THE FINAL WEEK:  Put a fork in it.

The 2015 season has zipped by and we're ready to cap the season with Conference Championship Saturday.

It goes without saying that several of these games have national championship implications in which teams have the opportunity to make a final statement to the College Football Playoff committee which announces its final selections Sunday afternoon.

Before we dive into our championship picks, let's do a quick rewind of last weekend.

WEEKEND REWIND

Cha ching baby

We finished strong with a 6-2 weekend, only missing on Notre Dame and Baylor, both pretty close games decided late.

For the season, we've gone 59% in winning picks (see the pretty chart on the right). While we strive for the high '60s, the first third of the season was pretty zany with lots of upsets and last minute outcomes. Nevertheless, we still made enough cash to get momma something nice for Christmas and still have enough left over to continue decking out our man cave (aka headquarters for Woolard's Weekend Winners). I can always use another leather club chair along with some LED lighting for the bar cabinet. 


SIDELINES

Another season pissed away

• Hey Big 12. Where's your conference championship game??  The Big 12 continues to duck a conference championship game but it looks like Oklahoma is firmly planted in the playoff mix. And Baylor, TCU and Okie State will all end up in pretty nice bowl games. Yet, the conference is willing to forgo a pile of cash by not having a championship game. How long does that last?

• Ole Miss...we feel your pain.  It's one more season in which the Black Rebel Bears fall short of making it to the Georgia Dome. Despite knocking off division powers like Alabama, Auburn, LSU, the Rebs fell to Florida and were nipped 53-52 by Arkansas. Ole Miss along with Vandy and Kentucky are the only SEC teams yet to play in the SEC Championship game. Maybe next year.

Johnson under house arrest for bad season

• Biggest disappointments of 2015. Given all the preseason hoopla there's probably no bigger busts than Auburn, Georgia, and Georgia Tech. The Tigers were picked to win the West and UGA - once again - failed to deliver despite having their sixth consecutive awesome recruiting class. I guess that's why Mark Richt is no longer in Athens. Coming off a great bowl win, the Yellow Jackets were picked by many to win the ACC. Their season was nothing less than horrendous, going 3-9 (1-7 conference). Paul Johnson is benefiting from a relatively quiet fan base, otherwise he'd be feeling a ton of heat right about now. Next season he will.

I beat 3 winning teams. Time to pay.

• Is mediocrity deserving of a pay raise? The talk in Knoxville this week is all about Butch Jones getting a salary increase and contract extension. Hmmmm. While an 8-4 record is an improvement, only three of the wins were over teams with winning records (Georgia, Bowling Green, and Western Carolina). And WCU is a FCS school! Plus Butch and company blew fourth quarter leads in all of their four losses. I realize that Tennessee AD Dave Hart has no choice. It's part of the game in keeping your head coach happy. And the last thing that Tennessee needs is another coaching change. But winning games over weiner schools while losing against quality big boy football schools is not the way to earn pay increases and contract extensions. Hopefully the bar is higher next year and Butch surprises us all. Vol fans can only hope.

 Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #14...Conference Champions...

Alabama vs Florida...there are a lot of storylines associated with this game. If Florida upsets Bama, then the SEC will be shut out of the College Football Playoff. If Bama rb Derrick Henry has a strong game, he's a lock for the 2015 Heistman Trophy. Kirby Smart is coaching in his last game before he moves to Athens. Florida brings a pretty stout defense to Atlanta. The Gators are highly ranked in all of the defensive metrics: touchdowns allowed, passing defense, etc. If they can find a way to bottle up Henry, then the Gators have a chance. We don't see that happening. Take the Tide for the SEC title.

Iowa vs Michigan State...the undefeated Hawkeyes are probably the least respected team despite their best season in 93 years. And Michigan State is one bad call away from its own perfect season. This should be a game that goes down to the wire. The difference? Spartan qb Connor Cook, the Big Ten's best quarterback and wr Aaron Burbridge, the Big Ten's top receiver. That duo alone is too much for the Hawkeyes to handle. Sparty wins another and makes its case for the CFP.

Southern Cal vs Stanford...the Cardinal still have a shot at the CFP with a win over the Trojans and a Clemson or Alabama loss, so there's plenty of incentive for Dave Shaw's Stanford club to win. QB Kevin Hogan is coming off a big win over Notre Dame while So Cal posted a huge 40-21 win over rival UCLA last week. The Trojans are riding a wave out rushing opponents in all seven games since Clay Helton took over as head coach. We like the Trojans in this one. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take Southern Cal over the Cardinal.

Clemson @ North Carolina...Dabo Sweeney's Tigers are one win from securing the top spot in the CFP. But the Tar Heels are not going down without a fight coming off a school record of 11 straight wins and leading the ACC in scoring (41.2 points). The key to this game is simply which defense plays the best. In a close one, we're laying our chips on Deshaun Watson to have another stand out game and secure the ACC title for his Tigers. Clemson clips the Heels.

Temple vs Houston...the Cougars have a hot offense but look for the Owls defense to cool it off. Key guy to watch is Temple's senior lb Tyler Matakevich, AAC defensive player of the year. Matakevich, the only FBS player to lead his team in tackles every games, has 118 tackles and 5 interceptions. In another UPSET SPECIAL, fly with the Owls. Temple topples Houston.

Baylor vs Texas...this is not a conference title game as noted earlier but Baylor is playing for a Sugar Bowl berth after losing in double overtime to TCU last week. The only way that the Bears lose this one is if the offense oversleeps and misses the team bus. Baylor leads the country in scoring (50+ points) and total offense (616 yards per game). Another loss adds to Charlie Strong's growing angst. Bet on the Bears to bury the cows.

Good luck Saturday.
MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

WEEK THIRTEEN:  Don't Be A Turkey. Be A Winner.

As we get closer to wrapping up the 2015 season, this Saturday features perhaps the best line up of the fall with rivalry games having conference title ramifications.

Several games are stacked up at the 3:00 and 7:00 TV time slots so you might want to pick up some extra flat screens on Black Friday so you can catch all of the action. And cost shouldn't be an issue since you've been Making Mo' Money this season, right?

WEEKEND REWIND
We went 5-3 last weekend and hit big time on the Michigan State UPSET SPECIAL over Ohio State. We also hit on Tennessee NOT covering the point spread over Mizzou. That translates into some extra holiday cash. Let's keep it rolling this week.

