A BIG THANK YOU TO ME FOR MY WINNING FOOTBALL PICKS

As you gathered with loved ones yesterday to give thanks for all that is good, I'm sure you included Woolard's Weekend Winners on your list. Why? Because we had another awesome week hitting on 7 of 8 picks including the UPSET SPECIAL of Oklahoma State knocking off #4 Baylor. Thus, we are now sitting at an unbelievable 73% success rate after thirteen weeks of excellent and awesome prognostication. I know, I'm special. And you are too if you've been following my lead and laying down some cash each week on the games. You can thank me later...Christmas is only 27 shopping days away and I'm expecting something special from each and everyone of you. So don't hold back.

A bit of trivia...this day in 1890 was the very first Army/Navy game, one of the most traditional and enduring rivalries in college football. And did you know that instant replay made its American debut in the 1963 Army-Navy game? Didn't think so. What I love about this game is that the players are playing solely for the love of the game. We'll have more on this special classic in the next week or so leading up to game day (we call that a teaser).

Now back to business.

A strange thing happened Thanksgiving Day afternoon. 

Justin, our first YAPper

After filling our bellies with turkey and all the fixin's that adorned granny's table, we adjourned to the man cave for a few hours of football watching, scotch sipping, and afternoon snoozing in the Lazy Boy. It was during this time that my 13 year old nephew, Justin, started throwing down all sorts of facts and figures about the players and teams we were watching. And then it hit me. Wow. Why not establish the Youth Apprentice Program for Woolard's Weekend Winners?  Brilliant idea! Where else can a young lad learn the art and science of handicapping college football games? So, being the awesome uncle that I am, I appointed young Justin as the first ever YAP participant. And since I believe in on-the-job training I assigned young Justin the task of making this week's picks for Woolard's Weekend Winners. His momma may not endorse this endeavor but she'll thank me later after young Justin starts racking up tuition money.

But first, time for Q&A with Justin.....

Q&A with Justin

WWW:   So, Justin, are you excited about being the very first Youth Apprentice at Woolard's Weekend Winners?
JUSTIN:  Yes, of course. It's a real honor. I've followed college football for years so it's only natural for me to leverage my knowledge and maybe make some dough along the way.

WWW:   So you like making money?
JUSTIN:  Absolutely, who doesn't? It's America and I totally believe in capitalism and the opportunity to generate wealth.

WWW:  You sound pretty smart for a thirteen year old?
JUSTIN:  It's a genetic thing, Uncle Mark.

WWW:  When you're not watching football what kind of things do you like to do?
JUSTIN:  I'm a gun enthusiast and compete in various shooting competitions. Two years ago I won a trap shooting contest with my 12 gauge shotgun.

WWW:  Dude!  That's pretty impressive. What else?
JUSTIN:  I raise horses and play XBox. So I think I'm pretty well rounded.

WWW:  What about actual playing experience?
JUSTIN:  I played offensive line for the Webb School Spartans.
WWW:  So you like smacking people around?
JUSTIN:  You could say that.

WWW:  Who has been your best football coach?
JUSTIN:  Hands down, Erik Ainge, former stand out quarterback at Tennessee. He helped out with my first team and we learned so much. Like hating Vanderbilt and those slimy lizards from Florida. And providing great protection for our quarterbacks. He was pretty big on that.

And Now Justin's Weekend Winning Picks...

Georgia @ Georgia Tech...this classic rivalry game features two 7-4 teams that lack a lotta love for each other. The Bulldogs will be going with back up quarterback, Hutson Mason, who's filling in for the injured Aaron Murray. So expect Georgia to run the ball A LOT with Gurley, and then some play action pass plays to the keep the Jacket defense guessing. Take Georgia at the Flats.

They take their football seriously

Ohio State @ Michigan...the Wolverines have stumbled a bit while the Buckeyes are cruising at 23-0 under Urban Meyer. No biggie, right? Take the Buckeyes ground game led by Carlos Hyde and Braxton Miller.
Buckeyes roll.

Texas A&M @ Missouri...while Johnny Manziel has had a better passing seaon he has not been as good on the ground like last season. Meanwhile Mizzou has plenty of weapons and a terrific pass rush. Take the Tigers in Columbia.

Northwestern @ Illinois...the Wildcats have tumbled in recent weeks since their loss to Ohio State. Without a healthy Kain Colter, Northwestern has struggled with their read-option offense. And that's a big gap. Northwestern stumbles again.

Clemson @ South Carolina...this game features two of America's best dual-threat quarterbacks, Tajh Boyd and Connor Shaw. The Gamecocks will lean heavily on running back Mike Davis, but we really think the difference will be Clemson's speed demon, Sammy Watkins. Tigers bite Carolina in an UPSET.

Alabama @ Auburn...this year's Iron Bowl features two of America's top teams with very different paths. Gus Malzahn has returned respect and winning to the Plains and has constructed the biggest turn around in college football. Meanwhile, Alabama continues building its Dynasty. Take the team with the championship experience. Bama bops Aubbie.

Duke @ North Carolina...Duke has made history this season and has been one of the best 4th Quarter teams all year as Coach Cutcliffe proves that football can successfully co-exist with Coach K's legendary bball program. The Tar Heels will keep this contest close but Duke will pull it out again in the 4th stanza. Take the Dookies from Durham in another UPSET.

Isn't this sweet? Bromance breaking out.

Tennessee @ Kentucky...it's gonna be a cold one in Lexington as the Vols and Wildcats battle for the basement in the SEC East. Tennessee hopes to close out a miserable season with a win over the struggling Wildcats. Expect a messy game as the Vols freshman quarterback Josh Dobbs learns to complete a few passes but we think the Tennessee run game will finally wake up and overpower the Kentucky front seven.  Take Tennessee in a runaway game.

As Uncle Mark says....MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK.

NEED EXTRA CASH FOR THE HOLIDAYS?  CHECK HERE.

What can I say? I'm awesome.

If you've been following our picks each week then you have plenty of cash to get those much needed, much deserved Christmas gifts for that special someone, and maybe for the wife, too. Because with a hit rate no lower than 72%, you my friend have been raking in the greenbacks. So, go ahead and say it....I'm awesome, and you can be, too.

We did hit a wee bit of turbulence last Saturday, only going 3-5 with our winners. But as I've said in the past, we're in it for the long haul and at 72% for the season, we're kicking some booty. So suck it up, tell the old lady to get you another beer, and let's talk some football.

The Auburn - Georgia game didn't turn out the way we needed it to but seriously, it was one crazy game. And you got to love it when the UGA fans get punched in the gut like that. Oh, the pain, the suffering.

And you had to love Duke's big upset over Miami.  Can you believe the Dookies have a shot at winning their ACC division? Wow. And looks what happening at Southern Cal? Ever since the Trojans ousted the little weener, the ship seems to be righted, as they knocked off #4 Stanford to improve their record to 8-3. So, will USC retain Ed Orgeron? He's a snake but he sure can coach.

8 more dandy game picks that you can convert into some serious jingle jangle.

