END OF THE LINE. WE'RE DOING FINE

Mighty fine numbers!

We wrap up the 2017 season with this final weekend of college football. It flew by way too fast.

It may be the end of the line but we're doing mighty fine. Just look at our numbers.

Last Saturday we posted 5-3 in our picks, which places us at 72% with an overall record of 75-29, our best ever in our six year history of Woolard's Weekend Winners.

We hope that you've enjoyed the ride this season and been able to make a few extra dollars along the way. If nothing else, we hope we've made you sound a little bit more intelligent at Saturday tailgate parties.

EXTRA POINTS

Unless you've been living in an Afghan cave for the last two weeks, the second season of college football is upon us. We're talking about the Coaching Carousel that is in full swing as we approach Championship Weekend.

A clown show has broken out in Knoxville as the Vol Nation had an uprising and forced Tennessee to withdraw an offer to Greg Schiano. Good for the Vols because Schiano has a mediocre record at best and the Vols deserve better. And now with Phil Fulmer in the AD saddle (after Currie was canned and multiple prospects turned him down) calm should return to Rocky Top and the Tennessee job will become more attractive with stability back in the program. They can only hope.

Florida has grabbed Dan Mullen from Missy State while Texas A&M opened its coffers to get FSU's Jimbo Fisher (Money Talks, Jimbo Walks). Ole Miss has retained its interim coach, Matt Luke, and Arkansas is still looking. Rumors swirl around Gus Malzahn leaving Auburn, and Hugh Freeze may be in play for a new gig soon. And this is just the SEC.

Chip Kelly has ended his "retirement" and is the new chief at UCLA. This is a huge hire so look for the Bruins to really open up their offense.  We can't wait to see what's in store for our Pac-12 buddies.

This week's GREAT EIGHT features conference championship games in which the stakes cannot get higher. Any team could win when you look at the matchups and we're rolling the dice with several UPSET SPECIALS.

THE GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK FOURTEEN

#4 AUBURN V # 6 GEORGIA...the stakes could not be bigger for these two teams. The winner most likely secures a post in the CFP. Having just played each other three weeks ago, these guys know each other very well. And Georgia knows what they have to do to win: win the war in the trenches and stop Kerryon Johnson. If they can slow down Kerryon, and Jarrett Stidham, then the doggies have a chance. But alas, War Eagles fly high at Mercedes Benz Stadium.

#1 CLEMSON V #7 MIAMI...the Cane's were tripped up last week by Pitt. But Mark Richt has a chance for his Miami team to redeem themselves by knocking off the red hot Clemson Tigers in their first ACC-title game since joining the league in 2003. The Canes have a solid defense featuring linebackers Quarterman and Pinckney, plus safety Jaquan Johnson. While Miami will be without their star running back, Walton, Clemson has the dual threat QB in Kelly Bryant. Plus Clemson has their heavyweight defensive front loaded with NFL talent. And that will be the difference. Clemson heads to the CFP after weathering the Hurricanes.

#14 STANFORD V #11 SOUTHERN CAL...these two teams are playing for a big New Year's Day bowl, not a CFP berth. The Trojans drilled the Cardinal earlier in the season, 42-24, and outgunned Stanford 624 yards to 342yards. Compounding the situation is Stanford's rb Bryce Love who's still slowed by an ankle injury. Not good. Take the Trojans in this one.

#10 TCU V #2 OKLAHOMA...a lot is at stake for the Sooners tomorrow in the first Big 12 Conference Championship game since 2010. The conference brainiacs couldn't figure how to structure a real conference championship with two divisions so the top two teams play each other...like they just did two weeks ago! We collectively hate Baker Mayfield and hope that this immature puke gets his head handed to him. Time for the Horned Frogs to take a dump on Mayfield. Frogs do it tomorrow in an UPSET SPECIAL (Alabama fans can thank us later).

#8 OHIO STATE V #3 WISCONSIN...it's time for Wisconsin to earn some respect, the ONLY undefeated team in the Top Ten of any poll (CFP, AP, WWW, etc.). And they can do it tomorrow by bucking the Buckeyes. Urban's boys took care of business last week beating Michigan while the Badgers have run the table and stand undefeated at 12-0. JT Barrett is iffy for the game which could be bad news for the acorns. Look for Badger back Jonathon Taylor to have a large game. He's a baller and will be the difference. Badgers nut-crack the Buckeyes in another UPSET SPECIAL.

STONY BROOK V JAMES MADISON...the undefeated Dukes (12-0) host the Seawolves in cozy Harrisonburg, VA (take I-81 North and keep going for like forever). This is the second round for the Division 1 College Football championships. While Stony Brook poses a threat with their air game, the Dukes are solid all the way around with an incredibly strong defense. We like the Dukes. So put some cash on them, okay? Takes money to make money!

#16 MEMPHIS V #12 CENTRAL FLORIDA...could this be the final game for golden boy UCF head coach Scott Frost? Nebraska beckons and with today's news out of Tallahassee, Frost will certainly be a leading candidate for the FSU job. Tallahassee or Lincoln, Nebraska? Exciting Seminole football loaded with Florida and Georgia talent? Or rebuilding a program while trying to attract top talent to the frozen tundra. I know where I'd go. Anyway these cats are playing for the American Athletic Conference Championship. And don't forget the hot Memphis coach, Mike Norvell. Both coaches are auditioning for bigger gigs. Look for Memphis qb Riley Ferguson to light it up. Since losing to UCF in late September, Memphis has won six straight wins, averaging over 50 points per game. So, take the Memphis high Tigers over the Knights in an UPSET SPECIAL.

#25 FRESNO STATE V BOISE STATE...these two just met last week for the Milk Can Trophy in which the Bulldogs beat the Broncos 28-17, and tomorrow they meet for the Mountain West conference championship on the ugliest turf in America, the Blue Rug at Boise. Both teams know each other strengths and weaknesses. Fresno has been on a quiet roll posting a 9-3 record, a far cry from last year's 1-9 record. With that momentum, we like the Bulldogs over the Broncos in an UPSET SPECIAL.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

STRONG FINISH TO 2017

All time winning

Well here we are at the final week of the regular season. We've seen some pretty exciting football throughout the fall and we wind up the 2017 Season with a huge weekend of rivalry games, some with College Football Playoff implications and conference titles.