SIDELINES
• Remember the cupcakes last Saturday??  Well, it took an overtime period for Georgia overtime to beat Georgia Southern. Same thing for  Florida to beat Florida Atlantic. And South Carolina got beat by The Citadel. This should tell you how bad the SEC East is this season. 

Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #13...The Great Eight™...

Georgia @ Georgia Tech...both teams have had less than spectacular seasons especially the 3-8 Jackets that were preseason favorites to win the ACC. They will miss out on a bowl game for the first time in 18 seasons. But this is the Clean Old Fashioned Hate game in which bitter instate rivals knock heads for bragging rights. Tech's QB Justin Thomas is doubtful for the game which limits the Bees offense. Tech's biggest challenge will be limiting the Bulldog passing game and keeping tabs on rb Sony Michel. Sorry Tech fans. UGA barks loudly in this one with a win at Bobby Dobb.

#8 Ohio State @ #12 Michigan...the Buckeyes limp into Ann Arbor licking their wounds from its last minute loss to Michigan State. Ohio State has won the last ten of eleven games over the Wolverines. OSU rb Ezekial Elliott leads the Big Ten with 143+ rush yards per game and will be a load to stop IF he and his fellow Buckeyes can regroup and refocus from last week. We don't see Urban Meyer losing two games in a row. Put your bucks on the Buckeyes. Ohio State wins a close one.

#7 Baylor @ #15 TCU...if you're looking for a high scoring game this weekend, then this is the game for you. Baylor leads the nation in scoring (53.8 points) and total offense (644 yards). The only thing that might hamper the Bears' scoring ability is their use of third team QB Chris Johnson, who is filling in for injured QB Jarrett Stidham, who was filling in for injured first team QB Seth Russell. Get that? Meanwhile TCU puts up a ton of points as well. Bears will edge out the Froggies.

#19 Ole Miss @ #23 Mississippi State...the 88th Battle for the Golden Egg features two of the top quarterbacks in the SEC, Chad Kelly and Dak Prescott. Reb's Kelly ranks first in passing yards and total touchdowns as the Ole Miss leads the SEC in total offense of 350+ yards per game. Prescott is coming off a huge win over Arkansas with 550 yards of offense and seven TDs. Look for Ole Miss to grab the Golden Egg.

#14 Florida State @ #10 Florida...first year coach Jim McElwaine has the Gators playing well but we think that stops this weekend when FSU visits Gainesville. Noles QB Sean Mauire has been playing lights out and has three dangerous receivers to work with: Travis Rudolph, Kermit Whitfield, and Jesus Wilson. They'll being going up against a pretty good Florida defense that has held opponents to fewer that 14 points in eight games and is third in the nation allowing 14.5 points per game. In a close one, take the Noles over the Gators.

#4 Notre Dame @ #13 Stanford...the 10-1 Irish head west to take on the 9-2 Stanford Cardinal, leading the series19-10, but only 6-7 at Stanford. Notre Dame can beef up its case for a CFP spot with a win but they have to contain Stanford's Heisman candidate rb Christian McCaffrey who's coming off a school record effort at Cal. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take the Irish over the Cardinal.

#5 Oklahoma @ #9 Oklahoma State...in another big rivalry game, Bedlam features two of the nation's top scoring teams. The Sooners has dominated this series with an impressive 84-18-7 record. Sooner QB Baker Mayfield has been cleared from a concussion and can help the Sooners lock up the Big 12 title as well as soldifying their CFP spot. This is another game in which 100+ points could be scored...defense is not a priority in this conference. In a big shoot out take the Sooner Schooners over the Cowpokes.

#2 Alabama @ Auburn...if you're a Tiger/War Eagle/Plainsmen/Dying Oaks fan, this season has been painful to say the least, especially after being a preseason favorite to win the SEC West. And it doesn't get any better for Auburn as they host the hot Tide which has won 8 straight games. With the win, Bama wraps up its ticket for the SEC Championship Game and gets closer to securing a CFP spot. Bama's Derrick Henry will be too much for Aubbie to handle. Take the Tide over Auburn.

Good luck this Weekend.
MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

WEEK TWELVE:   FINAL LAP COMING UP
Last Saturday was a day of ups and downs with WWW posting 5-3 numbers. We won big on Tennessee not covering the spread and Houston knocking off Memphis. Georgia pulled out the stops to beat Auburn so we went sideways on that one as well as missing the LSU game as the Tigers lost their second game in a row. This Saturday is loaded with some really big games that have conference title and national playoff ramifications. It will be a great day for college football.

SIDELINES

• What's with all the cupcakes in mid-November??  Alabama vs Charleston Southern? Georgia vs Georgia Southern?  Florida vs Florida Atlantic? South Carolina vs The Citadel? There's an old adage, "They remember what you do in November", when it comes to bowl game selections and post season honors. And with most other schools playing high stake games this weekend, these cupcake games make no sense and the paying fan deserves better, especially as we wrap up the season.

• Hot Seat Update...with LSU in a tailspin, Les Miles has been mentioned to be on the hot seat. That's ridiculous. And the Charlie Strong rumors at Texas have picked up steam with the Longhorns supposedly preparing to make Nick Saban an offer he can't refuse, which of course triggers speculation about his replacement at Alabama. Note to Texas: your job is not as great as you think so you better pony up some really serious cash if you want to lure Saban away from the best job in college football. And throw in some oil wells, too.

A WORD FROM MISTER BIG TEN

Clash of favorites

If you've followed Woolard's Weekend Winners then you're familiar with Mister Big Ten. And no one is more familiar with the Big Ten then him.

Mister Big Ten did his undergrad at Illinois, graduate degree at Wisconsin, and then worked at Northwestern for the last several years, not to mention living in the Windy City, smack dab in the middle of Big Ten country. He knows his Big Ten football. He's also our Vegas connection and handles our business with his associates in the Desert.

So, we've asked Mister Big Ten to share his thoughts on this Saturday's Northwestern-Wisconsin game; a matchup that truly conflicts Mister Big Ten since he follows both teams passionately.

Cue the beer and brats. Here's Mister Big Ten.

Take Wisconsin at home for Senior Day
While both Wisconsin and Northwestern have dipped in and out of the top 25 standing this season, the recent resurgence into the AP Polls for both teams brings into question which team will find the missing key for this Saturday’s matchup in Madtown.  

Both teams are coming off tight wins last week and both are sitting at 8-2.  The biggest shocker was Northwestern having to climb back to win against a Purdue team that has hung out at the bottom of the division all season.  Northwestern pulled out the W but this week look for the Badgers to give their senior’s a sendoff to remember.