I'll be honest. Coming up with 8 intriguing games this week is almost as difficult as surviving the holidays locked in a house with relatives you only see once a year (and that's once too many). After a few minutes of chit chat you're left wondering if you're really related to these boofers. Don't get me wrong. I love my peeps. But I don't like my style being cramped. Plus I can only take so much hearing about Aunt JoAnne's in-grown toenails and lip fungus.  But I digress.

Here's Your Weekend Winners....
Vanderbilt at Tennessee...who else thinks that Vandy's coach James Franklin is just biding his time before jumping to a bigger and better football program? Thought so. Anyway, the Vols are once again breaking out the 'smoky gray' uni's as they host the Comode-Doors (see what I did there?). Rumor has it that the new gray will be replacing the orange and white as the traditional colors for Tennessee. So, will the gray look work for UT? It came close in the near victory over Georgia back in October. But the big question for Tennessee is can they rebound from all of the monsterous butt kickings they've endured the last few weeks at the hands of Alabama, Missouri, and Auburn? UT must win their last two games to get to a bowl. Can they do it? Don't think so. Unless the linebackers have gotten faster and the defensive backs have learned to cover and tackle. Plus, will we see improvement from true freshman quarterback, Josh Dobbs? And can the world's most over-rated offensive line pass protect and run block. Again, don't think so. Take the 'Dores in Rocky Top.

#8 Missouri at #24 Ole Miss...as I've said in the past, Ole Miss has been problematic. You pick em to win, they lose. You pick em to lose, they win. But in this game, there's no second guessing. Mizzou (9-1) brings too many weapons to Oxford and the Tiger defense is a very physical squad. Plus quarterback James Franklin returns for their final push to the Georgia Dome. This should be a pretty good game because Ole Miss can rack up the yards and points as demonstrated in their win over LSU. Take the Tigers in this one.

#4 Baylor at #10 Oklahoma State...Baylor's offense has embarrassed everyone they've faced this season but the Cowpokes defense has shown they can be stingy. Undefeated Baylor can take a huge step toward winning the Big 12. In another great evening matchup, take Oklahoma State in an UPSET.

#25 Duke at Wake Forest...can football be successful at Duke? Holy Coach K. The Blue Devils are averaging over 34 points a game and they have the inside track to winning the ACC Coastal Division. They'll take another big step at noon today as they beat the Deacons.  Take Duke in the win.

#13 Michigan State at Northwestern...the Spartans need just one more win to lock up the Legends Division in the Big Ten. And after clobbering Nebraska last week 41-28, Coach Dantonio will have the champagne on ice as the Wildcats (4-6) are struggling with injuries and some close losses. Take Sparty and have another slice of deep dish while you're in the Windy City.

Kentucky @ Georgia...this game has little impact on anything other than regaining some respect. At 6-4 (4-3), Georgia has successfully flopped one more time in a season that was full of high expectations and hopes. The mutts should kick the kitties this week and then have their way with the Jackets next Saturday, and end up in some poopy bowl game. In any case, take the Pups in a so-what win.

 #12 Texas A&M @ #22 LSU...neither team can win the SEC West, dominated by Alabama. But this is another must-see game featuring Johnny Be Bad and Zach Mettenberger, two of the best quarterbacks in the country. This could be an awesome shoot out.  Take the Aggies.

California @ #9 Stanford...this is a no brainer. The Cardinal were stunned last week but will work out their frustations with the Berkeley crowd.  Take Stanford.

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

WE REMEMBER IN NOVEMBER: PERFECT PICKS!

Totally awesome. Jealous?

Just what the doctor ordered:  a perfect 8 for 8 last Saturday including our UPSET SPECIAL of Oklahoma State over Texas Tech. That puts us at 76% for the season which is outstanding any way you wish to cut the deck. 

So, time to show me some love. Or at least buy me a big boy country breakfast complete with grits, ham, some bacon, eggs over medium, and cathead-size biscuits just like momma use to make. And don't forget the coffee...bold and strong, just like our picks.

Anyway, we have another great lineup of games and plenty of opportunities to Make Mo Money with Mark. So, let's get to it.

Here's Your Weekend Winners...

Stroke candidate?

#9 Auburn @ Tennessee...if you're a Tennessee fan then no one can blame you for being just a bit envious of what's happening with Auburn. In just his first year, head coach Gus Malzahn has returned the Tigers/Plainsmen/War Eagles/Dying Oaks to prominence in the SEC with an 8-1 (4-1) record. And he's done that without buying any players; at least we think so. Malzahn brings the #1 rushing attack in the SEC (#6 in the country) to Neyland Stadium where the Vols have only lost once this season (an overtime gig to Georgia that's still too painful to think about). In addition to tailback Tre Mason, Auburn has the dual threat QB Nick Marshall and that doesn't bode well for the Volunteers who can't stop a running QB to save their Rocky Top lives. The only hope for bUTch Jones and his gang of hillbillies is if the 100,000+ orange necks show up early and drunk and raise almighty hell much like they did when UT played Georgia a few weeks back. I know, I was there. And yes, I was loud and probably had consumed a couple of libations to grease the skids. Who would blame me. But Tennessee is going to need a lot more than crowd noise. They're going to need speedy linebackers and defensive backs that know how to stop the run. Unfortunately, those guys won't be on campus until next summer. So...take Auburn in another SEC butt kicking of the not so big Orange.


#10 LSU @ #1 Alabama...Saban and company know that in order to make it to the national championship game they must be perfect in November and that starts this Saturday when they host LSU. Having lost two games by 3 points each (Georgia and Ole Miss), LSU has recovered and will be ready to give the Tide all they want. If you look at total offensive yards, rushing yards, and passing yards, these teams are pretty evenly matched. The difference may well be the leadership of Bama QB AJ McCarron (the guy with the hot girlfriend according to Brent Musberger). But something tells me that Les Miles is due for a headline win this season and he'll dial it up another notch. That's why we're taking the Bengal Tigers and the points (12) in an UPSET SPECIAL.

Virginia Tech @ #11 Miami...Beamer's Hokies bring one of the least productive offenses to Coral Gables on Saturday when they take on the 7-1 Miami Hurricanes that are still reeling from last week's 41-14 beat down in Tallahassee. Va Tech's offense is ranked 103 with 348 yards per game and their rushing game averages only 117 yds per game (#109 in the country). Despite losing Duke Johnson to a season-ending ankle injury, the Canes still have plenty of offensive weapons that average 36+ points a game. If Miami can survive, they pretty much nail down the ACC Coastal Division. And we think they will.  Hurricanes storm the Gobblers.

The sultan of rushing

Nebraska @ Michigan...if you Cornhusker fans left the game early last week, then you missed one helluva ending with Northwestern. QB Ron Kellogg III threw a "Hail Mary"pass into the endzone that was batted around and finally gathered up by Jordan Westerkamp for a 27-24 Husker win. A real kick in the Wildcat nutsack but just might have given Bo Pellini a stay of execution. This week, though, is another story as the Huskers travel to the Big House to take on the Maize and Blue in Ann Arbor. Key stat: the Wolverines are 19-0 at home under Brady Hoke while the Corn Boys are 7-8 away from home over the last 3 years. The loser of this game is out of the Legends division race. But while conventional wisdom might suggest going with Michigan, not so fast. Nebraska is led by Ameer Abdullah, the #1 running back in the Big Ten, and #5 in the country with over 1100 rushing yards. And he's why we like the Huskers in another UPSET SPECIAL in Ann Arbor. Take Nebraska and the 7 points. You'll thank me later. No, you really will.