Before we get to our Great Eight, let's reflect on another successful Saturday in which we went 7-1 in our picks. That puts us at 73% overall for 2017, a new overall high for Woolard's Weekend Winners with 70 winning picks!

That's a lot of moolah and we have two more weekends to pile on even more greenbacks, starting today.

THE GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK THIRTEEN

#7 GEORGIA @ GEORGIA TECH...there's a lot riding on the 112th "Clean, Old Fashioned Hate." Georgia is looking to go 11-1, only the third time in UGA history. The Jackets need a win to be bowl eligible and would love nothing more then to douse the Dawg's CFP aspirations. That's a tall order given that Georgia's run game and offensive line is one of the best in the country. Seniors rbs Nick Chubb (1045 yes) and Sony Michel (818) decided to come back for their senior year and it has paid off handsomely for Kirby Smart. Tech features the triple option that has befuddled many a defensive coordinator. And if the Bees want to have a chance to win on Grant Field, something they haven't done since 1999, they need to run it flawlessly. Dawgs win big in Atlanta.

#1 ALABAMA @ #6 AUBURN...this Iron Bowl is loaded with storylines. The winner advances to the SEC Championship game, and has the inside shot at making the CFP. Auburn's explosive offense (averaging over 200 yards rushing in its last seven games) is hitting on all pistons since it embarrassed top ranked Georgia a few weeks ago when the Dawgs came calling to the Plains. But the Tide packs a punch too, averaging 270 rush yards per game (over 6 yards per carry). Despite some injuries to top defensive players, Bama remains pretty stout, allowing just 10.2 points per game. This is MUST SEE TV. Take the Tide in a tight one.

#22 SOUTH FLORIDA @ #13 CENTRAL FLORIDA...this is a Friday contest so be sure to get with your bookie early today. This game determines a berth in the American Athletic Conference championship game and features the undefeated Knights hosting the once beaten Bulls. Rumors have it that UCF head coach Scott Frost will leverage this season's success for a higher profile gig such as Nebraska, Tennessee, and or even the Gators. We like the favored Knights.

#8 OHIO STATE @ MICHIGAN...if the Buckeyes prevail in The Game, they line up against Wisconsin in next week's Big Ten championship game, and could position themselves for a CFP spot. Meanwhile the Wolverines need to finally beat a team with a winning record, and ruin the season for Ohio State. There is absolutely no love between these two schools and their fans. But we'll show some love for the Buckeyes as they get the job done in Ann Arbor. Put your bucks on the Buckeyes.

#4 CLEMSON @ SOUTH CAROLINA...a win in the Palmetto Bowl will give Clemson coach Dabo Swinney his 100th win in ten seasons. But second year Gamecock coach Will Muschamp has his 8-3 team moving in the right direction and they would love nothing more than to knock off the Tigers, if for nothing else then for bragging rights and in-state recruiting advantages. Clemson is already locked in to the ACC championship game facing Miami and need to win this game to remain in the CFP top echelon. Tigers have too many weapons and will survive their trip to Columbia.

#14 WASHINGTON STATE @ #15 WASHINGTON...if the Cougars can win the Apple Cup they will face USC in the Pac-12 championship game.  The Cougars defense is ranked 11th nationally allowing only 303 yards per game. But the Huskie defense is just as strong, ranked 4th in total defense (271 yards allowed). Both teams want that 10th win. We think Mike Leach and his Cougars will prevail.

#9 NOTRE DAME @ #20 STANFORD...with a loss to Miami, the Irish were eliminated from the CPF but want to finish strong. Meanwhile the Cardinal will be scoreboard watching as they keep an eye on the Washington-Washington State game. If the Huskies knock off the Cougars, then Stanford represents the Pac-12 North, facing Southern Cal in the Pac-12 Championship game. The Irish feature qb Brandon Wimbush and is supported by Josh Adams, who ranks 14th in rushing average at 121 yards per game. Irish chop the Cardinal.

FLORIDA STATE @ FLORIDA...once upon a time this was a high profile game. But 2017 has not been kind to either, with both teams sitting at 4-6. The injury bug bit the Noles big this season and the Gators are adrift again, looking for a new head coach. Both team will eventually rebound, but not this year. Except the Seminoles will find some relief in beating Florida this Saturday. FSU chops the Gators.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

FLYING HIGH IN WEEK TWELVE

Awesome numbers

We had another Saturday with great results, posting a fabulous 6-2.

We hit on Auburn's big win over Georgia and Alabama failing to cover the spread in their game with Mississippi State.

So, after eleven weeks of great college football we're sitting at 63-25...an incredible 72% hit rate...and still hungry for more.

This weekend presents somewhat of a challenge in selecting strong games for our Great Eight™. It's really slim pickings as most teams are playing cup cakes or low level conference games. Examples: Alabama vs Mercer. Really? Clemson vs Citadel. Auburn vs Louisiana-Monroe.

Nevertheless we've come up with a slate of decent games; each offering you the opportunity to win mo' money, one of which is the Men of Troy versus the Buins.

Our West Coast scribe, Lair of the Bear, has stopped by to provide his ideas on Saturday's big throw down between the Southern Cal Trojans and the Bruins of UCLA.

AND NOW A WORD FROM LAIR OF THE BEAR

Last word from Lair of the Bear

The 87th renewal of the Los Angeles City Championship takes place in the vaunted Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum this Saturday!  This game is most often a battle of college football behemoths having produced eight Heisman Trophy Winners (OK… seven were wearing Cardinal & Gold, if you include Reggie Bush’s and OJ’s) and twelve National Championships. (OK… UCLA shared it’s only National Championship with Ohio State in 1954).

Yes…  this year’s game is no different as it will showcase the two leading Heisman Trophy candidates (OK…. pre-season picks) in UCLA’s Josh “The Chosen” Rosen and USC’s Sam Darnold.  Both teams can throw the ball well, as UCLA is #7 in the nation in passing yards and USC is #8.