Key match ups to watch include a defensive line for Wisconsin that has kept their season alive as the offense has struggled to protect their slinger. Stave, a Wisconsin native, has had a rough year with 8 interceptions and the Wisconsin running game has slipped this year to an overall 89th ranking nationally after being ranked 3rd last year. 

This season Northwestern’s offense has proven that they can bounce back in the 4th quarter.  The Wildcat’s offense has shown some consistency for the most part but their quarterback, true freshman Clayton Thorson, still has some maturing to do as he will face an experienced Wisconsin defense.  

If Wisconsin can start first team running back Corey Clement, the Badger quarterback will have some breathing room and Clement will take the rock and control the clock.  

This rivalry has the last 8 consecutive games going to the home team and I give the nod to Wisconsin to return the favor from last year’s loss at Northwestern.  Take the Badgers, along with the beer and brats.
Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #12...The Great Eight™...

Tennessee @ Missouri...the Vols head to the cold climes of Columbia hoping to keep their win streak going. But after a sluggish performance last week against a vastly undermanned North Texas team, we're not totally sold on the Big Orange leaving with a win. Missouri has won all three meetings with the Vols, and Tennessee has not won four consecutive games since 2010. The Tigers are 5th in the nation in scoring defense, allowing just 14.7 points per game. Sorry Vol fans. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take Pinkel's Tigers over Tennessee.

#20 Northwestern @ #21 Wisconsin...the Badgers are still in the hunt for a division championship so a win over the Wildcats is absolutely critical. The good news is that Wisconsin plays tough at home, having allowed only three touchdowns in six home games, and allowing only five points per game at Camp Randall this season. That's pretty stout. In a close one, take the Badgers over the Cats.

#17 LSU @ #25 Mississippi...if the quarterback play in last week's loss to Arkansas is any indication of LSU's ability to win key games, then the Tigers are in a world of hurt. Add to this opponents' ability to limit Leonard Fournette's rush yardage. Meanwhile Rebel qb Chad Kelly is on the verge of setting several school records (bypassing Eli Manning). If the Ole Miss defense can regroup and play tough, then Mister Freeze's team can celebrate in the Grove. Take the Rebs over the Bayou Bengals.

#11 TCU @ #7 Oklahoma...the Frogs will be missing senior receiver Josh Doctson and qb Trevone Boykin is iffy with a bad ankle sprain. Meanwhile, Sooner qb Baker Mayfield leads a pretty potent offense along with rb Samaje Perrin and wr Sterling Shephard. Both teams are 9-1 and both teams need to win to keep pace with Oklahoma State. We don't think the Frogs have enough hop to get over the Sooner Schooners. Take Oklahoma in this one.

#10 Baylor @ #4 Oklahoma State...the undefeated Cowpokes are looking for respect from the CFP committee and hope to inch closer to the sacred four by beating the Bears in a "pickem" game. A win tomorrow would be Okie State's 13th in a row, matching the record set in 1944-1946. Baylor has not won a road game in this series since 1939. That's a long long time. And it doesn't change tomorrow as the Cowpokes continue their undefeated run and make life miserable for the CFP committee. Pokes over the Bears.

#9 Michigan State @ #2 Ohio State...there is some doubt about Spartan qb Connor Cook's ability to play effectively since getting banged up last week against Maryland. And the 9-1 Spartans will need all hands on deck to hang with the undefeated Buckeyes. Key player to watch is Ohio State's junior running back Ezekial Elliott who has racked up 15 consecutive 100 yard games and is close to passing Eddie George's records at tOSU. This game should be a dandy and a close one...so close that we don't think Ohio State will cover its 13.5 point spread. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take the Spartans and the points.

#22 Southern Cal @ #23 Oregon...both teams control their destinies and have legitimate shots at winning their respective Pac-12 divisions. Southern Cal has rebounded nicely since the head coaching change and they feature one of the country's top qbs, Cody Kessler, a Unitas finalist. The Ducks are coming off a huge win over Stanford and look for their run game to keep clicking as the best in the Pac-12. This will be a dandy. In another UPSET SPECIAL, take the Trojans over the Ducks.

UCLA @ #18 Utah...Josh Rosen, Bruin freshman qb, has been solid all season with almost 3,000 passing yards. Add in the running of tailback Paul Perkins and you have a pretty potent offense that the Utes have to contain in order to win. The Utes' big gun, Devontae Booker, is out with knee surgery and we're not sure if Utah has an answer at running back. So...bet on the Bruins to beat the favored Utes in another UPSET SPECIAL.

Good luck this Weekend.
MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

WEEK ELEVEN: Time to Make Mo Money

Crazy outcomes impacted our numbers last weekend as we posted a 4-4 record.

The good news is that we hit on two delicious UPSET SPECIALS with Navy upsetting Memphis and South Carolina keeping Tennessee from covering the 17 point spread. Only a Gamecock fumble with seconds left spared the Vols from another embarrassing loss.

We just missed on Ole Miss beating Arkansas as the Razorbacks pulled off a bizarre play to keep a scoring driving alive. WR Hunter Henry flung a ball backwards which was picked up by a teammate who ran for a first down. Arky forced overtime to beat the Rebels. The Rebels will most likely miss out on a trip to Atlanta again as Alabama gains control of the SEC West.

HELLO. GOODBYE.
Who anticipated the disappearing act that Leonard Fournette pulled in the LSU-Alabama game in which he was limited to just 31 rushing yards. Say goodbye to the Heisman, pal. Meanwhile Bama's Derrick Henry motored for 210 yards and three touchdowns on 38 carries. Say hello to the Heisman.  Needless to say, we missed on this Upset Special.

TECHNOLOGY FAILS
In the age of video review and analysis, it's shocking that an officiating crew blew yet another call. Nebraska pulls off a win over #7 Michigan State despite a Husker wide receiver catching a touchdown pass after he came out of bounds at the 3 yard line. The refs ruled he was forced out, making the catch legal. Bad call. Spartans got ripped.

This is the second time in the last three weeks in which video review failed miserably. Miami's winning score over Duke should have been whistled dead but the review was mishandled and Duke was ripped off. No excuse for this, especially with multiple camera angles and supposedly skilled officials.  Let's hope these were only rare aberrations.

Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #11...The Great Eight™...

#12 Oklahoma @ #4 Baylor...if you like an offensive game then be sure to tune in Saturday night as these two Big 12 teams tangle. The Sooners offense has hit high gear as they have put up 52+ points in their last four games. The Bears replacement qb demonstrated last week that he is more than capable as he threw for 419 yards to beat K-State. Baylor has won the three of the last four games with Oklahoma. Make that four of five on Saturday. Bears dump on Sooners.