BYU @ #21 Wisconsin...this game may very well get lost in the shuffle, which would be a real shame. Why, you ask? These are the only two FBS teams to feature a pair of players averaging 100 yards rushing: Melvin Gordon and James White for the Badgers, and running back Jamaal Williams and QB Taysom Hill for BYU. Couple that with two of the country's top linebackers - BYU's Kyle Van Noy and Wisconsin's Chris Borland - and you have the perfect recipe for a great game. Key stat to consider: the Badgers have 28 straight home wins over a non-conference foe, the second longest streak of FBS teams. Make that 29 tomorrow for the Badgers. Wisconsin over the Cougars.

Texas @ West Virginia...this game could be a trap game for the Longhorns if they fail to focus. The Mountaineers are an improving team having knocked off TCU last week. And Texas hasn't exactly been playing lights out on the road this season having lost to BYU 40-21 and barely avoiding a loss in Ames, beating Iowa State 31-30. But Mack Brown needs this win to stay on his road to redemption. It'll be a nippy night in Morgantown but we think the Longhorns will heat things up. Take Texas in a stampede as they Horns stay perfect in the Big 12.

Lizards lacking this season

Vanderbilt @ Florida...this is a pair of 4-4 teams. My how the mighty lizards have fallen! But this is a must win for Muschamp's crew since they travel to Columbia next Saturday to face the Gamecocks. With a pretty stout defense - only giving up 17 points a game - the Gators should take care of business tomorrow against the Commode-Doors (see what I did there?). The Vandy Dandys are not what they were a year ago when James Franklin had the Dores grooving. But the universe has returned to norm and Vanderbilt once again is looking up from the SEC cellar at 1-4 in the conference. Make that 1-5 on Saturday. Lizards lick the Commodores in the Swamp.

Richmond @ Stony Brook...with this matchup we're departing from big boy football to focus on a couple of smaller programs that no one really cares about unless, of course, you have a kid on the team, or maybe in the band. Both teams are sitting at the bottom of the CAA. What the hell is the CAA? Thanks for asking. It's the Colonial Athletic Association. See what you learn here?  Here's another little nugget. Richmond's Brandon Jordi earned CAA honors last week after hitting 4 of 5 field goals to lead his Spiders to victory over Albany. And he could be the difference tomorrow. That's why we're going with the Spiders over the Sea Wolves.

There you have it. More valuable insight that can make you some real cash. Let's check back on Sunday to see how we did. Until then...

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

Tricks or Treats: Halloween Hangover Hits the Gridiron

We had a slight up tick in our winning picks last Saturday, going 4-4 after experiencing a dismal 2-6 in "Sideways Saturday" in which everyone in America took one in the rumpus with so many top teams tanking.

Solid performance. Yes sir.

Our rebound effort last Saturday might have fallen a little short of expectations but was long on excitement. To wit, Visor Boy escapes with a late night win after the Mizzou kicker clunks one off the uprights. Texas Tech gift wraps three early turnovers to set up the Sooners for the W. And Georgia Tech finally found a way to win in Charlottesville.

But with a new Saturday in front of us, life is good again and we're ready for another great day of college football. So ice down that case of chilly pops, fire up the grill, and let's get ready to Make Mo Money with Mark.

Here's Your Weekend Winners......

Georgia vs Florida...the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party is this season's World's Largest Yawner. Other than the Bulldogs still having an outside chance to win the SEC East, this game lacks the sizzle and excitement long associated with past get togethers in Jacksonville; it's the first time since 1991 that neither team has been ranked and both teams are 4-3. Georgia looks to have a couple of key performers back including all world Todd Gurley and solid receiver Michael Bennett who was one of the two dozen mutts that got mashed at Rocky Top three weeks ago. Florida is still trying to find a consistent offense but does have one of the best defenses in America. Key stat: 44.6% of Florida's defensive plays result in either zero or minus yardage. That's pretty stout. But not stout enough as the Dawgs dig deep for the win in Jacksonville.

Spell check aint gonna help her

#7 Miami @ #2 Florida State....this game is somewhat of a throwback to the 80's and '90s when both teams were perennial top ten regulars. Now both teams are getting their swagger back and will showcase their talents on the big stage Saturday night. But when was the last time a #7 ranked team was a three touchdown dog to another team?  Hint: never. While Jimbo Fisher is 3-0 against the Hurricanes, this season he has the phenomenal quarterback Jameis Winston (6'4, 228 lbs) who is sporting some unbelievable stats like a 70% completion rate and 23 TDs with only 4 INTs. It should be an entertaining game but no so much for Al Golden's Canes. Take the Seminoles in this one.

Tennessee @ #9 Missouri...consider this little nugget: teams that lose to Alabama also lose 86% of the time when playing an SEC opponent the following week. That doesn't bode well for Tennessee as they struggle to recover from a 45-10 Bama beat down in which they lost the game plus their quarterback. So, bUTch Jones will serve up true freshman QB Josh Dobbs to face the #3 ranked team wth INTs (15). Hopefully the kid won't quit the team as the Vols will lose its 19th straight road game against Top 25 teams. Put your money on Mizzou.

#21 Michigan @ #22 Michigan State...saying that these two teams hate each other is an understatement, especially when you consider this game having a major impact on Big Ten rankings as well as in-state recruiting and bragging rights. The Wolverines are looking for redemption in Lansing but they'll face a Spartan defense that's giving up just 12.3 point per game. We like Sparty in this one and so will you.

Pittsburgh @ Georgia Tech...how do the Panthers feel about being Tech's homecoming biatch? We'll find out Saturday night as the 5-3 Jackets can grab bowl-eligibility with a win at the Flats. With a strong road win against UVA, Tech got back to basics in running their option offense along with the defense stepping up for some key stops. So, if you're a Bee lover, you'll love the outcome Saturday night. Jackets sting the Panthers.

#11 Auburn @ Arkansas...how bad is the Razorback defense? Pretty bad as evidenced by their last two losses of 52-7 (South Carolina) and 52-0 (Alabama). So here comes Auburn averaging 511 yards per game and 37 points per contest. With Malzahn having the Tigers humming, Bret Bielema is struggling to get his Razorbacks on the same page. It's gonna take awhile. So take Auburn in this one.

#18 Oklahoma State @ #15 Texas Tech.....the Red Raiders have had a bad case of the oopsies with 19 turnovers including 12 from their freshman quarterbacks. It hurt them big time last week in their loss to the Sooners. Meanwhile, the cowpokes have only turned the ball over 10 times while being tied 8th with 13 INTs. These teams appear to be pretty evenly matched in points generated and points allowed, so turnovers could very well be the difference. UPSET ALERT:  Cowboys over the Red Raiders.