However, when USC has the ball, all the pressure won’t be on Darnold’s arm.  UCLA’s run defense is ranked #129 in the nation (Only San Jose State is worse.), and USC’s running game is strong.  Last week, running back Ronald Jones rushed for 142 yards and moved into sixth overall on USC’s all-time rushing list. He passed LenDale White, Reggie Bush and Mike Garrett and has 3,292 yards during his career.

When UCLA has the ball, it will be up to Rosen to make things happen.  He has proved he can make things happen, and he’s not afraid to squeeeeze the ball into coverage. And, UCLA’s offense got a boost last week when hot-headed Receiver Jordan Lasley came back from a three-game suspension in a big way with seven catches, a career-high 162 yards and a touchdown against Arizona State.

It should be a fun one to watch on the gridiron in the coliseum if UCLA can keep it close.  (And in the past, there has been a lot of TV time dedicated to the USC and UCLA cheerleaders/song girls!)  However, most expect a few streaks to continue when it is all said and done - UCLA is 0-5 on the road this season and USC is riding a 15 game win streak at the Coliseum.  But…. It is a rivalry game, and anything can, and often does happen.  GO GUTTY LITTLE BRUINS!

THE GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK TWELVE

UCLA @ SOUTHERN CAL...this heated rivalry dominates year-round conversation in the So-Cal area, and this game goes a long way to claiming bragging rights with several storylines. Both qbs are from local LA-area high schools, and both will certainly be high draft candidates next spring. UCLA is limping along with a coach (Jim Mora) heading to the hot seat. Bruin qb Josh Rosen is quite capable of putting up strong numbers as he averages over 330 passing yards per game. He'll give the Trojan secondary fits. But the Men of Troy will answer with Sam Darnold under center, backed by rb Ronald Jones II who will tear up a suspect UCLA run defense (they allow over 300 yards rushing per game). Got to go with the Trojans in this one.

#21 LSU @ TENNESSEE...before the start of the season this game was marked as a big game with potential bowl game ramifications. While LSU has resurged, Tennessee has become a train wreck in the midst of firing Botch Jones and remaining winless in the SEC. Embarrassing. Nothing new will happen here. The Vols will struggle on offense with a sputtering run game, and their depleted defense will have a long afternoon stopping the Bengal Tigers. LSU wins big in Knoxville.

NAVY @ #9 NOTRE DAME...the Irish were embarrassed last Saturday by Miami (41-8) which effectively removes them from the CFP discussion. So the Golden Domers will be extra juiced up as the Middies invade South Bend for the 91st meeting in what is the longest continuous intersectional rivalry in college football. The key to this game is Notre Dame's ability to stop Navy's ground game which piled up 559 yards last week against SMU. But in the end, we think the Irish, led by the solid qb play of Brandon Wimbush, have too many offensive weapons for Navy to handle. Irish sinks Navy.

#19 MICHIGAN @ #5 WISCONSIN...the Badgers have the chance to make a major statement to the CFP committee. Having jumped from #8 to #5 in the CPF poll, Wisconsin will rely on a stingy defense and an offense powered by Jonathan Taylor, 4th in rushing with an average of 152 yards per game. Michigan's front seven will be tested early and often. Bet on the Badgers to win.

GEORGIA TECH @ DUKE...if the Jackets could ever learn to close out games they would be a ranked team. We're convinced they love living dangerously (see the Va Tech game). Now they have the chance to finish strong by taking care of Duke (1-5 in the ACC) and then pulling a miracle win over highly ranked, bitter foe Georgia. A tall order for sure. But for now they need to focus on the Blue Devils and running a mistake-free triple option. The Bees will definitely ring up the yardage but the key will be ball protection. And a win on Saturday clinches a bowl trip, the Jackets 20th bowl appearance in 21 seasons. That will happen. Bet on the Bees over Duke.

MINNESOTA @ NORTHWESTERN...the Wildcats are riding a 5 game win streak including 3 overtime wins which speaks to Northwestern's resiliency. Meanwhile the Golden Gophers are coming off their best performance of the season with a big 54-21 win over Nebraska, the most points scored this season by Minnesota. The key to the game: quarterback play of Wildcat Clayton Thornson who ranks #2 in Big Ten passing yardage. In a cold one on the Lake, Wildcats heat things up with a big win.

KENTUCKY @ #7 GEORGIA...the pups are still licking their wounds inflicted by another feline, the Auburn Tigers, in Saturday's embarrassing 40-17 dismantling. So the Dawgs will be extra hungry when a scrappy Kentucky team rolls into Athens. This game will feature three of the best running backs in the SEC: Chubbs and Michel of UGA, and Kentucky's Benny Snell. The key: Georgia's Jake Fromm who should be able to handle tamer pass pressure from the Wildcats. Go with the Dawgs over the Kitty Kats.

UTAH @ #16 WASHINGTON...the Utes are 1-9 versus the Huskies who are coming off a bitter loss to Stanford. And Washington is still in the hunt for the Pac-12 North title so expect to see the Huskies dish out some misery on the Utes. Watch for Washington's Dante Pettis. He leads the country in punt returns and has taken four to the house. He's also the leading receiver for the Huskies. Put your money on the Huskies.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

OH HEAVENS. IT'S WEEK ELEVEN!

We did it again in Week Ten!!

Sweet Seventy One

We followed last weekend's performance with another outstanding weekend of stellar picks, going 7-1.

So now we're sitting at an all time high of 71% which is especially significant since we're pretty deep into the 2017 college football season.

With all that green you can go ahead and start your holiday shopping now. Get some bling for your bride. Or for your girlfriend. Or both! In any case if you've followed our picks you're sitting pretty good now, with the chance to make even more.

The Weekend Ahead

You're gonna want to make sure you have plenty of ice cold beverages and good eats for this weekend with so many intriguing games, top to bottom. So sit back, pop a cold one, and enjoy. And Make Mo' Money.™

The GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK ELEVEN

Gotta win a Big One

#3 NOTRE DAME @ #7 MIAMI...no other game this weekend will have greater impact on the CFP rankings then this dandy. If the Irish stumble, it opens the door to Miami and others including Oklahoma and TCU. With all due respect to Virginia Tech, this is really the undefeated Cane's biggest test of the season, and if they get by Notre Dame, they can run the table for the rest of the season (Pitt and Virginia are the remaining games). No doubt that this is a big game with big stakes for both schools, and harkens back to the 1980's when these teams had similar matchups with national implications. Miami's defense will be tested by a strong Irish ground game which averages 324 yards per game. The Cane's have been scorched on the ground: 264 yds to Syracuse, 226 yds to GT, 203 to FSU, 176 to UNC. We like Coach Richt but this could be another game in which he can't win the Big One. Irish over the Hurricanes.

