas Tech would be good wins. Unfortunately, they don't have any Big 12 Championship Game but they could be fine. They will definitely be hoping for a slip-up by either Florida State or Alabama because I believe they have better wins than Ohio State.
BCS Ranking: 5 
Games Remaining: 4, Texas Tech (7-3), @Oklahoma State (8-1), @TCU (4-6), Texas (7-2)
My Pick: Fiesta Bowl

One-Loss Teams
Stanford, 4th in BCS Rankings
Stanford looks like they have the best shot of any one-loss team to sneak into the national championship game. The Cardinal do have one bad loss in Utah but they do have some good victories over UCLA, Arizona State, Washington and of course, Oregon. A win this next week against USC, a win against Notre Dame and a win in the Pac-12 Championship Game could carry them.
Oregon, 6th in BCS Rankings
Oregon looked like they could roll into the championship game before they hit a speed bump against Stanford, much like last season. They have some good wins over UCLA and Washington but I can't really imagine them getting into the title game with their remaining schedule.
Auburn, 7th in BCS Rankings
It might have been crazy to think about heading into this year but Auburn has a real shot at getting into the championship game. Sure, they are on the outside looking in but if they can beat Alabama and Georgia they could sneak into the SEC Championship Game. A win there could carry them all the way to another championship appearance, one way ahead of schedule. 

College Basketball Preview: 5. Arizona Wildcats

5. Arizona Wildcats

Sean Miller's rebuilding project in Arizona is finally done. Last year, the Wildcats started off 14-0 before a loss to Oregon. Sure, things didn't finish the way they wanted, as they lost in the Sweet 16 but Arizona is once more expected to contend for a national title. They lose three important players, Solomon Hill, Kevin Parrom and Grant Jerrett but an excellent recruiting class and key returners could carry 'Zona to another Pac-12 title.

Backcourt: Junior Nick Johnson developed quite nicely last year, after a crazy freshman year. Johnson has good ball-handling and court vision and is definitely a playmaker. He also uses his great size to get to the rim. His shot is still inconsistent and he struggles late in games but his expected maturity should help him out. The addition of Duquesne transfer T.J. McConnell is huge. Mark Lyons who transferred from Xavier, spent time at point guard last year but was uncomfortable with the position. McConnell gives 'Zona a true point guard who can run the offense. McConnell is small but has the shooting ability to score on the offensive end but is a better defender than Lyons. Sophomore Gabe York is expected to play a bigger role after seeing just 5.8 minutes per game last year. York is a solid shooter who can play either guard slots. He is a solid, productive guard and will battle for minutes. Four-star commit Elliot Pitts should help the Wildcats in a number of ways this year. Pitts has great size for a shooting guard at 6-5 and can score in many different ways. He is a great jump-shooter but also uses his size to get to the rim and finish. Sophomore Jacob Hazzard saw just 11 minutes last year but will give Miller and 'Zona much needed depth. Senior Jordin Mayes, a LA product, gives Arizona experience and smarts and a quality defender.

Frontcourt: Aaron Gordon showed just how talented he is with his performance in the McDonald's All-American game. Even with guys like Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker playing on the court, Gordon dominated with his athletic dunks and superb athleticism. Gordon is extremely competitive and plays big and can play both forwards spots. He can make highlight-reel plays every time he touches the ball but also has the talent to score in a number of ways. He uses his size down low, but can step outside and finish plays on the perimeter. He will form a dangerous 1-2 punch in the frontcourt with the return of sophomore Kaleb Tarczewski, a five-star recruit in 2012. Tarczewski is a psychical presence down low and has shown the ability to stretch the floor at times. He has proven he has a developing back-to-basket game and has the potential to be a fantastic big man. His long wingspan allows him to block shots and play strong defense. The loss of Grant Jerrett and Hill leaves a gap in the frontcourt, one that could be filled by sophomore Brandon Ashley. Ashley, a Findlay Prep product, has good size and an evolving low post game. He still has to improve his touch by the rim and gets pushed off the block too easily but should show improvement this year. The addition of forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson should give the Wildcats depth and another athletic forward with a ton of potential. The long lefty can score in a number of ways; he has the size to get to the rim and make great plays and also has a good jump shot. Forward Eric Conklin is only a one-star prospect and may be heading towards a redshirt but brings hustle and rebounding.