Mississippi State @ #14 South Carolina....Connor Shaw showed why he's a pretty good quarterback as he entered the game late last week and rallied his Gamecocks to a come from behind win at then #5 Missouri. He's 22-5 as the Carolina starter. Key fact to consider: Gamecocks have not lost at home since September 1, 2011. A win on Saturday ties a school record of 15 straight home victories. Go ahead and give them the W. Carolina spurs the Bulldogs.

Let's check back Sunday to see how we did. In the meantime.......

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

GONNA BE FINE IN WEEK NINE. More Winning. Less Whining.

Last week was brutal. No way to sugar coat the truth as we went 2-6 in our picks in what turned out to be the craziest Saturday so far this season. Tons of upsets with a big shake up in the Top Ten.

But all was not lost. 

Some slippage but still stellar

Although we picked South Carolina to win, the Vols pulled a big upset with a game ending field goal to give bUTch Jones his first SEC victory. And while we picked Florida to win, it's always special when the Gators lose. And then we have the Georgia Bulldogs. We picked them to win but Vandy had something to say about that in Nashville as the Bulldog nation has gone curiously quiet the last couple of weeks. That happens when you're favored to win the SEC East and even be considered to be in the National Championship mix and then you fall flat. Yes, the injury bug has bitten the mutts but the reality is their defense has been a liability all season and the inconsistent play of Murray has surfaced once again.

So where are we? After 7 weeks of success, we hit a bump in the road - just like everyone else - but we're sitting at an unbelievable 77% success rate. So, stop you're whining and let's focus on winning with another great slate of games.

Your Weekend Winners are...

 

Believe in bUTch

Tennessee @ #1 Alabama...last week we wondered if Tennessee's game with Georgia was a fluke or maybe a sign that the Vols have finally turned the corner. Well, their win over the Gamecocks went a long way to answering that as the Vols sent Visor Boy smirking back to Columbia. But tomorrow is a totally different situation as the Crimson Tide plays host to bUTch Jones and Company and the odds makers are showing zero love for Tennessee. When, you might ask, was the last time Tennessee was a 28.5 point dog? Never. So if I'm the head coach my pre-game speech is all about getting zero respect and having nothing to lose, etc., etc. Of course, the Vols have to somehow contain one of the best run games in the SEC with TJ Yeldon and local product, Kenyon Drake, and then somehow force a few turnovers to keep the game close. Last season's game notwithstanding, this match up is typically a close affair, records be damned. We think that might be the case tomorrow. Take Tennessee and the points.

#12 UCLA @ #3 Oregon...what can we say about Oregon? The quackers continue to be dominant on both sides of the ball, scoring 57+ points per game while allowing just 17 points per game. Meanwhile, the Bruin's QB Brett Hundley spent most of last week's game running for his life as Stanford sacked him 4 times. Could it get worse? You bet. Oregon ranks third in the Pac-12 with 20 sacks this season and they'll be licking their bills to go after the young UCLA o-line. Last week's loss to Stanford exposed another side of UCLA. They mustered only 266 yards of offense and only 10 points. Worse, the Bruin defense gave up 419 yds. This game could get ugly as the Ducks send the Bruins packing with another loss.

#10 Texas Tech @ #15 Oklahoma...I first saw the Red Raiders play in the 1973 Gator Bowl. That's got nothing to do with their tango tomorrow with the Sooners; just thought I'd drop it in here. In any case, we like what first year coach Kliff Kingsbury is doing in Lubbock, but the rap on TTU is they haven't really played anybody this season. Well, that changes tomorrow in Norman where the Red Raiders take on a banged up Sooner team which hasn't faced a strong passing attack like TTUs plus they've struggled to stop the run. Kingsbury has been using two different QBs this season and the Mayfield/Webb combo leads the conference in passing completions and is second in yards per game only to Oregon State. That's impressive. And that's why we're riding with the Red Raiders tomorrow and so should you.

Johnny be bad can be great

Vanderbilt @ #16 Texas A&M...Vandy is certainly feeling good after upsetting Georgia last week. But tomorrow is a totally different story as the 'Dores and Aggies meet for the first time ever. Vandy will be with out their quarterback that was injured last week but the Aggie defense is one of the poorest in the country giving up 490+ yards per game and 6.7 per play. But as you know, Texas A&M also scores a ton of points especially when Johnny Football gets hot. The Aggies are an 18 point favorite, and they'll cover. Take the Aggies and count your cash.

Tigers on their way to Atlanta

#21 South Carolina @ #5 Missouri...Tennessee gets credit for taking out another top play maker as South Carolina quarterback Connor Shaw left last week's game in Knoxville with a knee injury. That's a big deal since the Gamecocks, so dependent on Shaw's arm and legs to fuel their offense, take on a fired up Mizzou team that is now in the driver's seat in the SEC East. Who woulda thunk it? In just their second year in the SEC, the Tigers are fast becoming a force in a division long dominated by Florida and Georgia. And tomorrow Coach Pinkel has one more opportunity to show the rest of the SEC that there's a new Tiger in town. Take the Tigers. And if you're a Mizzou fan, go ahead and book your room in Atlanta.

#6 Stanford @ #25 Oregon State...if you're still up late Saturday night be sure to tune into this game because a lot is riding on this contest in terms of Pac-12 rankings. The Beavers are 4-0 in the conference and the Cardinal are coming off a big win over UCLA. Names to note for this game: OSU's Brandin Cooks, the nation's leading receiver, and Stanford's Tyler Gaffney who racked up 171 yards and 2 TDs last week in a typical smash mouth, ground and pound offense. It's only the second home game for the Beavers since September 7 but that won't matter.  Take Stanford in a solid win.

Georgia Tech @ Virginia...I'm going to watch part of this game because I want to see if Johnson's Jackets can win in Charlottesville. UVA has won the last 8 of 9 games with Tech including a 24-21 victory in 2011. The Wahoos have lost four straight coming into this game and the Jackets snapped a three game skid by blowing away Syracuse 56-0 at Bobby Dodd Stadium last week. But the Bees should take care of business because, quite honestly, Virginia stinks and Mike London more than likely will not survive this season. They've averaged only 17 points in conference games and their defense, while stingy with rushing yards, will be missing a couple of key d-line starters. Not good. Unless you're the Jackets who will sting the Cavs at Scott Stadium.

Penn State @ #4 Ohio State...this games makes for a pretty nice evening soire as two of college football's most historic programs mix it up in the Horseshoe and the Buckeyes put their 19 game winning streak on the line. We know tOSU is loaded with talent and we can recite all of Braxton Miller's stats. BUT...and this is a big but...if Penn State's frosh quarterback Christian Hackenberg has a near perfect game and plays with the same poise he had in the win over Michigan, then we like the Nittany Lions...and the 14.5 points.  Lay your money on Penn State as the Lions bite the Buckeyes.

Let's check back tomorrow to see who is winning or whining.