#2 GEORGIA @ #10 AUBURN...your wish for a great Saturday afternoon (3:30) game has come true with a big SEC showdown on the Plains in the South's Oldest Rivalry. And Auburn's offense is finally starting to click with outstanding play from its qb, Jarrett Stidham, and rb Kerryon Johnson. Great effort from these two will be needed as they face a stubborn Georgia defense. The Bulldogs arrive in Auburn with one of the deepest running back crews in the country with Chubbs, Michel, Swift, Holyfield, and Herrien. QB Fromm is not afraid to put the ball up and showing a lot of confidence for being just a freshman. Georgia needs this win in order to stay in the CFP mix. A loss, and they're zapped.  We like Aubbie over UGA. 

#17 VIRGINIA TECH @ GEORGIA TECH...for us, the Yellow Jackets have been one of the most mercurial teams to predict this season. They've lost twice by one point (Tennessee and Miami) and by 4 to Virginia. In the UVA game, the Bees squandered a big 3rd quarter lead and lost on a touchdown scores with 1:22 remaining. GT can go a long way to salvaging a disappointing season by knocking off the Hokies on Saturday, who have the task of slowing down the #1 rushing attack in the ACC (332 yds per game...3rd nationally). The key to this game is execution of the triple option with no bone-head plays. Look for Benson to have another strong game; the Bees will need it. Jackets sting the Hokies in an UPSET SPECIAL on the Flats.

Wonder what's in that wagon?

#8 TCU @ #5 OKLAHOMA...we talked last week about the lack of defense in the Big 12. Here's exhibit A: Baker Mayfield passed for 598 yards and five touchdowns to win out 62-52 over the Oklahoma State Cowboys. While the Horned Frogs lack a high powered offense they do have a fairly strong defense, allowing just 285 yards per game, and less than 70 rushing yards. The big question is can they stop the Sooner aerial attack. It's a home game in Norman. And that could matter. Take the Sooners over the Frogs.

#13 MICHIGAN STATE @ #11 OHIO STATE...the Spartans roll into Columbus coming off of a big win over Penn State, 27-24. But Sparty better buckle up for a tough afternoon in Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes average 44 points per game and 549 yards of offense. Ohio State was dominated last week by Iowa so they'll be more than ready to smack some Spartans. It's a tall order for Michigan State to pull off a win over heavily favored Ohio State. But we think they can do it with their balanced offense and stingy defense which allows only 303 yards per game (and only 87 rush yards per game). Sparty crunches some Buckeyes.

FLORIDA STATE @ #4 CLEMSON...prior to this season, this game has always been a high profile game with ACC Atlantic Division title implications. But the Noles are down this season, especially obvious after losing their quarterback in the season opening loss to Alabama, and averaging less than 19 points per game. The Tigers will break out their orange pants as they seek to clinch the ACC Atlantic title and race to a third consecutive ACC title. If you're a Clemson fan, you'll be having party time on Saturday. Tigers claw the Seminoles.

Show em some love

#25 IOWA @ #6 WISCONSIN...the undefeated Badgers (9-0) have quietly inched themselves up the poll ladder and need to keep on winning in order to force themselves into the CFP mix. The rap on Wisconsin is that they have yet to play any real tough teams but they'll have their hands full when they face Iowa. The Hawkeyes are coming off a huge 55-24 win over Ohio State in which they dominated the Buckeyes on both sides of the ball. The Badgers need this one desperately, and we think they get it done. Take Bucky the Badger over Iowa.

It takes big bells to beat Bama

#1 ALABAMA @ #18 MISSISSIPPI STATE...before you automatically log this game in as a win for Bama consider this:
1. The Cowbells have been fairly dominate at home with big wins over LSU, BYU, Kentucky, and Charleston Southern. Okay, forget Charleston Southern. But in adding up the points scored in each win, Missy State has averaged 41.5 to 6. That's pretty stout.
2. Bama is coming off a very physical game with LSU and suffered some injuries to key defensive players. Forget for a second that Bama typically has four deep at every position, each four or five star studs.
3. Missy State QB Nick Fitzgerald is 4th in the SEC in rushing and 2nd in rushing TDs. His passing is much improved.
4. The Missy State defensive line is one of the best in the country...only 5 sacks given up all season, best in the SEC, 3rd in the country. That could be the difference when facing the Tide.
With the spread at 14 points, we're taking the Bulldogs and the points. Tide will not cover.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

DO IT AGAIN IN WEEK TEN

Don't look now but we posted our best effort of the season last Saturday, going 7-1 with our picks including our UPSET SPECIAL of Northwestern knocking off Michigan State. Cha ching!

Hopefully you followed our picks and made some extra change as well.

Old school coaches are known to say "they remember what you do in November." And here we are embarking into the November stretch of games in which conference titles will be confirmed and playoff contenders position themselves for the selection committee.

We have another great slate of games this weekend, headlined by Bedlam in Stillwater. For keen insight into the game, Sooner Boomhauer is in the house today with his thoughts.

AND NOW A FEW WORDS FROM SOONER BOOMHAUER...
I’ll take defense for a thousand, Alex.  

The team who scores the most, wins

Oklahoma has had some standouts, but you have to be a student of history to remember LeRoy, Lucious, and Dewey Selmon, Roy Williams, Brian Bosworth, Tony Casillas, Rocky Calmus, Rod Shoate, Darryl Hunt, and Teddy Lehman.  

Oklahoma State?… hmmm … Leslie O’Neal?  

You get the picture, but that’s history.  

I don't have to tell you that teams in the Big 12 are primarily known for offense.  A lot of it.  

However, defense will be the key to a win on Saturday between OU and OSU. 