Recruiting Rundown (according to ESPN.com)
No. 4 Prospect, No. 2 PF Aaron Gordon, PF from San Jose, California
No. 21 Prospect, No. 5 SF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, SF from Chester, Pennsylvania
No. 93 Prospect, No. 18 SG Elliot Pitts, SG from Dublin, California

PROJECTED LINEUP
PG T.J. McConnell, Junior
SG Nick Johnson, Junior
SF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Freshman
PF Aaron Gordon, Freshman
C Kaleb Tarczewski, Sophomore
Sixth Brandon Ashley, Sophomore

Arizona loses a lot of leadership from last year's squad but still has the talent to dominate the Pac-12. Though, don't underestimate the Pac-12 this year; UCLA, Colorado and Stanford should all be tough this season. If Aaron Gordon plays to his potential and the Wildcats find a true, effective point guard a Final Four should be on the horizon.

College Football Week 11 Picks

Marcus Mariota

3 Oregon vs. 5 Stanford
This Thursday night Pac-12 war could well decide the national title race. Last year, Oregon was in a very similar situation before the Cardinal slowed down their up-tempo attack and ended up winning the Pac-12 North. Oregon's offense has not slowed a bit under new coach Mark Helfrich, in fact it may be better. Sophomore QB Marcus Mariota struggled in this match up last year but he has been significantly smarter and will benefit his second time seeing the Stanford defense. Him and Jameis Winston appear to be the Heisman frontrunners and he hopes that he can have a Heisman moment in this one. Stanford's defense is fantastic led by pass rushers like Shayne Skov, who constantly are disrupting backfields and gave Oregon real troubles last season. Though, they don't have to just worry about Mariota, a healthy De'Anthony Thomas is always dangerous and Byron Marshall has been great this season. Thomas said this week he believes Oregon will put up 40+, that will not happen. If Stanford's offense led by Kevin Hogan and back Tyler Gaffney, can put up a decent amount of points on the scoreboard this one could like a lot like last year.
Stanford, 30 Oregon, 24

6 Baylor vs. 10 Oklahoma
Much like the Stanford-Oregon game this Thursday night game could decide the conference. Undefeated Baylor continues to overwhelm teams with their offense, and although statistically Oklahoma's defense has been impressive I still have some real questions about it. Can they shut down the combination of QB Bryce Petty, Lache Seastrunk and receiver Tevin Reese? Baylor has always been an offensive team but their defense has been strong too this season, causing turnovers. Junior QB Blake Bell, a dual threat, has been great at times this season but has struggled with interceptions and decision-making has been an issue. They have a great backfield led by Damien Williams and Bell who is a hard runner. Oklahoma has struggled to get pressure on opponents and if you don't get much on Petty, you can't stop this Bears' defense. I don't think they will, and although Baylor will not score 60, they should put up points to come away with a comfortable win.
Baylor, 45 Oklahoma, 34

1 Alabama vs. 13 LSU
The last couple of years this game has been fantastic and decided the SEC West, and it will not disappoint at all this year. The undefeated Tide hope to continue their run a top the rankings but their defense won't have as easy as a job as usual against the Tigers. Zach Mettenberger has been fantastic so far and his interceptions have really been trimmed. Jeremy Hill at back can move the chains and their offense has more playmakers than usual. Other than usual, LSU is less of a run the ball in between the tackles team but a team that can move the ball down the field. Alabama's offense has struggled at times but T.J. Yeldon has really gotten the ground attack going in again and it never wise to pick against senior quarterback A.J. McCarron. Although their offense has been vastly better, a usually defensive team, LSU has struggled to stop teams. Their pass defense has been burned a lot and they need leadership in the back. If McCarron and Amari Cooper can get the momentum flowing, they could burn the Tigers for a lot of passing yards and points.
Alabama, 28 LSU, 21