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

BATTING 88% COMING INTO WEEK EIGHT!

All time best. Jealous?

As we enter Week Eight, we're sporting a batting average of 88% after going 6-2 last Saturday. We missed on the Oregon and Oklahoma games but hit big with our upset special of Mizzou over Georgia.

Your Weekend Winners are...

#5 Florida State @ #3 Clemson...this easily could be the top game of the day with the ACC's first top-five showdown in 8 years. While FSU has not won in Death Valley since 2001, the Noles feature Heisman Trophy candidate Jameis Winston who has thrown for 17 TDs with only 2 INTs. Meanwhile, the Tigers have their own Heisman hopeful, Tajh Boyd, a multi-talentd QB that can kill with his legs as well as his arm. FSU's defense is giving up only 5.2 yards per pass attempt and if they can contain Boyd, the Noles may very well leave Clemson with a huge W that will impact national rankings. We're taking FSU and so should you.

#9 UCLA @ #13 Stanford...two names to know: Hundley and Hogue. UCLA's Brett Hundley lit up the scorebord last week with 410 passing yards over the Cal Golden Bears, the third highest in Bruin history. Not too shabby. Kevin Hogan, meanwhile, has been instrumental in leading Stanford to a 5-1 record but his defense is banged up and we're not sure it's up to the task of slowing down Jim Mora's offense that is averaging 46 point and 547 yards per game (5th and 7th in the county respectfully). Take UCLA and the 6 points. You'll thank me tomorrow.

Southern Cal @ Notre Dame...this is truly a pick em game. USC is trying to rebound after Kiffin gets canned and the Irish are faced with another 'must win' game. We're not fans of Trojan's interim head coach Ed Orgeron but business is business. We're going with Southern Cal to win in South Bend.

#15 Georgia @ Vanderbilt...with a date with the Gators in Jacksonville looming on the horizon, Georgia needs to win big in Nashville as they hope to rebound from last week's loss to Mizzou. Vandy is certain to throw against a soft Bulldog defense that's giving up 38 points per game. And the Dawgs may or may not have phenom Todd Gurley back from injury. Georgia has won ten in a row in Nashville. Make that eleven tommorrow. Dawgs bit the 'Dores.

#22 Florida @ #14 Missouri...we really like what we saw last week when the Tigers beat Georgia on the road in a close one. But the Gator defense is a whole other story and Mizzou will not have their outstanding QB James Franklin (lost for season with a shoulder injury). That's too much for the Tigers to overcome. Gators growl in Columbia.

Syracuse @ Georgia Tech...the Jackets are averaging over 17 pass attempts per game, the highest since Paul Johnson landed at the Flats. The ground game, however, is averaging just 5.2 yards per carry, the lowest yet during his tenure. What's this mean for GT this Saturday? After struggling the last few weeks the Jackets need to get back to basics that include long time consuming drives that net TDs, not just FGs. And, the Tech defense needs to step up its game at crunch times. Can they do it against the 'Cuse? We think so. And that's why we're putting our money on Johnson's Jackets tomorrow.

#6 LSU @ Ole Miss...the Rebs were leading the Aggies last week until Johnny Football pulled off his typical magic and scored twice late in the game to pull out a win in Oxford. That's three big losses in a row for Mister Freeze's black rebel bears (or whatever their athletic director says they can be called this week). It's a meat grinder schedule for Ole Miss and it won't be pretty in Oxford tomorrow. Mettenberger and Company lay another L on Ole Miss.

#11 South Carolina @ Tennessee...was Tennessee's effort against Georgia a fluke or shades of what's to come for an improving Vol squad? We'll find out tomorrow as Neyland Stadium welcomes the Ol Ball Coach to the banks of the Tennessee River in Knoxville. This will be Spurrier's 14th visit to Shield-Watkins Field and he has a long history of creative play calling against the Orange. Butch Jones is looking for more improvement as he rebuilds the Tennessee team "brick by brick." Let's hope they don't lay a brick tomorrow but the Cocks have way too many weapons and Spurrier is that good. Put your cash on the Cocks; Carolina wins.

Let's check back Sunday morning and count our cash.

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

SEPARATION SATURDAY...WINNERS AND LOSERS

We're another week deeper into the season and it's usually around this time that the "real" winners begin to distance themselves from the wannabees. And that's what we have this weekend with several big matchups that will make or break a program for the balance of the season...and in a few cases, may break a career or two.

So far, we've been hitting big on our picks with a 85% success rate. This week we're putting our streak on the line with some pretty aggressive picks. Take a look. Call in your bets. And let's check back on Monday.

Your Weekend Winners are...

#9 Texas A&M at Ole Miss...the Aggies had a much needed bye week to heal up some of their palyers and to shore up their leaky defense that ranks 112th nationally. Meanwhile Ole Miss has dropped two SEC games in a row and their hoping a return to The Grove will be just what they need. Don't count on it. Ole Missy drops a third as Johnny Football puts on a show.

#25 Mizzou at #7 Georgia...we use to think that Georgia had an unlimited supply of talented playmakers. But thanks to Tennessee, the Dawgs will be missing a few more starters tomorrow when they face off with the Tigers. Tailback Gurley is questionable and Kevin Marshall is out for the season. So is top receiver Scott-Wesley and sure handed Michael Bennett. And let's not forget wr Malcolm Mitchell who suffered a torn ACL doing high fives in the end zone at the beginning of the season. Meanwhile, the Georgia defense is suspect having given up some big points last week to a Vol offense that has been pretty dormant when playing quality opponents. Meanwhile, Mizzou brings in its own explosive offense led by QB James Franklin. He may not be an Aaron Murray but he'll finish the drill in the Classic City. This game could get crazy aka LSU-UGA. UPSET ALERT: Tigers pull an upset in Athens.

Cal at #11 UCLA...the Golden Bears appear to be in a tail spin having lost nine straight games to FBS opponents. Meanwhile the Bruins are heating things up in the PAC-12. UCLA is a heavy favorite, and for good reason: Cal stinks. Put your money on the boys from Westwood.

Georgia Tech at BYU...this game depends largely on which Yellow Jacket team will show up in Provo: a potent offense that can rack up the yards and control the clock? Or, a team that's forgotten how to execute its bread and butter option ground game? Despite the defense playing better, we don't see the Jackets overcoming a Cougar defense that's ranked 17th in points allowed. Lay your cash on the Cougars.

#2 Oregon @ #16 Washington...the Ducks are undefeated but really untested. That changes today as they face a really good Huskie team in Seattle. This game could get silly. Oregon's offense is ranked #2 with 630 yards per game while Washington is ranked 5th at 557 yards. The outcome is going to be decided by which team's defense can come up with some critical stops. Washington has lost nine straight to the Ducks. On Saturday, this comes to an end. Take Washington and the points. UPSET ALERT: Huskies quell the quacks.

#17 Florida @ #10 LSU...this is a pretty good matchup of one of the best defenses (Florida) taking on an explosive offense (LSU).  While the Tiger defense has given up some large numbers (460+ yards in SEC games), we think Chief Chavis will dial up plenty of pressure on the Gators and their quarterback, Tyler Murphy. We're going with the Bengal Tigers in Baton Rouge.