Both teams can score points in bushels but they both have had issues on the other side of the line and OSU’s special teams have a propensity to step in it.  

The game is in Stillwater - I look for a close game until big plays make the difference; i.e. one defense trips up – probably more than once.  

After all of my talk about defense, I predict that the team which scores the most points will win and you can take that to the bank.


GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK TEN

#6 CLEMSON @ #20 NC STATE...the winner of this game has the inside track to the ACC Atlantic Division. Clemson has dominated this series, winning the last five, and very much needs to win to stay in the CFP hunt. Meanwhile the Wolfpack could be missing a major part of their offense, rb Nyheim Hines, who left the Notre Dame game early with an ankle injury. It will be close but take the Tigers over the Wolfpack.

#18 STANFORD @ #25 WASHINGTON STATE...despite being 6-2 Stanford is struggling of late. And playing the Cougars in Pullman is not going to make matters better for the Cardinal since WSU is 6-0 at home including wins over USC and Boise State. Overlay this with nasty weather (cold and wet) and the Cardinal could be in for a long afternoon. Cougars chomp Stanford.

#8 OKLAHOMA @ #11 OKLAHOMA STATE...Bedlam returns this Saturday with the annual shootout between the Sooners and the Cowboys. History clearly shows why Oklahoma State has earned the moniker, "Poke Choke", because the Cowboys always find a way to lose to their arch rival. If you're into quarterback play, then this game is for you. Baker Mayfield and Mason Rudolph will light up the scoreboard and, as Sooner Boomhauer points out, the defense can make the difference. It's a big game with big time Big 12 ramifications. Take the CowPokes over the Sooners.

#19 LSU @ #1 ALABAMA...this could be a dangerous game for the Tide. After dropping games to Missy State and Troy State, the Tigers have been on a winning roll and pose a legitimate threat to Bama. We like what we see. And we really like the spread (21.5 points). Take the Bengal Tigers and the points.

#13 VIRGINIA TECH @ #9 MIAMI...coach Mark Richt has the undefeated Canes poised to win the ACC Coastal Division but first need to get past the Hokies. Both teams are starting first year quarterbacks who have been solid, not flashy, thus far. Like previous wins for Miami, this game will be a nail biter as well; not flashy but a win. Take the Hurricanes over the Hokies.

SOUTH CAROLINA @ #2 GEORGIA...pup fans have to be happy with the new College Football Playoff rankings in which UGA is sitting atop the list of playoff-hungry teams, even leaping over the Crimson Tide. No question that Georgia has emerged as a potent, solid team and is on course to play Alabama in the SEC Championship Game. But not so fast. The Gamecocks roll into Athens determined to dampen the love fest. We're not sure if they have the guns to do that but the point spread is too attractive to ignore (24.5 points). Take the Cocks and points.

NORTHWESTERN @ NEBRASKA...the Wildcats are on a three game win streak as they head into Lincoln looking to upset the Huskers (1 point favorite). Defending the run has been a bug-a-boo of sorts for the Huskers, giving up an average of 170 yards per game, which is a strong point for Northwestern. Look for a tight game but take The 'Cats in this one.

TEXAS @ #10 TCU...the Horned Frogs are looking to rebound from a stinging defeat to Iowa State. And if history repeats itself, TCU should be in good shape. In the last three meetings the Frogs have outscored the Longhorns, 129-26.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

LET IT SHINE IN WEEK NINE

Coaches often tell their teams that they have yet to play their best game.

That's how we feel.

We've done exceptionally well so far this season but we think our best is yet to come. Hitting 100% of our picks is our goal. Yes, a bit lofty but that's what we strive for and what we promise to you, our loyal subscribers and fellow scallywags.

WEEKEND REWIND

With that in mind, we went 5-3 last week including a tasty UPSET SPECIAL with Louisville knocking off Florida State 31-28. Cha ching!

We told you to take Tennessee and the points (35 1/2) because Bama would never cover. Oops. Bama did with a 38 point margin! You can tell a great team when the third teamers are aching to put points on the board and their coach lets them do it. And that's why Saban's Tide sets the bar so high in college football.

Coach O continued his ressurrection tour with his LSU Tigers surviving Ole Miss, and Penn State sending a message to the College Football Playoff committee with a 42-13 spanking of Michigan. Ouch.

So we sit at 67% after a complete eight weeks in the book and now we focus on WEEK NINE which has some pretty intriguing match ups and storylines.

THE DRINKING LAMP HAS BEEN LIT

The weekend headliner, of course, is the annual World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party in Jacksonville featuring the Georgia Bulldogs and the Florida Gators.  There ain't a lot of love between these two schools.

For the last 48 hours there's been a steady stream of dirty Winnebagos flowing south to Jacksonville. And as we speak this morning Dawg and Gator fans are partying on Saint Simon Island and Amelia as they lube up for the big game on the banks of the St. Johns River.

For insight into this great classic, Golden Gator is in the house with his thoughts on the big game.

AND NOW A FEW WORDS FROM GOLDEN GATOR

It’s that time football lovers!

Golden Gator and his little pal, Spurrier

Florida versus Georgia! The greatest rivalry in southern football!

Much has changed in the past year, yet much remains the same.

As happens every year, the prognosticators say this is Georgia’s year! Vince Dooley predicts a national championship!

They again say Georgia has the superior players and the best recruiting class.

They say the Gators don’t have a chance! 

Georgia’s a 14 point favorite, the largest spread in decades.

Sound familiar? We hear this every year.

Oh.. one more thing…these Gators have never lost to the Dawgs. Guess talk is cheap…

Some keys

Florida must slow or stop Georgia’s run game and force their true freshman QB to throw the ball. Hopefully, the Gator defensive backs will make some big plays and score defensive points.

Florida won’t win without those points. As much potential as Franks has, he’s a year away from putting the kind of points on the board that win games.

The Gator defense needs to hold Georgia to 24 points or less for the Gators to have a chance….let’s hope the offense can score enough.

It certainly doesn’t help that we’ve now lost another starter for the season. Sharif will be missed at defensive tackle. That makes 21 scholarship football players unable to play for the Gators Saturday. If the backups don’t step up, we’ll be leaving with our huge tails between our legs.