Other Picks
19 UCLA, 38 Arizona, 27
Houston, 35 UCF, 34
Michigan, 27 Nebraska, 17
2 Florida State, 43 Wake Forest, 20
9 Auburn, 35 Tennessee, 19
Current Picks Record: 58-22

College Basketball Preview: 4. Duke Blue Devils

4. Duke Blue Devils

Throughout most of last season, the Duke Blue Devils were the nation's best team. Sure, things ended a little bit short as the Blue Devils lost a close one to eventual champ Louisville. Duke will lose Ryan Kelly, who missed a lot of last year with injuries and Mason Plumlee but it is Duke and that means contention. The ACC will be very tough this next year but the Blue Devils have the talent to be a Final Four team this year.

Backcourt: Quinn Cook is one of the ACC's most underrated players. The junior has proven he can be a very productive point guard. He has speed and has great court vision, while also able to score in a number of ways. Likely to start alongside Cook in the backcourt will be sophomore Rasheed Sulaimon. Sulaimon lived up to the hype of a five-star prospect last year and can dominate on the perimeter. Sulaimon has good size for shooting guard and should mature in big ways this year. His shot is smooth and he will get more opportunities with Seth Curry gone. Senior Andre Dawkins is also back after a redshirt year. Dawkins was expected to be a big time player when he signed with Duke but has struggled to make an impact. Dawkins can shoot and has proven to be a solid defender. Dawkins should also bring much needed experience and smarts for a pretty young backcourt. Senior Tyler Thornton brings shooting and maturity at shooting guard. Thornton hasn't gotten enough minutes to make much of an impact in Durham but could get the opportunity this season. Coach K managed to bring in Texas product Matt Jones who brings a lot of versatility. Jones has good shooting range and can also get to the rim with his dribble.

Frontcourt: The No. 2 prospect in the land, Jabari Parker, will be force from the beginning for Duke. Parker can play both forward positions and brings athleticism and scoring. Parker has a fluid shot and can stretch the floor but can also be a force above the rim. Parker is a solid all-around prospect but still has some things to work on; at times he gets lost on defense and might struggle with turnovers this year. Another newcomer, Rodney Hood, should also have a huge impact. Hood, a transfer from Mississippi State who sat out last year, brings a lot of different abilities. Hood, a sophomore, isn't as polished on the offensive end as Parker but is a solid rebounder and defender. Hood has good size and the ability to get to the rim and finish through contact. The only question on the frontcourt for Duke will be the center position: Plumlee's graduation leaves a big hole. His brother, the youngest Plumlee, Marshall is expected to compete for the job. The sophomore is still very raw offensively but he has the size and strength to be a considerable force. Marshall added 25 pounds to his frame this off season which should help him gain position easier in the low post. Marshall plays a lot like his other brother Miles, as he is a solid rebounder and plays strong defense but isn't very athletic. Sophomore Amile Jefferson will also compete for minutes in this great frontcourt after a solid freshman year. Jefferson has good size and has the potential to grow into a dominant forward. Though, he is still young and makes bad decisions at times. 6-7 freshman Semi Ojeleye brings an interesting mix of athleticism and playmaking. Ojeleye can stretch the floor with his great shooting ability which will help with Ryan Kelly gone, who stretched it for Duke last season. Senior Josh Hairston appears to be more athletic and will fight for more minutes this year.