#25 Memphis @ #16 Houston...Tiger High has the second longest road winning streak with eight straight as they head to Houston to take on the red hot, undefeated Cougars. Both teams love to run the ball and feature the AAC's top scoring offense with both schools averaging 44+ points per game. Houston has won ten straight games. Tomorrow the Cougs make it eleven. Cougars claw the Tigers.

#3 Alabama @ #20 Mississippi State...this could be the last major hurdle for Bama to clear on their way to a CFP matchup. After losing earlier to Ole Miss, Bama has reeled off six straight wins including victories over three teams that were ranked in the top ten at the time. And last week's dominating win over the Bengal Tigers shows us that Saban has the Tide ready to roll. Take the Tide over the Cowbells.

Oregon @ #7 Stanford...the Cardinal can clinch the Pac-12 North and keep its CFP hopes alive by beating the Ducks who have surged the last three weeks. Stanford is 28-3 at home under coach David Shaw. They'll make that 29 on Saturday.  Cardinal plucks the Ducks.

Georgia @ Auburn...my how the mighty have fallen. These two pre-season favorites have been relegated to a noon kickoff on the Plains. This is the South's Oldest Rivalry and the teams meet for the 119th time with the series tied at 55-55-8. Auburn is banking on qb Jeremy Johnson to continue his rebound, at least that's what Malzahn is hoping. We think the mutts can make things happen. Take UGA in an UPSET SPECIAL over the Tigers/War Eagles/Plainsmen/Dying Oaks.

Miami @ #17 North Carolina...the Tar Heels piled on the points last week as they pummeled Duke 66-31, the most points it has ever scored in an ACC game. UNC qb Marquie Williams threw for a school record 494 yards and the Heels seems to be peaking at the right time. A win today clinches a berth in the ACC Championship Game versus Clemson. That's going to happen. Take the Heels over the Canes.

North Texas @ Tennessee...normally we wouldn't touch this game. But the Vols are favored by 41 points?? No way they cover that...NO. WAY.  Make some green. Take the Mean Green and the points. 

Arkansas @ #9 LSU...this should be a pretty good matchup as the Bengal Tigers hope to rebound from an embarrassing showing against Alabama. Meanwhile the Razorbacks are getting hot. LSU has only lost two games in a row under Les Miles.  Both losses were to Arkansas. Look for Leonard Fournette to get back on track and run for 100+ yards again. Tigers will have Miles in smiles again. LSU chomps the Hogs.

Good luck this Weekend.
MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

DO IT AGAIN IN WEEK TEN

Last Saturday we posted a 7-1 winning effort which boosted our overall season numbers as well as our bank account.

Our goal this Saturday is to do it again. But first, let's check in with some of our subscribers.

Time to Open the Ol' Mailbag

Feedback from our fans

Periodically we receive feedback from our subscribers. Often we're questioned about our picks or perhaps a differing point of view on a topic that we've touched on. And, occasionally, subscribers offer thanks for helping them Make Mo' Money. Anyway, here a few highlights from recent fan mail:

From "Tide Terrific"..."another game with Tennessee. Another win for Bama. RTR" (yep. wait till next year in Knoxville)

From "War Beagle"..."we still have a shot" (of what? Tequila??)

From "I Know Bo"..."is Nebraska still on your probation list?" (Yes. Yes they are. But still on our "get well" card list)

From "Total Wreck"... "thanks again for picking against us. GT won." (hey, props for knocking off FSU. How's that Virginia game working for you?)

From "Chowder Head"..."thanks for including Harvard. It's nice to be rich and successful." (yeah, but you're ugly).

Let us hear from you. You can email us or use the nifty comment box down below. Best comment of the season will get an official Woolard's Weekend Winners coffee cup.

Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #10...The Great Eight™...

#5 TCU @ #12 Oklahoma State...this could be one of the top two games of the day with both schools 8-0, and both teams putting up monster points. TCU averages over 49 points a game; OSU 44. If you love offensive football, then you'll love this matchup. The Frog's Trevone Boykin will be the difference as TCU secures a shot at the Big 12 crown. Take the Frogs over the Cowpokes.

South Carolina @ Tennessee...the Vols should handle the Gamecocks if they continue to play well n all facets: offense, defense, special teams. Tennessee is averaging over 36 points a game; USC 21 points. The bad news for the Vols, though, is the defense gives up over 400 yards per game. South Carolina will be led by local boy, qb Lorenzo Nunez (Harrison High School, Cobb County). He's a pretty shifty qb which might help against a much improved pass rush from the Vols. The line of this game (17 points) is just to deelish to ignore. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take the Gamecocks and the points.

#17 Florida State @ #3 Clemson...Dabo's team is sitting atop of the CFP initial rankings but faces some upcoming tough games beginning with visiting FSU. This game not only has ACC Atlantic Division ramifications but national championship as well. The 12 point line for Clemson is mighty tempting but we think qb Deshaun Watson is too much of a playmaker for Clemson to fall short. Take Clemson in a good one over the Seminoles.

#4 LSU @ #7 Alabama...this game thins the ranks of schools shooting for the SEC West lead. The Bayou Bengals feature rb Leonard Fournette who has had 9 straight 100+ rushing games. If Bama wants to beat LSU then they have to shut them down in the first half. The Tigers have outscored opponents 63-10 in the first quarter and 124-51 in the first half. Bama has a pretty stout run defense so Miles needs a great performance from qb Brandon Harris for LSU to leave Tuska-Loser with a W. The line is Alabama -7. In another UPSET SPECIAL, take the Tigers and the points.

Penn State @ Northwestern...it's no secret that the Wildcats have struggled to put points on the board this season with 20.9 points per game being the lowest in the Big Ten. And now they face a pretty aggressive defense in the Nittany Lions which lead the nation in sacks with 39, and an FBS leading 14.5 by de Carl Nassib. Plus qb Christian Hackenberg is starting to live up to his billing. Could be a long day in Evanston.  In an UPSET SPECIAL, run with Penn State.

Navy @ #15 Memphis...if undefeated Tiger High continues its habit of starting off slow they may find themselves in trouble with Navy's time consuming triple option offense which averages over 319 yards per game. The Middies are led by standout qb Keenan Reynolds who could be the difference maker tomorrow night. This is another one which we like the underdog and the points (8). In an UPSET SPECIAL, Navy sinks the Tiggers.