But, remember. This is Georgia vs. Florida. Strange things happen in this game. So lets hope the Gators make it four in a row over the puppy dogs!

Take the Gators and 14… but a Gator win will be tough.

THE GREAT EIGHT™for WEEK NINE

FLORIDA vs #3 GEORGIA...Kirby Smart's pups are starting to hit on all cylinders as they chug their way to an Atlanta showdown with Alabama for the SEC Championship. Meanwhile Florida coach Jim McElwain gets stranger by the minute with his "fake news" death threats that we think was his weird way of motivating his undermanned team. This game will be over by the half. Dawgs finally win one in Jacksonville.

TENNESSEE @ KENTUCKY...beleageured Vol coach Butch Jones is looking to pull an "Orgeron" by going on a five game win streak that just might save his fanny in Knoxville. Their game tomorrow with the Wildcats will speak volumes since a depleted Tennessee team (lost their top RB to high times) limps into Lexington as a 4 1/2 point underdog. Tennessee will be looking to score their first offensive touchdown since the UMass game back in September. That's how bad their offense has become. Wildcats rebound and bite Smokey's butt. Cats win.

#2 PENN STATE @ #6 OHIO STATE...to say this is a HUGE game is an understatement. Plenty of top playmakers will be on display as both teams compete for the inside track for the Big Ten Championship game AND a likely berth in the College Football Playoff. Put your bucks on the Buckeyes.

#7 CLEMSON @ GEORGIA TECH...on paper these teams are pretty evenly matched. But the games are not played on paper. For Clemson, the unranked Yellow Jackets are a dangerous team to face. When the Bees execute the triple option properly, it's a thing of beauty. This will be a great night cap of a game. Take the Jackets and the points (14.5).

#16 MICHIGAN STATE @ NORTHWESTERN...this could be one of the better games on Saturday with both teams picking up steam of late. The Spartans are returning to their old form (pre 2016) and the Wildcats have just gutted out a big win over Iowa, and feature one of its best running backs ever, Justin Jackson. In an UPSET SPECIAL, Cats claw Sparty.

#14 NC STATE @ #9 NOTRE DAME...the Irish really need to win this one if they want to continue climbing the polls and get into the playoff conversations. A tall order for sure. Meanwhile the Wolfpack has quietly put together a 6-1 season and is sneaking up on the Irish. This makes for a compelling game for sure. Take the Irish over the Pack.

#21 SOUTHERN CAL @ ARIZONA STATE...while the once-ranked #3 Trojans are slipping the Sun Devils are climbing and this game will impact the Pac 12 South. USC has dropped two huge road games with losses to Notre Dame and Washington State, and they need to right the ship in Tempe. They have the weapons as long as qb Sam Darnold takes care of the ball. And look for Trojan rb Ronald Jones II to make some noise. Men of Troy in this one.

#11 OKLAHOMA STATE @ #22 WEST VIRGINIA...this game showcases perhaps two of America's top quarterbacks: Mason Rudolph of the Cowboys and Will Grier of WVU. Both can air it out big time and both have some of the top receivers in the country. This game could well be an elimination game for the Big 12, with plenty of points scored. Ride with the Cowboys.

this is a test to see if anyone really reads this far down the page. If you respond in the "comments" window with the word "bite me" your name will be added to the drawing for Woolard's Weekend Winners swag. Good luck!

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

THIRD SATURDAY IN OCTOBER

We hit a little speed bump last weekend, going 4-4 in our overall picks. Not our best but we did hit on our UPSET SPECIAL with South Carolina upending the hapless Vols, 15-9, in one of the worst displays of game management in the last 2 minutes of that contest.

The good news: we're still sitting at a lofty 69% overall with season to date picks (see the nifty chart). That's a pretty stout percentage and it's making us a heaping, steaming pile of freshly printed greenbacks. Cha ching.

Week Eight brings us some top games that have championship ramifications as the season heads into its second half. Southern Cal visits the Vatican. Michigan heads to Happy Valley. Louisville plays in Tally Town.

We've seen our share of this great Classic

And, of course, it's the Third Saturday in October which features the annual match up of Tennessee and Alabama.

While this may not be the marquee game of seasons past, it's still a special game featuring two of the South's oldest rivals. No question that the series has been streaky, and Bama has had the upper hand of late. But most of the games between these two schools have been pretty tight. And if you like college football, then you'll love watching the Big Orange and the Crimson Tide knock heads.

The Master and the Pupil. Dig the game-day attire.

My first "live" experience was in 1973 at Legion Field in Birmingham. ABC, with Keith "Whoa Nellie" Jackson, was on hand to broadcast this nationally televised game. #10 Tennessee, coached by Bama alum Bill Battle (one of the youngest coaches at the time), entered the game at 5-0. The Vols were led by the legendary quarterback, Condredge Holloway, from nearby Huntsville, Alabama.

The atmosphere was thick with excitement with fans hanging from the upper decks of rickety Legion Field. And it was loud! And oh so hot!

The Vols played Bear Bryant's #2 Crimson Tide nose to nose and entered the fourth quarter, 21-21; an upset in the making. Then all hell broke loose.

Seldom used player, Robin Cary, returned a Tennessee punt for 64 yards for pay dirt. Then one of the biggest tailbacks I've ever seen, #80 Wilbur Jackson, broke off an 80 yard touchdown run. After a fumbled kickoff was cashed in for another Tide touchdown, Alabama was sitting on top of a 42-21 victory.

It was a tough loss for us Vol fans, and made for a long ride back to Knoxville. But it was a helluva experience to witness first hand what great Southern football was all about and one that this guy will never forget. A tip of the houndstooth hat to my Alabama friends.

We couldn't let this weekend slip by without getting some words of wisdom from two of our worthy members, Kenny Clyde from Alabama-land.

INSIDE INSIGHT FROM KENNY CLYDE

Kenny Clyde: he may run for office

Well it's the Third Saddidy in Hoctoba, the traditional date of one of the most traditional match-ups in college football history:  UT/Bama!

All over K'ville this week, snot-nosed English majors are runnin' around with puke orange tee shirts saying BEAT BAMA!