Recruiting Rundown (according to ESPN.com)
No. 2 Prospect, No. 2 SF Jabari Parker, SF from Chicago, Illinois
No. 36 Prospect, No. 6 SG Matt Jones, SG from DeSoto, Texas
No. 40 Prospect, No. 10 SF Semi Ojeleye, SF from Ottawa, Kansas

PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Quinn Cook, Junior
SG Rasheed Sulaimon, Sophomore
F Jabari Parker, Freshman
F Rodney Hood, Sophomore
C Marshall Plumlee, Sophomore
Sixth Amile Jefferson, Sophomore

Coach K once more has a championship caliber team this year but they are some questions. The ACC is now the premier basketball conference and will challenge the Blue Devils and Duke must find a consistent center. If they do, a Final Four is a real possibility.

College Basketball Preview: 3. Louisville Cardinals

3. Louisville Cardinals

The Cardinals used a quick, high-scoring backcourt and a deep frontcourt full of productive forwards to win a national championship. Senior leader Peyton Siva and center Gorgui Dieng are both gone but many of the important pieces are back for the Cardinals to repeat as national champs. Plus, a move to the easier American Athletic Conference from the brutal Big East should further help out the Cards.

Backcourt: Russ Smith flirted with the idea of going pro but decided to return for his senior season. "Russdiculous" should enter the year as a Wooden Award candidate thanks to his high-scoring potential. Smith can score in a ton of different ways and can make plays on the defensive side as well. Though, Smith has proven throughout his career he can make stupid plays and drive Rick Pitino mad. Hopefully, entering his senior year, he will be more mature. Where Smith will start is a question; he isn't a point guard but Louisville doesn't have a proven PG on their roster. Junior Wayne Blackshear was a huge recruit a couple of years ago but hasn't seen too many minutes yet. Blackshear has good size (6-5) and can help in a lot of different ways. Junior Kevin Ware became famous after a scary broken leg in last year's tournament and it is tough to imagine him playing much this year. Though if he does, he provides hustle and defense. Freshman Terry Rozier will get the chance to start at point guard with Siva gone. Rozier is extremely athletic and can beat defenders in a lot of different ways. JUCO transfer Chris Jones will bring experience and smarts and is a less-risky option than Rozier. Four-star commit Anton Gill should get minutes at shooting guard and is extremely dangerous in transition and has the ability to make highlight plays.

Frontcourt: Luke Hancock, a former George Mason transfer, had a dream NCAA tournament and has the potential to have a huge 2013-2014. Hancock brings maturity on the wing and is an extremely dangerous shooter. Hancock brings size at 6-6 and can play a number of different positions including small forward and shooting guard. Sophomore Montrezl Harrell, the top recruit entering 2012, showed flashes of greatness last year. Harrell has great moves in the low post and can stretch the floor at times. Harrell has good rebounding skills and has proven to be a quality defender at times. Junior Chane Behanan is a little bit undersized and it isn't known what position he will fill in at but has the jumping ability and potential to be a monster this year. Behanan isn't too polished of a shooter but can make some shots. Behanan helps on the glass and has a knack for getting contact and making shots at the line. Senior forward Stephen Van Treese gives the Cardinals much needed size and maturity. His career so far his been filled with injuries and offensive struggles but looks ready to make an impact this year. Van Treese is a proven defender and uses his big frame to pull down rebounds. The addition of forward Akoy Agau, a talent from Omaha, Nebraska gives Pitino yet another high-potential forward. Agau is raw on offense but is athletic and also brings size and strength in the paint.

Recruiting Rundown (according to ESPN.com)
5 Star Prospect Terry Rozier, PG from Shaker Heights, Ohio
4 Star Prospect Anton Gill, SG Raleigh, North Carolina
4 Star Prospect Akoy Agau, PF from Omaha, Nebraska
JUCO transfer Chris Jones, PG from Northwest Florida State College

PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Terry Rozier, Freshman
SG Russ Smith, Senior
SF Luke Hancock, Senior
F Chane Behanan, Junior
F Montrezl Harrell, Sophomore
Sixth Wayne Blackshear, Junior

If Smith proves to be smarter and continues to be a dominant scorer and Rozier becomes the second-coming of Peyton Siva at point guard a repeat is a real possibility. Though size in the frontcourt; Behanan is just 6-6 and Harrell is just 6-7 could be an issue even in the weaker American. This year won't be easy; it never is, but the Cardinals once more have the talent to rule the college basketball landscape.