#19 Northwestern at Wisconsin...the Wildcats lost late last week when Ohio State had a late surge that Northwestern couldn't answer. This week NU faces the Big Ten's best rushing attack as Wisconsin averages 300+ yards per game which features tailback Melvin Gordon. As much as we like the Wildcats, we gotta go with the Badgers. Cue the brats and brew; Wisconsin wins.

#12 Oklahoma vs Texas...that easy chair that Mack Brown has been sitting in is getting hotter by the moment so tomorrow is a must-win situation for the Longhorns if their coach has any chance of surviving in Austin. Sooner QB Blake Bell is playing well with ZERO INTs in 104 pass attempts - ranked 5th among FBS schools. Oklahoma is favored by 14 big points and we see know reason to go against that spread. Take the Sooners in this year's Red River Rivalry.

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK

MEET MISTER BIG TEN.

Do you believe?

We had another great weekend with our picks, going 7 of 8 for the day. Our only mis-step was Ole Miss choking at Auburn. As I've said before, Ole Missy is one of the toughest teams to predict. You say win, they lose. You say lose, they win. Frustrating. We also came close to missing out on the Georgia-Tennessee game as the Vols and Dawgs battled to the end in what is sure to be a classic, and Ohio State escaped Evanston with a late game win over Northwestern.

But, thru six weeks, we are batting an incredible 85%. And that, my friends, translates into some serious cash and a higher income bracket.

 

Special Guest. Special Insight.

Mister Big Ten in Vegas

Today we welcome Francisco Castelan (aka Fran, Franny, Fran the Man, Pancho) as he provides a special perspective on Saturday's matchup between Northwestern and Wisconsin.

Most likely you've never met Fran but he's an important behind-the-scenes player at Woolard's Weekend Winners.  Fran is our "runner." What's that you ask? It's pretty straightforward. As we post our predictions every Friday, Fran is responsible for communicating our picks to our Las Vegas sports book where rubber meets the road. While Fran could handle all of this with a simple phone call to Vegas, he prefers flying to this desert oasis and personally submitting our picks. We're not sure but we think he has a thing for limos, show girls, and playing the tables. In any event, Fran is a high roller when it comes to making things happen.

Unique Background

Fran is "MISTER BIG TEN."

Fran at NU's Ryan Field

Having grown up in Chicago, Fran graduated from the University of Illinois where he developed his love for Big Ten football as a Fighting Illini.  Yearning for brats and brews, Fran headed north to Madison, Wisconsin where he majored in Badger football while earning a masters degree. Then, after a brief stint at the University of Wyoming where he managed their rodeo program, Fran heeded the call of the Second City and returned to Chicago where he joined Northwestern University as one of the lead academic advisors for pre-med students in Evanston. He can personally attest that the team has several future doctors currently on the gridiron.

So, Fran knows his Big Ten football: the trials and tribulations at Illinois. The 'jump around' craziness at Wisconsin. And now the resurgence of Northwestern Wildcat football, Chicago's Big Ten Team.

Fran is prepared to provide his prediction for the Wildcat-Badger contest, but first, a little Q&A with Mister Big Ten.

Time for Q&A with Mister Big Ten.

WWW:  Any big differences between Wisconsin and Northwestern football?
FRAN:   The biggest thing is the atmosphere. Madison is a true college town and the entire community is all about Badger football in the fall. With Northwestern, the football vibe is more contained to campus. Plus being located so close to Chicago there's a lot going on, not just NU football.

WWW:  There seems to be a resurgence with the Widlcat program. True?
FRAN:  Until the last few years Northwestern had hit or miss success. But now with the team's success, there's a lot of momentum building in Evanston. Really neat to see that.

Corso and Company on campus

WWW:  There was some excitement at Northwestern last week. What gives?
FRAN:   Excitement, you bet!  ESPN's College Game Day was on campus for the Ohio State-NU game, plus the Mike & Mike show set up right across from my office. So we had a lot of on-campus buzz all week and the students, faculty, and fans really

got into it. Sort of helps when you have NU alumni in high places.

Can't beat the taste of a brat

WWW:  What exactly is a Wisconsin brat and what makes them so tasty?
FRAN:   A Wisconsin brat is a German sausage (red or white) that is boiled in onions, butter, and beer. PBR is always a good option for the beer. Once it's boiled, you slap those babies on the grill. Pure heaven!

WWW:   What's your favorite football memory?
FRAN:   Hands down it's got to be the 2000 Rose Bowl in Pasadena where I saw Ron Dayne run like a maniac and rack up 200 yards on 34 carries. He was named MVP as the Badgers won 17-9 over Stanford. Great game, great experience!

Football at The Friendly Confines

WWW:  As a Cubs fan, how do you feel about Northwestern playing games at Wrigley Field?
FRAN:   First, I live about 3 blocks from Wrigley so you can't beat the convenience! But I think it's pretty cool to see Big Ten football played there, especially as Northwestern positions itself as Chicago's Big Ten Team. So far no footballs have been lost in the ivy.

WWW:  Last question. Any hope for the Cubs?
FRAN:   There's always next year!!

FRAN'S TAKE ON NORTHWESTERN vs WISCONSIN

Wisconsin rumbled with Ohio State two weeks ago and was sent into a bye week licking their wounds, while Northwestern maintained its top 20 ranking after being run over by a late surging Ohio State last week. Both of these teams are looking to bounce back and pride is on the line. It will be interesting to see how Northwestern handles a Wisconsin team that left a bad taste in their mouth on their last encounter (Badgers won 70-23 in 2010).

Ready to roll north to Camp Randall

Working at Northwestern, it was magical to see Big Ten football come to life on campus and to see ESPN and football being the focus of homecoming - truly inspiring of a building football team and fan base. Typically any sport-related energy on the NU campus is focused on golf, women’s lacrosse, soccer, engineering and being premed (not necessarily in that order).  The inside scoop? My scouts, who also happen to be premed, have brought to my attention the secret weapon for NU football this season. The Wildcats not only bring the smarts to the field, they come prepared with their latest weapon- a good night’s rest - and mandatory nap time on game day.

Wisconsin football was my first real introuction to hard core college football, so from my perspective, the Wildcats will need to be ready for a larger crowd and a larger game in Madison. Northwestern football will get a feel for a true homecoming football game at Camp Randall.

Even though the Badgers are not ranked, the offense, led by running back Melvin Gordon (68 carries/698 yards and 7 TDs for the season) will bounce back after a tough loss to Ohio State and eventually take the game. It will be a battle both in the air and on the ground from both teams. Northwestern will need to close the deal in the second half if they are going to be able to take out Wisconsin, but only if they can build a hearty lead in the first half.

I'm cheering for a breakout TD catch by Jared Abbrederis (averaging 114 receiving yards/game) to kick off the first quarter. And as those beer boiled brats are moved to the grill, the cheers will be echoing from the streets of the State Capitol all the way to the shores of Lake Michigan. Well, maybe to the shores of Lake Wisconsin.