I only bring that up to show the difference between those east Tennessee booger-eaters and our fine young men and women in Tuscaloosa, who's shirts read "BEAT EVERYBODY!"

But, I digest...

The real story heah is the Vol's semi-annual trip down to The Capstone of Higher Education for their (mostly) annual ass whuppin. (Since this clash began in 1901, Bama leads the series 54-38-7, with UT's last win coming in 2006.) More to the point, ole Sgt. Carter's beady little pitbull eyes haven't seen a winning number on his side of the Bryant-Denny scoreboard since.....never!

And I 'spect he'll leave teary-eyed this Saddidy, knowing that it will be his last trip.

The Tide is again on a roll again this year, with a #1 SEC rankings in yards and points per game, at 484 and 42.7.  UT brings up the SEC rear at #14 with 320 and 21.7.

The sad fact is that UT's great RB John Kelly's rushing total is 6 yards behind Bama's QB! (552 to 558, for those of you mathematically inclined but unable to remove your work boots right now to count it yourself.)  And Damien Harris has 622 by hissef!  (Expect to see him plus our other 3 All-Americans all day.)

'Bout now, if you are one of those orange overall wearing checkerheads you're thinking, "yeah, but we might get some critical turnovers to upset the Champs."  Well sorry Trafficcone, Bama leads in interceptions 10-2, and sacks 19-13.

However, there is a bright spot for UT in the kicking game, despite the unusual drought in the Colquit gene pool.  Returner Marquez Callaway is #2 in the SEC.  And punter Trevon Daniel is #3 SEC, with a 48 yard average in 35 attempts.

Poor ole Bama's punter doesn't get as much practice, and has only made 22. All in all, it looks like its gonna be a clear, blue sky Bama perfect day in T'town, and a safe bet to take Bama despite the 34 point odds. 

I pawned old Momma Hendrick's teeth to do it--so should you.

THE GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK EIGHT

When you lose Food Lion

TENNESSEE @ #1 ALABAMA...the Vols haven't scored a touchdown in the last ten quarters and are turning to their red shirt freshman QB, hoping to generate some kind of offense. But that's only part of the problem. The bigger issue is the peculiar game decisions made by Butch Jones in which often the best playmakers are not being utilized, or running the same plays that defenses know are coming. All of which have landed Jones squarely on the hot seat. This could be another blow out for the Tide as Saban is fine tuning their game for another championship run. The line is too tempting (35.5 points) and we think that Tennessee will somehow keep the Tide from covering. So take Tennessee and the points. Bama wins; does not cover.

#11 SOUTHERN CAL @ #9 NOTRE DAME...oh what a difference a year makes! This time last year Irish head coach Brian Kelly was close to being run out of South Bend. Now his 5-1 team are poised to make a serious run for the College Football Playoff. But first they need to knock off the emerging Trojans (6-1). While both teams can put up points, the defenses will set the tone with the Irish coming out of top. Take Notre Dame over the Trojans.

OREGON @ UCLA...the wounded Ducks will flap their way to Pasadena having lost their last two games while UCLA is coming off of a loss to Arizona. The once high flying Ducks have scored just 7 and 10 points respectively in their previous two games. Meanwhile Josh Rosen has been a bright spot for the Bruins as he averages over 400 passing yards per game and has 17 passing TDs so far. The downside for UCLA: their defense which gives up an average of 523 yards per game. Ouch. We think Rosen will have a strong outing and the Bruin defense will do just enough to trim the wings of the Ducks. Take the Bruins over the Ducks.

#19 MICHIGAN @ #2 PENN STATE...the undefeated Nittany Lions are starting to roar under the leadership of head coach James Franklin but they face a killer stretch with Michigan, Ohio State, followed by Michigan State. Penn State's rb Saqoun Barkley has emerged as a Heisman candidate and qb Trace McSorely is coming into his own. But this game will be decided by defense. Penn State is number one in the FBS scoring defense, allowing only 9 points per game. The Wolverines are number one in total defense, giving up just 223 yards per game. So this game has a little of everything: strong offense and even stronger defense. We think the Wolverine offense will continue to struggle. Penn State chews the Wolverines.

WAKE FOREST @ GEORGIA TECH...the Jackets are still stinging after a close, soggy loss to Miami. If losing the game wasn't bad enough, Tech's leading tackler, lb Brant Mitchell will miss this game due to injury, as well as the starting kicker, Shawn Davis, loss for the season with a torn ACL. The good news, KirVonte Benson is cleared and ready to pick up where he left off as one of Tech's leading rushers. The series with the Deacs is pretty lopsided with the Bees owning Wake 22-8. It should be a perfect, dry night and a fast track for Tech's triple option. Jackets sting the Deacons at Bobby Dodd.

#24 LSU @ MISSISSIPPI...can Coach O keep it happening? The guy was on the hot seat just two short weeks ago and now is winning the hearts and souls of the LSU faithful after beating Auburn and Florida. Remarkable. But if LSU thinks it can waltz out of Oxford with an easy win, they better think twice. Ole Miss has a high flying aerial game; the best passing game in the SEC, averaging over 357 yards per game. And the Rebel run game ranks 6th in the conference with 191 yards per game. We think the Rebs will be up for this game. Take Ole Miss over the Tigers.

LOUISVILLE @ FLORIDA STATE...this game was originally projected to be a slug fest between two Top Ten teams. Well, that was back in August. Louisville (4-3) limps into Tallahassee coming off of two straight losses and searching for answers. Meanwhile FSU (2-3) is trying to find itself as well. If anything, the Cardinals can put up points, which we think they will do on Saturday. In an UPSET SPECIAL, Cardinals fly high over the 'Noles.

IOWA @ NORTHWESTERN...this game features two teams that are so evenly matched. If you look at all the metrics - offense, defense - and personnel, the numbers are all very close. So what will make the difference? The Wildcats qb Thorson is prone to throwing INTs; 9 so far. And that could make a huge difference as turnovers could decide this game. Take the Hawkeyes over the 'Cats.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

COME ON LUCKY SEVEN
Well we're here at Week Seven, roughly the half way point of the 2017 season.

And what a season we're having!