College Football Power Rankings

A.J. McCarron

1. Alabama This a pivotal stretch for the 8-0 Crimson Tide. They get LSU at home this next week and their Iron Bowl rivalry with Auburn on the 30th has huge SEC West implications.
2. Florida State Jameis Winston showed signs of being human with 2 interceptions against Miami but the ground attack picked up the slack and the defense continues to impress.
3. Oregon This Thursday night, the 8-0 Ducks and Marcus Mariota will square off in the Pac-12 game of the year. This one could well help push Oregon over FSU in the title picture or drop them out of it like last season.
4. Ohio State The Buckeyes continue to embarrass the rest of the Big Ten, beating up on Purdue. Though, Michigan is their only big opponent remaining and they played terrible against Michigan State.
5. Stanford The Cardinal still have an outside shot at a title run, especially if they can beat Oregon, but their offense needs to find its stroke again, it has struggled since their loss to Utah.
6. Baylor The 7-0 Bears are leading the nation in pass yards, points per game and are seventh in the nation in rushing yards per game. Needless to say, Oklahoma has a tough task handling the Bears this week.
7. Clemson Ever since their embarrassing loss to Florida State, Clemson has responded putting 40 on Maryland and nearly putting up 60 on Virginia.
8. Auburn What Gus Malzahn is doing with this group is amazing as the Tigers sit at 8-1 thanks to a dominant rush attack. They have to prove they are legit though, in a brutal stretch that includes Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama.
9. Missouri The Tigers kept themselves in the BCS title picture by handling Tennessee and they have an easier finish to the year than a lot of other top SEC teams.
10. Oklahoma The Sooners are winning, but in a different way than usual. A team that usually airs the ball out, is averaging 234 yards on the ground this season, 17th in the nation.
11. LSU After coming so close to beating the Tide last year, the 7-2 Tigers hope to finish the job this year. If they don't turn the ball over they could end Alabama's hopes of a third straight championship.
12. Texas A&M Johnny Football threw and ran all over UTEP for six touchdowns but can he carry them to victories over LSU and Missouri?
13. Miami Although they don't play very good against Florida State that wasn't the only bad news for the 'Canes. Star back Duke Johnson is out for the year meaning an ACC championship just got even tougher.
14. South Carolina This season hasn't been what many Gamecocks' fans would have liked, they are 7-2 and need to end the year strong to have any shot at a SEC Championship appearance but if Connor Shaw can stay healthy they aren't completely out of it.
15. Oklahoma State The past two weeks, the Cowboys have looked very good, putting up 50+ in the last two and have shot themselves right back into the Big 12 picture.
16. Fresno State The Mountain West is just not enough competition for Derek Carr and the Bulldogs as they won again late last night, dominating Nevada from start to finish.
17. Michigan State Once more, the Spartans defense was dominant, holding Michigan to negatives in the rushing department. With that win, they just might have the Legends Division in the Big Ten.
18. UCLA Sophomore QB Brett Hundley is playing great right now and he could help the Bruins run the table. Other than Arizona State, they have a pretty unimpressive schedule to end the season.
19. UCF Blake Bortles and the 6-1 Knights clearly are the favorite now in the American Athletic but they should be nervous about their next meeting with Houston. The 7-1 Cougars continue to score points and could surprise.
20. Louisville Teddy Bridgewater and the Cardinals are out of the title picture, if they ever were in it, but they could still win the American if they can finish strong against UConn, Houston, Memphis and Cincinnati.
21. Northern Illinois Although they will likely end up 13-0, it will be very difficult for the Huskies to climb into another BCS bowl. They are winning but against MAC schools it just doesn't cut it.
22. Wisconsin The Badgers were far from dominant against Iowa but they continue to win thanks to a run game that appears nearly impossible to completely stop.
23. Notre Dame With their win over Navy by just 4, it was the fifth game that they managed to win by just a touchdown or less. They are winning but they still have a lot to prove.
24. Arizona State  The Sun Devils improved to 6-2 with a Halloween beating of Washington State and could still find their way into the Pac-12 championship game if they can handle Hundley and the Bruins.
25. Texas Tech Many questioned the Red Raiders ever climbing to the Top 10 and it is clear they were overrated, losing two straight. But, their offense still is playing well and they have nothing to lose now.