I'm betting on the running games to be established by the second quarter - - just in time for the cheese curds to be coming out of the deep fryer. And if Wisconsin did their homework watching NU vs. Ohio State film from last week, their oversized lines should be ready for Northwestern. NU will need to bring speed and grit to a Wisconsin team that has had 13 first round draft picks in the last 15 years.

This Badger means business

So, I’m making the call that the Badgers take this one 34-27. So everyone get ready to Jump Around!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for our winning picks for Saturday!

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

OCTOBERFEST OF FOOTBALL FUN AND FROLIC

After another great weekend in which we went 6-2 in our picks, we're now getting into the thick of things as we enter Week Six with some really great games on tap. Last week we just missed on two games, otherwise we would have been a perfect 8 for 8. Ohio State escaped our upset alert game by holding off the Badgers. And the Bulldogs in Athens won a super shoot out over LSU in which neither team's defense could handle the other quarterback.

But now it's time to focus on a new slate of games, and to make some mo money.

YOUR WEEKEND WINNERS ARE...

#25 Maryland @ #8 Florida State...both teams enter this game undefeated and looking for more. Just when you think the days are limited for Randy Edsel at Maryland, the Terps have a resurgence as they head into Tally Town to take on a loaded FSU tribe that's been averaging 51 points per game. QB Famous Jameis Winston is lighting it up for the Noles, leading the ACC with a completion percentage of 74%. But tomorrow he's going up against a pretty stout Terrapin defense that's allowed only 10 points per game and has registered 17 sacks and 8 INTs in its first four matches. So, there's plenty of reason to Fear the Turtle. But with so many weapons, we're going with the Seminoles in this one.

Georgia Tech @ #14 Miami...where oh where has my offense gone, asks Coach Paul Johnson. With his Jackets playing pretty good defense last week against the Hokies, GT's option offense was MIA with only 129 rushing yards which contributed to the Jacket's 17-10 loss. What a buzz kill! But this Saturday, the Ramblin Wreck has a chance to knock off a pretty strong Hurricane team that has plenty of weapons in its arsenal. While we're tempted to take the points, we're putting our money on Al Golden's Canes to stay perfect and beat the Jackets. That's a stinger!

#10 LSU @ Mississippi State...You know what's worse than playing LSU? It's playing LSU after they've lost a close road game. You can bet that Les Miles will have his Tigers ready to work out their frustrations as they roll into Starkville...and out of Starkville with a win. Tigers handle the mutts.

#15 Washington @ #5 Stanford...another game of undefeateds! The Huskies have been putting a lot of bite into their bark, especially with their passing game, but the Cardinal has handled everything thrown their way. Stanford's QB Kevin Hogan has done nothing but win since he took over as starting QB (9-0). This game goes along way to positioning the winner for the Pac-12, and another notch in Stanford's belt for a national championship bid. Go with the Cardinal in this one.

#4 Ohio State @ #16 Northwestern...Evanston has been going crazy all week with ESPN College GameDay crews bopping all around this leafy campus. Corso and Company are setting up camp right by the Lake and you can bet that the Wildcat faithful will be turning out in purple Saturday morning. Both schools are undefeated, with tOSU surviving a scare from the Badgers last week to continue the nation's longest winning streak (17) for Urban Meyer. And both teams have similar offensive numbers. The difference? Buckeye's Braxton Miller. We've love what Fitzpatrick is doing with his Wildcats but business is business. Thus, we're backing the Buckeyes in what will be the weekend's best game.

TCU @ #11 Oklahoma...before the season I might have had this game circled since the Horned Frogs were getting plenty of pre-season hype but they've hit a couple of bumps in the road. But coming off a 48-17 rout over SMU, TCU may be ready to tango with the Sooners and re-insert  themselves in the Big 12 race. QB Trevone Boykin was hot last week as he led five straight scoring drives with TCU topping off the fourth quarter with 31 points. And this could be the perfect trap game for the Sooners as they finally won in South Bend last week, and they play Texas in the Red River Shootout next week. Stoops' crew leads the series 8-4. Make that 9-5 after tomorrow. Sooner Schooners sail.

#24 Ole Miss @ Auburn...the rebs were undefeated until they remembered they were ole miss as Mister Freeze's rebs embarrassed themselves last week in Tuscaloosa. Having averaged 490 yards and 38 points per game, the rebbys were held to 205 yds, zero points, stopped on numerous third and fourth downs and even forced into a safety late in the game. Serves long hair qb Bo Cooper right as he mouthed off all week that the Bama defense was grossly over rated. Oops. But as much as I would delight in having Auburn win, I think the rebs will regroup and rebound over the Tigers/War Eagles/Plainsmen/Dying Oaks. Ole Miss in a yawner.

AND GEORGE THE CAT'S BIG PICK OF THE WEEK featuring #6 Georgia @ Tennessee...

 Is there any chance for the malingered Vols to pull an upset over the Dawgs as UGA visits Neyland Stadium? Sure, anything can happen; that's why we play the game, right? Well, to date, Tennessee has shown us nothing to suggest that they even have a hint of a chance of winning. Zero. Nada. Zip. With a poor offense and a hit or miss defense, Tennessee can only hope that Georgia is looking the other way and sleep walks thru the game. Don't count on it. BUT...don't take my word for it. Let's see what George the Cat thinks in his BIG PICK of THE WEEK...

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK®

BIG GAMES ON TAP. TAKE YOUR PICK(s)

After going 8 for 8 last week for the second time this season, we're feeling pretty good about where we stand as we go into the fifth week of competition with a lot of confidence and bravado. So, we take a bow and now move onto this weekend's great slate of gridiron contests. And there's some good ones!

Your Weekend Winners are...

#21 Ole Miss @ #1 Alabama...the Rebs look to end a nine game skid to the Tide with its up tempo offense and the legs of QB Bo Wallace. The Rebs are averaging 38 points per game and over 250 rushing yards per game (second best in the SEC). Meanwhile Saban's crew is still trying to find a consistent offense that has struggled at times with its run game being the worst in the conference. The Tide has won the last 11 straight meetings with Ole Miss in Tuscaloosa. Tomorrow make that 12. Tide rolls.

UGA may need a bigger ice bag

#6 LSU @ #9 Georgia...there are several sub plots to this little get together in Athens. First, Georgia's record when the ESPN College Game Day crew shows up is 3-11.  Not good. Second, LSU's bad boy quarterback Zach Mettenberger is back on campus. Lock up your women. Third, LSU's new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron seems to have the Bengal Tiger offense on track and he's licking his chops to go after the young Dawg defensive secondary. But it may very well come down to which team runs the ball best: Georgia's Gurley (averages 6 yd/carry) or LSU's Hill (averages 8 yds/carry). If anything, Georgia is well tested after facing two top ten teams in the last 3 weeks: Clemson and South Carolina. So, who do we like? Take the Tigers in a tight one in Athens.