Arkansas @ #19 Ole Miss...this is a huge game for Mister Freeze as the Rebs control their own destiny in the SEC West. With a win over Bama, the Ole Miss crowd have a pretty good shot at finally landing in Atlanta for the SEC Championship Game by taking care of business. But the Hogs are not to be taken lightly as they've put up 117 points in the last two games. The 11 point spread is pretty tempting but we think Ole Miss will be too much for the Razorbacks. The Rebs lead the SEC in scoring (39.4) and total offense (519 yards). Factor in a healthy de Robert Nkimdiche and it's party time in the Grove. Take Ole Miss over the piggies.

#8 Notre Dame @ Pittsburgh...this noon time game features a hot Irish team whose only loss is to Clemson by 2 points. They showed their brass last week by gutting out a tough win over Temple and are sitting at #5 in the new CFP rankings. Irish qb DeShone Kinzer became the second qb in Notre Dame history to throw for at least 200 yards and rush for at least 100 in the same game. He is a difference maker and will be too tough for the Panthers to handle. The Irish will win, but this will be a tight one in the Steel City. Take Notre Dame over Pitt.

Good luck this Weekend.
MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

WE SHINED IN WEEK NINE

Trend be looking good

We went 7 & 1 last Saturday which is pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty good. The only game we missed on was Georgia Tech's lackluster performance against Virginia. But we'll take 7 winning picks any day of the week.

After a bumpy four week period at the beginning of the season, we've rebounded very nicely which means we're back to making some green especially when we hit on UPSET SPECIALS. So take a moment and start thinking about how you're gonna spend your extra cash....which leads me to the following announcement.

NEW MAN CAVE FOR WOOLARD'S WEEKEND WINNERS

Command center for WWW where Mo Money is Made

We had hoped to unveil our new game day headquarters back in late August but we ran into some technical delays which couldn't be avoided. But here it is: a multi screen, multi seat gathering spot from which we can monitor multiple games while keeping a close eye on Vegas action. During the week it doubles as work space for real client work, thus providing a tasty write off. So it's a win-win scenario. If you're ever in the hood during game day, give us a jingle. There's more than enough cold libations and delish eats for everyone. Nothing but the best for our subscribers.

SIDELINES

• if ever there was a mis-justice in officiating it's the blown call in Miami's last play of the game in which 8 lateral passes were employed on the way to its game winning touchdown over Duke. So it appeared. But early in the sequence it was clear that a Miami player's knee touched the ground prior to lateraling the ball, thus game over. But the ACC crew missed it AND so did the Video Review crew which took over nine minutes to review the play! In fact, according to the ACC, the officiating crew made four major errors during the last play. BUT yet, the ACC will not reverse the outcome despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. AND to add insult to injury, the ACC named Corn Elder as the ACC Special Teams Player of the Week for scoring the touchdown. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? Thus, the ACC gets our D-Bag of the Week Award.

• the HOT SEAT is heating up. We've just crossed over into the second half of the season and already we've seen a number of firings and retirements among head coaches. Good guy Frank Beamer is stepping down at Va Tech, Spurrier has left South Carolina, and George O'Leary is gone from UCF. Miami fired Al Golden last week, Maryland cut loose Randy Edsall before that, Steve Sarkisian was sent packing at USC. And Tim Beckman was canned the week before the season even started at Illinois. With all of this activity, the coaching carousel will be spinning overtime as schools look for replacements which of course triggers more openings down the line.

With that in mind, here's Woolard's Weekend Winners HOT SEAT listing, at least for now:
Mike London, Virginia...just a matter of time.
Charlie Strong, Texas...he may survive this season. Then again, he may not.
Mark Richt, Georgia...calls for his firing getting louder and louder with the national media piling on as well.
Mike MacIntyre, Colorado...losing 20 consecutive games to ranked teams ain't helping. Neither are his sideline altercations.
Paul Rhoads, Iowa State... a shutout over Texas is not what it used to be. Rhoads may be hitting the road before too long.

On the WARMING PLATE:
Butch Jones, Tennessee...2016 will be the year to produce with no excuses. Otherwise, he moves to the HOT SEAT big time.
Mike Riley, Nebraska...just a matter of time before Nebraska realizes it made a mistake in his hiring (not to mention the firing of Bo). The Husker AD has already issued the dreaded "vote of confidence."
Mike Leach, Washington State...a loss to FCS Portland State has Cougar fans royally pissed at the mad pirate and might make him walk the plank.

 

We'll be back later this week with your GREAT EIGHT WINNING PICKS. ®

In the meantime, have a winning day.

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

TIME TO SHINE IN WEEK NINE

You're probably smack dab in the middle of your Halloween office party so we'll jump right into what you need to know to Make Mo' Money this weekend. And hey, save me the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, please. Cold weather is headed our way and I need the extra calories. Plus chocolate goes well with Merlot.

Weekend Rewind

We went 5-3 last Saturday BUT hit on two big UPSET SPECIALS: Duke over Virginia Tech and Tennessee covering the points in their classic hook up with Alabama, coming darn close to knocking off the #8 Tide 19-14. And it took a miracle at Techwood for the Rambling Wreck to upset Florida State.

Golden Gator with this pal, Spurrier

Before we get into our picks, the Golden Gator has stopped by to share his thoughts on the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party that's taking place tomorrow in Jacksonville, one of the best all time classic college football games in America. 

Florida has jumped out to an unexpected great start (6-1) under first year head coach, Jim McElwain. It's a young team that's appears to be getting better and could be the team to beat in the SEC East for the next couple of seasons. Meanwhile, Georgia has taken some serious hits and is scrambling to find answers and touchdowns. The mutts will be going with their third different QB this season, Faton Bauta, as Mark Richt hopes to jump start his offense. Bauta lacks a big time arm but is fairly quick on his feet. Let's hope so for his sake.

I first met Golden Gator 25+ years ago when the Florida alum decided to return to the Southeast after a long and distinguished marketing and advertising career in Los Angeles. When he wasn't launching innovative service concepts with Atlantic Richfield, he was helping guide the creative efforts for a little computer company in Cupertino, Apple. He also convinced Delta to add extra olives to all martinis served in first class...the only way to fly. 

Golden Gator is semi-retired now, actively playing the market as well as sports gaming in Vegas. He's passionate about his Gators, SEC football, and, of course, Making Mo' Money.

 Please Welcome Golden Gator...in his words...