College Football Week Ten Picks

3 Florida State vs. 7 Miami
One of the greatest rivalries in college football will have a new chapter after both undefeated teams meet in Tallahassee. The Seminoles have been very impressive this season, sitting at 7-0 and with impressive wins over Clemson and Maryland. But, they have to stop Miami and their explosive offense led by sophomore back Duke Johnson and senior QB Stephen Morris. Miami's defense has been solid this year and has played well in big situations. But, they also have a tough task of their own, trying to hold "Famous Jameis", redshirt freshman QB Jameis Winston, who is likely the Heisman frontrunner, and the rest of the 'Noles' offense. Winston played great against Clemson but this Miami defense can force turnovers. Along with tight end Nick O'Leary to throw too and a rush defense that they can rely on if Winston struggles Florida State could put up a lot of points over the 'Canes. Miami is a big underdog in this one, even if it is a Top 10 battle, but if Morris plays smart and the defense can make big plays, they still have a chance.
Florida State, 41 Miami, 28

Davis Webb

15 Texas Tech vs. 18 Oklahoma State
Even though they did lose to Oklahoma last week to ruin their undefeated mark, Texas Tech still played well and proved they are a proven threat in the Big 12. First-year head coach Kliff Kingsbury's offense still has issues with turnovers but their defense has been surprisingly solid so far this year and will play hard. On the other side of the equation, Oklahoma State may be 6-1, but this year has been a little bit of a disappointment. Their offense has been the old Oklahoma State at times, but turnovers can be an issue and they are inconsistent. Their defense has played well but it hasn't really seen an offense like the Red Raiders'. The key in this one will be quarterback play, like a lot of Big 12 matchups. Texas Tech uses a two-quarterback system with Davis Webb and Baker Mayfield while the Cowboys have a dual threat in J.W. Walsh. If they play well they should give their respective teams an advantage. This one could well turn into a typical Big 12 game; a whole lot of scoring and both teams throwing the ball all over the place. If it does I'm leaning towards Texas Tech.
Texas Tech, 51 Oklahoma State, 40

21 Michigan vs. 22 Michigan State
The Big Ten Legends Division could be decided in this rivalry battle. Although they both hail from the same state these two teams have been polar opposites this season. Michigan has relied on a great passing attack that includes a number of field-stretchers, while Michigan State has managed their 7-1 start thanks to the best defense in the Big Ten. Michigan has been very confusing; that win over Notre Dame seemed pretty legit but then they followed that up with close wins over Akron and UConn. Devin Gardner has been very inconsistent but when he is smart and reads defenses the way he should, he been be great, like when they scored 63 in their victory over Indiana. The Spartans have a great defense that can put pressure on the quarterback and is disciplined but even they could have some issues in containing electric wide receiver Jeremy Gallon. Michigan's defense has been questionable at times this year and it appears Michigan State has finally found a way to move the ball in junior back Jeremy Langford, who has 655 yards and 9 touchdowns this season. Earlier in the year I would go with Michigan but I like the Spartans a lot more now that they have found Langford.
Michigan State, 28 Michigan, 24

Other Picks
24 Wisconsin, 35 Iowa, 20
14 South Carolina, 31 Mississippi State, 18
9 Missouri, 27 Tennessee, 17
11 Auburn, 33 Arkansas, 14
Georgia, 38 Florida, 31
Current Picks Record: 51-21

College Basketball Preview: 2. Michigan State Spartans

2. Michigan State Spartans

As usual, the Spartans dominated through much of the Big Ten and rolled into the NCAA tournament with a quality seed. Michigan State once more made the Sweet 16 before a tough loss to a good Duke team. Massive center Derrick Nix is gone but nearly everyone else returns from that Sweet 16 squad. Tom Izzo has one of his best teams here in East Lansing and the expectations are a national championship.