#20 Florida @ Kentucky...the only question we have about this game is Florida only favored by 13? We know the Gators have been struggling on offense and they'll be playing their second game with back up quarterback Tyler Murphy (who by the way did a great job jumping in last week when Driskel was knocked out of the game by the Vols). But the Gator defense is pretty pretty stout, only giving up an average of 212 yards per game (second best in the nation). Kentucky hasn't beaten Florida since 1986. And it aint gonna change Saturday. Gators chomp the Cats.

#23 Wisconsin @ #4 Ohio State...we love this match up. The Badger running game averages 349 yards per game, led by RB Melvin Gordon who has 7 TDs in the last four games. Gordon leads the nation with 624 rushing yards. Meanwhile, this is the first big test of the season for the Buckeyes who are coming off a 77-0 embarrassment of FCS opponent, FAMU, and allowing only 116 rushing yards per game. Braxton Miller is slated to return as tOSU's qb so it will be interesting to see if there's any rust. UPSET ALERT: we like the Badgers over the Buckeyes.

He best not bet on his Irish

#14 Oklahoma @ #22 Notre Dame...one name to remember: Blake Bell. He's the Sooner QB that posted 413 passing yards against Tulsa, and leads a Sooner crew that averages 490 yards per game. That's a lotta yards! Oklahoma is 1-9 all time against the Irish. Tomorrow that luck changes as the Sooners win in South Bend.

Virginia @ Pittsburgh...the Panthers give up a ton of points (41 per game). But they also put up a bunch of points in each game (40). The Cavs defense has looked pretty good thus far (forget their loss to Oregon. The Ducks are killing everyone) but we think they are clearly over-matched this Saturday. So we're going with Pitt over the Wahoos.

#5 Stanford @ Washington State...The Cardinal have a long winning streak with eleven games, second only to Ohio State's sixteen, and are averaging 36+ points a game. Meanwhile the Cougar defense has been yielding only 12 points a game. This game is quite a contrast. Stanford loves to run the ball (211 yds/game) while WSU prefers the passing game (329 yds/game) with some very talented receivers including sophomore Gabe Marks, second in the Pac-12 with 31 catches. So this game could come down to turnovers and special teams. But who knows? We're going with Stanford as they continue to build their case for top ranking. Stanford over the Cougars.

#10 Texas A&M @ Arkansas...the Aggies go on the road for the first time this season as they travel to Fayetteville. Johnny Brat will certainly put up the yards and points (they average over 600 yds per game) but the Aggie defense will be in for a challenge as they face a different offensive flavor with the Razorbacks: power football, courtesy the Big Ten and Wisconsin's Bret Bielema. But the Aggies have too much firepower. Aggies over the 'Backs.

 Check back on Monday to see how we fared. Enjoy your Saturday.

Make Mo' Money with Mark®

WIND UP SUMMER WITH OUR WEEKEND WINNERS.

As we transition from summer to fall this Saturday, it's the perfect time to kickoff the changing of the seasons with a full slate of winning game picks. And since we're 21-3 thus far, you can feel pretty confident that we'll steer you straight...right into a pile of cash. Cha ching, baby.

Your Weekend Winners are...

Tennessee @ #19 Florida...the Tennessee team that you'll see tomorrow is not the team that BuTch Jones will put on the field next season or the season after. This is definitely a team in transition. So...if you're a Vol fan don't panic and call your coach nasty names after the Gators win for the ninth time tomorrow. The UT QB is the pivotal position for the kind of offense that Jones ran at Cinncinati (think up tempo, spread option of Oregon) and Worley is not that kind of quarterback. He's too slow. While this Gator team is not like the ones of old, Tennessee will have to pound the ball and control the clock to have a chance in the Swamp. Gators growl loudly with this W. And George the Cat concurs.

Gaffney is a difference maker

#5 Stanford @ #23 Arizona State...if Stanford wants to make a case for being top ranked there's no better time than now with a victory over the Sun Devils. Arizona State, which got real lucky with bad officiating in its win over Wisconsin, must have another great outing from QB Kelly who has thrown 13 TD passes with only interception in the last five games. Meanwhile the Cardinal is looking to go 3-0 for the fourth straight year and are 8-1 in their last nine home games against ranked opponents. Look for Stanford's rb Gaffney to be play a major role. Cardinal over the Sun Devils.

Auburn @ #6 LSU...the side story to this match up involves the quarterbacks that were bounced out of Georgia for various indiscretions. LSU's Mettenberger is coming into his own as new offensive coordinator Cameron seems to have the Tigers performing its best since the 2007 season. Meanwhile, the Auburn Tigers/War Eagles/Plainsmen/Dying Oaks are 3-0 and feeling rather confident. But, this will be qb Nick Marshall's first time on the road and we all know what happens at night games in Baton Rouge. Bengal Tigers over Aubbie.

Vad Lee, the head Bee

North Carolina @ Georgia Tech...It's way too early to get all gooey over GT's 2-0 start since their opponents to date haven't been that stellar. And it comes as no surprise that the Jackets are ranked 3rd in rushing offense with an average of 356 yards per game. That's their trademark. But now the Swarm seem to have a new wrinkle with an effective passing game led by sophomore qb Vad Lee who threw for four touchdown in last week's 38-14 win over Duke. Plus new defensive coordinator Ted Roof seems to have the Jacket defensive playing much better than seasons past. Amen for that. It's going to be a Buzz-kill for the Tar Heels as the Bees sting UNC in Atlanta.

Michigan State @ #22 Notre Dame...this match up could be the most interesting of the weekend as Notre Dame's defense is lacking the players they had last season when they ranked second in the nation. Meanwhile the solid offense of the Irish will face the country's toughest defense which has only yielded an average of 177 yards per game. On the other side of the ball, the Spartans rang up 547 yards of offense last week including 277 yards on the ground. Keep your eye on MSU's defensive end, Shalique Calhoun, who has scored three touchdowns off turnovers. In an upset, Spartans spoil Irish party in South Bend.

Man under fire needs big win bad

Kansas State @ Texas...the Longhorns are looking to avoid their first 1-3 start since 1956, the year before Darrell Royal arrived in Austin. Standing in their way is Bill Snyder and his Wildcats who have won five in a row over Texas. While K-State has not played any real teams yet, the Horns have been forced to juggle their qbs due to injury. It will be super close, but go with Texas. Mack Brown needs the love.

Missouri @ Indiana...this is an interesting SEC vs Big Ten matchup as Mizzou faces its first real opponent after beating Murray State and Toledo at home. QB James Franklin has been pretty efficient with his 67% completion rate. Meanwhile the Hoosiers haven't shown much firepower as they stumbled in their loss to Navy. We see the Tigers biting Indiana on Saturday.

Pittsburgh @ Duke...we have tremendous respect for Coach Cut and what he's been able to do in Durham but the Blue Devils will have their hands full on Saturday. The Pitt offense is averaging 7.7 yards per play and Duke has struggled to stop quality opponents. It's an important game for both teams because neither wish to start 0-2 in conference play. Panthers claw the dookies for a win.

Let's check back on Monday to see how everyone fared. In the meantime enjoy Saturday and....

Make Mo' Money with Mark®