 

"It's that time again! A pre-season top five pick goes up against a team not expected to win but a couple. The pre-season top team is rumored to have talent worthy of Sunday football while the other guys were said to lack such basics as an offensive line, a quarterback and a running back.

It's Florida versus Georgia!  

Georgia, the pre-season top five club, is whining its way to Jacksonville while the Gators are proudly prancing into town. As the ole ball coach once said, where do all those All-Americans at Georgia disappear at this time of year?

Both teams have seen adversity: Georgia's without Chubb, a potential Heisman candidate, and Florida is without several key players including Will Grier and all the place kickers.

But Georgia is taking steps to improve their odds. They are putting a lid on the St. Simons fraternity bash! Is it in hopes of sobriety for their team come Saturday? To make sure, they are also going to Jax a day early. Is it true the players will be locked in their rooms?

OK. What about the game??

It will be close. Florida will be in 4 down territory much of the game with no confidence in their kicking game. Georgia will try to win with the run, knowing they have no passing game. A risky tactic given the Florida defense.

The Gators cover the spread and win 28-10!!! You heard it here first, folks."

PS.. Jeremy Foley will present the game ball to Steve Spurrier, the man who created the Gator Nation!  Oh... And Richt will start a riot to incite his team!

Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #9...The Great Eight™...

Dartmouth @ Harvard...we're breaking format here as we include a Friday night game in Cambridge, MA, the 119th meeting of Dartmouth and Harvard. Both teams are 6-0, the first time in 19 years for the Big Green of Dartmouth. Leaving the Bay State with a "W" aint gonna happen for the Hanover boys as the Crimson is putting up 43+ points a game while the defense is yielding only 7.8 points a game, #1 in the FCS. Harvard continues their march to the Ivy League crown with a win over Dartmouth.

# 9 Notre Dame @ #21 Temple...the Temple Owls are having one of its best seasons ever and is ranked nationally for the first time since 1979. Knocking off the Irish would be huge; maybe bigger than Bill Cosby's legal problems. Notre Dame is plenty rested after an off week following their win over Southern Cal so the Golden Domers should be in good shape. Irish QB DeShone Kizer has had a hot hand, leading the offense to 41 points in each of the last two games. We see no let up in Philly. Fighting Irish pluck the Owls.

Georgia Tech @ Virginia...the Bees are still buzzing after their miracle comeback on the Flats last Saturday night but now it's time to focus on the Wahoos. A win keeps the Jackets alive for its 19th consecutive bowl game so this is a must win. Key fact to ponder: GT is ranked 2nd in the nation in converting red-zone possessions into touchdowns (79%). And with most of their secondary returning from injuries, Tech should win its 4th straight over the Cavaliers. Take Johnson's Jackets in Charlottesville.

# 8 Stanford @ Washington State...this game features the top two offenses in the Pac-12 and Stanford has shown a lot of defensive muscle, allowing fewer than 30 points in 40 of their last 43 games. Meanwhile, the Cougars are seeking its first win over a top ten team since beating #5 Texas in the 2003 Holiday Bowl. That's a long time! This should be one of the best games on Halloween night. Cardinal over the Cougars in this one.

# 15 Michigan @ #Minnesota...the Wolverines have lost 6 of their last 9 Big Ten road games dating back to 2013 but they should be able to handle the Golden Gophers and bring the Little Brown Jug back to Ann Arbor. Minnesota is preparing for this game without their head coach, Jerry Kill, who stepped down two days ago due to serious health issues. This could be an incentive for the Gophers to go out and win one for Kill but Michigan has too many weapons on their side. Besides, Minnesota is averaging a league-worst 20 points per game. Michigan wins over Minnesota.

# 19 Ole Miss @ Auburn...the Rebs are still in the hunt for the SEC West and are looking to build on last week's big win over Texas A&M, 23-3. Measnwhile Auburn is hoping to rebound from their 4 Overtimes loss at Arkansas which put them squarely in the SEC West basement. It's going to be a challenge for Malzahn's mob to become bowl eligible given their remaining schedule. While Auburn has taken the last 5 of 6 games over Ole Miss, look for Chad Kelly to have a big day hooking up with Laquon Treadwell who has gone over 100 yards in each of the last three games. Plus Robert Nkimdiche has been cleared for the game. Looming in the distance is their showdown with division-leading LSU. Take the Rebels as Ole Miss tears up Toomer's Corner.

Tennessee @ Kentucky...the Vols had a great showing last week in Tuska-Loser but close is not good enough and moral victories count for nothing. Nevertheless, Tennessee could and should be 7-0 but for poor coaching decisions made in their losses to Oklahoma, Florida, and Arkansas. That's on BuTch Jones. If Tennessee brings their game to Lexington, the Vols will notch another victory in the Old Beer Barrel. Furthermore, the Vols should win out the balance of their schedule as they enter the easier phase of their schedule. In a solid win, Big Orange over the Big Blue.

# 11 Florida vs @ Georgia...the Gators are a 2 point favorite in this classic match up with Georgia. Both teams have flipped from the preseason predictions with Florida putting together a solid resume while UGA is struggling to find consistency in their offense. No Dawg fan in Atlanta is expecting a win. They've sort of resigned themselves to the usual mid-October fade and the threats of firing Richt are picking up steam. We've seen this before. And it will not get any better Saturday. Gators chomp the bullpups.

Good luck this Weekend.

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™
 

GONNA BE GREAT IN WEEK EIGHT

We rebounded nicely the last two weeks with solid 6-2 finishes. Making that extra delicious is hitting on a couple of huge UPSET SPECIALS including the last second shocker with Michigan State upsetting Michigan at the Big House. They say it's never over till it's over. Just ask Nebraska fans about that.

Included in our Great Eight is an intriguing matchup of two FCS powerhouses, James Madison and Richmond. This is our first FCS pick of the season. And, of course, we've included the classic rivalry, Alabama v Tennessee.

The Bama-Tennessee game has deep roots and a personal connection. My very first in-person exposure to this great match-up was in 1973 as a freshman at Legion Field. The Vols were led by legend QB Conredge Holloway (the first starting African-American QB in the SEC) and Coach Bill Battle going up against the great Bear Bryant. Old lady Legion Field was rocking since both teams were ranked (Bama was #2) and looking to make a major splash as the ABC national game of the week. The Vols had no answer to running back Wilbur Jackson, a 250 lb running back built like a Mack truck. It was a long ride back to Knoxville.

In keeping with past seasons, we've invited Kenny Clyde from Bamaland back again to share his thoughts on the 2015 Third Saturday in October.