Backcourt: Senior point guard Keith Appling is back to lead the Spartans' offense. Appling has proven that he can be a reliable scorer and can score anywhere on the court. Appling is also a good ball handler who can finish in traffic or in space. Sophomore Gary Harris had an impressive freshman year and could even improve in 2013-14. Harris proved to be valuable shooter who plays with smarts well beyond his years. Harris also has good size (6-4) and has the versatility to play a number of different roles this season. Junior Branden Dawson can also play at a number of different positions. Dawson has great size (6-6) but can still handle the ball well for his size. If Dawson does stay healthy and improves his perimeter shot he could have a big year. Junior Travis Trice is also healthy and brings a lot of leadership. Where he will see minutes is a question; Trice isn't a true point guard but is too small to spend a lot of time at shooting guard. Trice is a sharpshooter who plays hard and is a good defender. The addition of Chicago product Alvin Ellis should give Michigan State a lot of athleticism and great IQ on the perimeter. Sophomore Denzel Valentine is a big threat who should improve in '13-'14. Valentine uses his size to finish through contact and rebound his position well.

Frontcourt: The loss of Derrick Nix will hurt because he gave Michigan State, a shot-blocking big man with loads of experience. Senior Adreian Payne who plays big and do a lot of different things. Payne is an average scorer but it looks like he could improve this year. Payne is big and mobile and is an extremely good rebounder. He doesn't have All-American talent but he is a very serviceable center who is very productive. Junior Russell Byrd will likely spend time at small forward. Byrd is athletic and can make a lot of different plays but health may be an issue for him. Byrd isn't an elite scorer yet; but he has the size and playmaking potential to be a huge year. Junior Alex Gauna will fight for minutes at the power forward spot and has the size and rebounding ability to have a strong year. Gauna isn't too much of a scorer yet as well, but he the ability to score when given the chance and is quite the rebounder. Sophomore Matt Costello, who was pretty quiet in his first year, could have a breakout sophomore season. Costello is good-sized forward who has proven he is a strong rebounder and good defender. He has to improve his touch around the rim and isn't very polished yet but has room to improve in big ways. Sophomore forward Kenny Kaminski is also a polished rebounder and gives Izzo hustle off the bench. With Nix gone and Payne the clear cut starter at center, the backup will likely be three-star center Gavin Schilling, another Chicago talent. Depth could prove to an issue for the Spartans too, especially if Gauna or Byrd continue to struggle with injuries.

Recruiting Rundown (according to ESPN.com)
3 Star Prospect Alvin Ellis, SG from Chicago, Illinois
3 Star Prospect Gavin Schilling, C from Chicago Illinois

PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Keith Appling, Senior
SG Gary Harris, Sophomore
SF Branden Dawson, Junior
PF Alex Gauna, Junior
C Adreian Payne, Senior
Sixth Russell Byrd, Junior

Michigan State doesn't have the star power Kentucky does or some other teams have. But, Tom Izzo is a great coach and always gets the best out of his teams. The Spartans will play smart, rebound well and play great defense. Even in the Big Ten, which will be brutal once again this season, Michigan State has the talent and smarts to win the Big Ten and fly into the Final Four.