KENNY CLYDE and the TIDE TAKE.

Cuz Danny Raye Clyde

Kenny Clyde and I go way back to the days when both of us arrived in Atlanta looking to make our mark in the ad agency business. Since those early days, we've logged many miles in our annual Third Saturday in October pilgrimages to either Knoxville or Birmingham. We typically headed out on Friday morning so we could get in 18 before hitting the bars. Depending on game time, we'd squeeze in another 18. Sunday morning before heading back to ATL, we'd get in yet another 18, weather, wives, and moods permitting. So this game has a special meaning to both of us.

Meet Kenny Clyde

Kenny Clyde sez RTR

Kenny Clyde hails from Birmingham where he grew up in the shadows of Legion Field where most Saturdays you could find him hawking Cokes and old lottery tickets in the stands of that hallowed place. Over the years I met his kin including all 49 cousins: Jim Bob Clyde, Forest Joe Clyde, Billy Joe Clyde, Cooter Clyde, Danny Rae Clyde, Leon Clyde...you get the picture; all very nice and all very Crimson Tide. Denzil and Ann, Kenny Clyde's folks, welcomed me into their home. Super folks and super Bear Bryant devotees. I never minded sleeping in the basement cause Denzil could whip up an over the top Southern breakfast that was well worth the sacrifice. Good times we had.

Please Welcome Kenny Clyde...in his words...

"I first laid eyes on Mark Woolard in May of 1981.  Just recruited to the biggest, baddest ad agency in the South, I was walked into my office and there was Mark, my next door neighbor (editor's note: I believe my office was bigger than his).

It took us about 4 minutes to establish that he was a Vol and I cheered for the greatest team in the history of college football, the Crimson Tide of Alabama. I told Mark that I grew up in North Alabama, so UT was always my third favorite team, (with my second favorite being whoever was playing Auburn that week).

Thus started a wonderful friendship that has continued all these years.  

Cuz Cooter Clyde: priceless artwork

Bama took that ‘81 game, then I had to suffer four losses till 1986, when the order of the universe was restored and Bama rolled off 7 in a row. And so it went, home and home, me and Mark and wives.  (Wish I could tell you the story of the liquid and illicit afternoon spent just outside Knoxville, causing us to be drunk and late for dinner. But I’d have to kill you.) (editor's note: no clue what he might be referring to).  

 Going to K’ville was especially nice, because we got to stay with Mark’s in-laws, Jim and Joyce.  No finer humans on earth. 

Then kids started getting in the way.  Mark had 3, we had 3, and there were practices and scouting and sports and the usual Dad stuff that took precedence over a road trip.

But we never stopped watching and we never stopped rooting.

It was easy for me to want to push Phat Phil out the door after he dropped the dime on one of our Memphis boosters being a little too friendly to a recruit’s family.  Then I watched with painful amusement as Lying Kiffin and Derelict Dooley wrecked a proud program.

Now I’m torn.  I think Butch Jones is a nice guy.  I think he should have beat Oklahoma and Florida with his late game double digit leads (editor's note: and the Arkansas game, too).  But somebody needs to buy him an old fashioned stopwatch to remind him it’s a 60 minute game.

Bama’s looking forward to its 9^th in a row come Saturday.  And at the end of the day I believe we’ll have it.  At which time Saban and his coaches will continue a great tradition started on the third Saturday in October in 1961—passing out victory cigars to the game-winning team.  A tradition begun by long time Alabama trainer Jim Goostree, who knew what that weekend meant.  Cause he was a UT grad who saw the light."

Here's Your Weekend Winners for Week #8...The Great Eight™...

Tennessee @ #8 Alabama...the Volunteers head to Tuska-Loser this Saturday with hopes of upsetting an Alabama team that's picked up steam since losing to Ole Miss back in mid September. The Vols finally got the "big-game monkey" off their back by coming from behind to beat the mutts in Knoxville. Another 20 seconds and the outcome would have probably been different with Georgia threatening late. This Saturday, though, UT's qb Dobbs will be facing a much superior secondary which notched 4 Aggie INTs, returning 3 for TDs, a school record. Bama has the upper hand in this series having won the last eight straight and has won 57 straight games over unranked teams. In past seasons, this has been a tight game at times so if the Vols can keep it close, they may - just may - have a shot at pulling a biggie. And the line of 15.5  points is just too tasty to overlook. So...in an UPSET SPECIAL take Tennessee and the points. Smokey howls with Verne and Gary Saturday afternoon.

Hotty Toddy, ladies

#15 Texas A&M@ #24 Mississippi...the Aggies stumbled against Bama last week with qb Kyle Allen throwing to too many guys in the wrong uni's (4 INTs by Bama). Meanwhile Ole Miss is looking to rebound from being upset by Tiger High in Memphis that carved up the Reb secondary with 384 passing yards (note: Memphis is a pretty good team this season). The Rebs appear to have all star DT Robert Nkimdiche cleared for the game and qb Chad Kelly leads the SEC in passing with 319 yds per game. The Aggies own this series 6-1 but not tomorrow. Take Ole Miss in a close one in Oxford.

 #6 Clemson @ Miami...if the Canes want to win this game they need to limit Clemson's scoring in the first half. The Tigers have dominated opponents, outscoring the opposition 137-33 in the first half of games. Miami is led by qb Brad Kaaya, last season's ACC rookie of the year. But Clemson's Deshaun Watson is lighting it up. Last Saturday he torched Boston College for 420 yards and 3 TDs, his second 400-yard passing game of his career. Take the Tigers in this one as Clemson keeps pace with FSU.

Bucky bites Illini

 Wisconsin @ Illinois...the Badgers have dominated this series of late and their stout defense will give the Illini fits tomorrow. Wisconsin is ranked third nationally in total defense and stifled Purdue last week, holding the Boilermakers to a total offense of 191 yards. While Illinois has imprived from last season, the Badgers have enough fire power to win on the road. Take Bucky and the Badgers over the Illini.

 Auburn @ Arkansas...the Tigers/Plainsmen/War Eagles/Dying Oaks look to extend their winning streak to 3. The Auburn offense has shown signs of life having scored 30+ points in their last two outings and the defense is ranked 11th nationally with only 5 passing TDs allowed this season. The Hogs are a run first/run often offense so look for them to pound the rock and control the tempo of the game. This should be a tight one. Take Malzahn's crew in an UPSET SPECIAL.