College Football Power Rankings

1. Alabama The Tide are blowing out opponents they have been dominating teams in the first half. They get a bye before one of their second-toughest matchup of the year against LSU.
2. Florida State Led by Jameis Winston, the Seminoles have been absolutely scary, they absolutely passed all over NC State..
3. Oregon Halfway through their matchup with the Bruins it looked like UCLA may be able to pull out the upset but Marcus Mariota reassured his Heisman candidacy with a dominant second half.
4. Ohio State Braxton Miller and the Buckeyes continue to roll through their weak schedule, blowing out Penn State 63-14, the most lopsided win in the rivalry history.
5. Stanford After losing to Utah and questions arrived about Kevin Hogan, the Cardinal have recovered beating UCLA and taming Oregon State and their explosive offense to just 12 points.
6. Baylor The Bears continue to through the ball all over the field, they are averaging nearly 64 points a game thanks to QB Bryce Petty and receiver Antwan Goodley but things get tough this week against Oklahoma.

Stephen Morris

7. Miami There is no denying the Hurricanes are winning and sit at 7-0 but their last two wins have both been by three and their early-season victory against Florida is looking unimpressive by the week.
8. Clemson A week after getting mauled by Florida State, Clemson proved they will still be a factor in the ACC, handling a good Maryland team this past week.
9. Auburn The job Gus Malzahn has done this year with the Tigers has been extremely impressive, the Tigers are 7-1 but, Alabama and Georgia still await.
10. LSU The next couple weeks will prove just how good the two-loss Tigers are, they get a bye before Alabama and then another week off before their big matchup against Johnny Football and Texas A&M.
11. Missouri For a moment there Missouri looked like a real national title threat. But even up 17-0, the Tigers couldn't stifle a South Carolina comeback and then lost it in OT.
12. Oklahoma Blake Bell continues to play well, accounting for nearly 300 yards as the Sooners handed Texas Tech their first loss of the year. Can their defense stop Baylor on a Thursday night meeting?
13. Texas A&M The Aggies had no troubles with Vanderbilt and should dominate UTEP this week before a tough stretch that includes Mississippi State, LSU and Missouri.
14. Fresno State Although they were nearly upset by San Diego State, Fresno kept their BCS hopes alive even though Derek Carr wasn't himself. Their next four games should be wins but they need to impress pollsters.
15. Northern Illinois After a great 2012, Jordan Lynch has been even better this year, he has passed for 1,711 passing yards and 1,031 rushing yards. The 8-0 Huskies should go undefeated in this regular season.
16. Texas Tech The Red Raiders played pretty well against Oklahoma but they need their defense to improve if they hope to handle Oklahoma State this next week an Baylor in the future.
17. Oklahoma State The explosive offenses that Oklahoma State has possessed the past couple of years looks like it is starting to improve, it scored 58 in their win over Iowa State.
18. South Carolina No Connor Shaw, no problem for the Gamecocks as they used Mike Davis and Dylan Thompson to stun Mizzou in overtime. They still have a chance in the SEC East after their win.
19. UCLA A week after struggling to score against Stanford the Bruins were blown out by Oregon. Brett Hundley has been great this year but the offense has been inconsistent. Luckily, the tough part of their schedule is over.
20. Louisville After their loss to Central Florida that might have cost them a BCS bid, the Cardinals proved they are still a good team, embarrassing South Florida, 34-3.
21. Wisconsin The Badgers are playing very well, they ran all over Illinois but they still have no big wins, now that Northwestern, their signature win, has fallen apart.
22. UCF Blake Bortles dominated as the Golden Knights picked apart the 0-7 UConn Huskies, 62-17. Unless they have a hiccup, UCF should gain the conference's BCS berth over Louisville.
23. Michigan It is time the Wolverines start proving themselves. Their 6-1 mark will be put to a the test against Michigan State this next week and Nebraska and Ohio State still await.
24. Michigan State Even though their offense has been tough to watch at times this year the Spartans sit at 7-1 thanks to the Big Ten's best defense.
25. Notre Dame After a 3-2 start, Notre Dame has been fantastic winning their next three including a dominant victory over the hopeless Air Force Falcons. Stanford still remains on their schedule but a BCS run is still a possibility.