 #23 Duke @ Virginia Tech...the Blue Devils have no problem winning on the road. They've won five consecutive road games dating to last season, and have yielded the fewest points in the nation (56) and is tied with Michigan for first in the country by allowing only 9.3 points per game!At 5-1 it appears that Cutcliffe has his Dookies on the right track despite being the underdog in this one. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take Duke over the Hokies.

 #9 Florida State @ Georgia Tech...we debated about including this game in our Great Eight but are intrigued with this matchup that could very well be a trap game for the Noles. The past five meetings between these teams have been decided by a combined 17 points. Only a handful of plays separate the Yellow Jackets from having quite a different record and if they play a heady game, they may very well have a shot at knocking off the visiting Seminoles especially if their run game can chew up the clock. But FSU's Everett Golson is going to go right at the Bee's weakness: the secondary. He has zero INTs in 177 pass attempts. Plus rb Dalvin Cook is averaging 159 yards rushing per game. We hate to think that GT could be facing their 6th straight loss but this could happen especially if the defense continues to falter in the second half. Take FSU to win in Atlanta.

Duke: one badass statue

Richmond @ James Madison...ESPN College GameDay comes live from Harrisonburg, Virginia, a quiet little hamlet nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains. It's great exposure for small college football and a huge opportunity for viewers to experience the typical non-powerhouse atmosphere. But don't let the FCS label fool you into thinking this is a matchup of two so-so teams. JMU has a high powered offense averaging over 48 points and 613 yards per game. The Dukes have posted at least 38 points every game, hitting 50 four times in seven games. They hung 48 on FBS opponent, SMU. If that's not enough, ex-GT Yellow Jacket, Vad Lee, leads the JMU offense. In the win over SMU, Lee became the first Division I (FCS OR FBS) to throw and run for 275 yards in the same game, racking up 289 yards passing and 276 on the ground. Let that sink in for a moment. The 5-1 Spiders are 13.5 point dogs and this is very very tempting to take. But we think the undefeated Dukes are just too powerful. Take the Dukes over the Spiders.

Good luck this week. And have some fun!

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

WEEK SEVEN ALMOST HEAVEN

This past Saturday was amazing with some great, last minute outcomes that swung some big time money our way.

For the second consecutive week we went 6 & 2...that's 12 & 4 over the last two Saturdays for you non-math majors.

OMG. What just happened??

And what's even better is we hit on TWO UPSET SPECIALS by riding with Michigan State over Michigan and Pitt beating the much malingered Yellow Jackets. Both games were decided late. Pitt hit a school record 56 yard field goal to nip Tech with 1:49 to go while Sparty got a huge break on a fumbled punt snap returned for a touchdown as the gun sounded in Ann Arbor.

If you're a Spartan fan (and we have a few MSU subscribers on board), you can now get up off the floor. It's for real. You beat the Wolverines...for the 7th time in 8 games. In fact, for those counting at home, Michigan State has won every Big Ten road game dating back to 2012. Impressive to say the least, especially going into hostile venues like the Big House and the Horseshoe at Ohio State.

Later this Week.... 

Fireside chat with Kenny Clyde

In addition to posting The Great Eight™ Winning Picks, Kenny Clyde from Bamaland will be sharing some words of wisdom regarding the Tennessee-Alabama matchup that takes place in Tuska-Loser on Saturday. If you know me then you know this game is extra special regardless of either team's season record. It defines the best in Southern football and you can't find a more intense rivalry that dates back to 1901, and has featured some of the greatest coaching legends in college football with Paul 'Bear' Bryant and General Robert Neyland. Get those cigars ready, my friends.

Sidelines....

BEVO: a damn good cow

• A moment of silence for BEVO XIV. The Texas Longhorn mascot went to the big feedlot in the sky last Friday.  In his honor, the Woolard's Weekend Winners staff will be dining at the local Longhorn tonight.  I'm ordering up an extra juicy 24 ounce bone-in ribeye in a salute to the lost bovine.

• Shame on Michigan's Jim Harbaugh. After Saturday's shocker, the Michigan head coach didn't lift a finger to protect his punter, Blake O'Neill from potential abuse. This kid has been getting death threats since botching the punt snap and it took the Michigan athletic director on Sunday to tell Wolverine fans to knock off the bullshit directed toward O'Neill. Harbaugh made no mention of other mistakes he (Harbaugh) made during the game ---like the two previous timeouts --- or the fact that the snap was terrible. Instead he let his senior punter swing in the breeze as an open target to buttholes that go after players when their team loses. Coaches and athletic directors are fair game in my opinion. But not college players.

Where am I? Who am I?

• Memphis breaks into the Top 25. The Tigers knocked off #13 Ole Miss, 37-24, and Memphis is sporting a perfect 6-0 record and now ranked #18. The Rebel Black Bears (gotta hate that name) jumped out 14-0 then Memphis scored 24 unanswered points. Adding insult to injury, the Rebs lost DT Robert Nkemdiche to a concussion as he was being used as a running back in a short yardage situation. He may not be cleared in time for Saturday's big game with Texas A&M. I bet Mister Freeze would like to have that decision back and keep Nkimdiche soley at defensive tackle. Sometimes being cute ain't so cute.

Endzone party not so fun

• The pain of victory. Michigan State's Jalen Watts-Jackson, the freshman that scooped up the botched Michigan snap, suffered a fractured hip as he scored the winning touchdown. With teammates jumping on the dog pile, Jalen could only wait for the mayhem to clear before he could get medical assistance. He will be gone for the balance of the season. Tough break for him (see what I did there?).

• For you smart guys out there that went to Ivy League schools. In case you missed it, Harvard is putting together yet another stellar season. The Crimson is 5-0 and visits Princeton this Saturday to face the Tigers. Harvard has won the Ivy League the last 3 of 4 seasons. And you gotta love the fact that Ivy Leagues don't offer athletic scholarships. 

• College GameDay will be in Harrisonburg, VA. Once a season ESPN's College GameDay broadcasts from a small market, lower level college team town. Last season it was Fargo, ND and featured the North Dakota State team. It's great exposure for the smaller schools and a great opportunity for fans to experience what's happening in a non-big time football powerhouse campus. The featured game Saturday pits the Richmond Spiders versus host James Madison Dukes. Both schools are tied at the top of the Colonial Athletic Conference and both are riding long winning streaks (JMU has won 7 in a row; Richmond 5). On a side note, the qb at JMU is GT transfer Vad Lee who is ripping up the competition this season. Kudos to ESPN.

We'll be back later in the week. Stay classy my friends!

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™