Sweet Seventy One

After six weeks we've posted a 71% hit rate on our picks. Fantastic. Awesome. Cha ching.

And last week we hit on our UPSET SPECIAL with Alabama failing to cover the 25 point spread in their game with Texas A&M (final score 27-19). Cha ching ching. We missed on a couple of games but we're happy to see LSU win a big one over Florida to take some of the heat off of Coach O, and the Spartans served up a dish of humble crow to Michigan's Harbaugh.

We have another great slate of games for Week Seven and another great chance to add to our coffers.

EXTRA POINTS
• What's with the ACC games on Friday nights? Fridays should be exclusively for high school football. And most ACC coaches agree with us. It's all about the dollar and TV contracts.
• Three SEC teams adorn this week's Top Ten...Alabama, Georgia, Auburn
• Georgia's defense have carried them to a #4 ranking, the highest since I had hair.
• Oklahoma embarrassed by Iowa State. The first time the Cyclones have beaten the Sooners since I had hair.
•Michigan gets de-pants by Michigan State and drops 10 spots from 7 to 17.
• We're nominating BYU's Cosmo the Cougar as our Mascot of the Week. Take a look.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=885p-EbHfig

GREAT EIGHT for WEEK SEVEN

GEORGIA TECH @ #11 MIAMI...if the Jackets are looking for respect and a place in the polls then a road win over the Hurricanes will certainly do it. The Canes will be missing their top running back, Walton, wide receiver, Richards. Also missing will be a starting guard, safety and cornerback. So a banged up Miami team may be ripe for an upset as they come off of a big win over FSU. And the Bees come in rested and ready. The key will be if Miami, a team that struggles with run defense, can slow down GT's TaQuon Marshall and KirVonte Benson. In an UPSET SPECIAL Take Johnson's Jackets over the Canes.

SOUTH CAROLINA @ TENNESSEE...if Botch Jones is looking for a get-well game against the Game Cocks, fagetaboutit. This could very well be the "lose-and-you're-gone game" for Jones as he shuffles the deck chairs and changes QBs. But after watching Jarrett Guarnantano in previous games we're not sure if he can deliver the jolt the Vols really need. Their problems run much deeper. We think Muschamp's Cocks matchup better especially at quarterback with Jake Bentley who had a fairly successful outing last Saturday versus Arkansas. In another UPSET SPECIAL, Cocks crow on Rocky Top.

#12 OKLAHOMA @ TEXAS....the Red River Shootout features new head coaches of both teams for the first time since 1947. And both coaches need a win. Sooner's coach Lincoln Riley suffered a major defeat last week to Iowa State. Ouch. Meanwhile Texas is still smarting from its opening game meltdown to Maryland and an overtime loss to Southern Cal. Both teams can point up points but we think the Sooners rebound with a win over the Longhorns. Oklahoma ropes in the 'Horns.

#10 AUBURN @ LSU...the War Eagles are sitting at #10 but quite honestly we're not sure if they're really worthy of that lofty perch since they've played a pretty soft schedule since losing to Clemson. But we shall see. Meanwhile, LSU is coming off a big win over Florida but is still chafing over its embarrassing loss to Troy. Auburn has lost its last 8 consecutive visits to Baton Rouge so home field advantage could be a factor for LSU, which should have Guice back in the backfield. Both teams have an opportunity to make a statement in the SEC West. Auburn finally snaps the Baton Rouge jinx. Take Auburn in this one.

OREGON @ #23 STANFORD...the Ducks are struggling after they were blasted by Washington State last Saturday. Compounding their situation is losing their starting qb and going with a back up, Braxton Burmeister, who struggled in his first start, even attracting boos from the Oregon faithful. While the Stanford defense is not as stout as in previous seasons, the Cardinal offense moves the chains, especially with their run game. Take the Cardinal over the Ducks.

NAVY @ MEMPHIS...has any Power 5 team given any thought to hiring Navy's head coach, Ken Niumatalolo? Seriously. That guy can coach and given the uniqueness of the Naval Academy, his success is especially impressive. Both teams will rack up yardage as both average over 500+ offensive yards per game. But here's the rub. While Memphis can move the ball, they allow over 500 yards per game. And we think they will have their hands full with the Middies option offense that cranks out 414 rushing yards per game. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take NAVY.

#9 OHIO STATE @ NEBRASKA...the Buckeyes are still smarting from an early season loss to Oklahoma but seem to be on the right track back to the top. Meanwhile Nebraska is still trying to find itself as it sits at 3-3, and has quarterback issues with Tanner Lee who has thrown a Big Ten-worst 10 interceptions. Oy. The line on this game (24 points) is very tempting but we think Ohio State will cover in Lincoln. Take the Buckeyes over the Huskers.

UCLA @ ARIZONA...the Bruins are putting up some pretty impressive offensive numbers, averaging 436 passing yards and over 500 total offensive yards per game. Josh Rosen continues to impress and will do more of the same against a soft Arizona defense. In a close one, take the Bruins over the Wildcats.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™

I'M A WINNER. YOU'RE A WINNER

Dialing up the dollars!

Everyone's a winner!

Especially if you followed our picks last week as we went 6-2 including a tasty UPSET SPECIAL pick with Washington State upsetting #5 Southern Cal.

So, as we enter Week Six, we're sitting at 70% on total WINNERS in the 2017 Season. And that adds up to a whole lotta cha ching.

We have another weekend of great games. Which means another chance for great gains (see what we did there?).

FROM THE MAILROOM....

We've got mail

We love hearing from our subscribers. Good or bad, mean or nice, we value your feedback. We want to hear from you so drop us a line. Here's some recent mail.

H*********@gmail.com..."Your K-Patch Karl bit was so mean spirited and insensitive to those with mental health issues. Disappointed."
D******@comcast.com....."Loved the insight from K-Patch Karl. Funny as shit and oh so true."
G********@yahoo.com...."I've seen Sling Blade a bunch of times and nearly pissed myself when I read K-Patch Karl's take on the Tennessee game. You nailed it. More Karl please!"
R************@gmail.com...."No Ivy League games?!! Come on, step up your game!"
M*******@gmail.com....."Thanks for adding more Pac-12 games. Nice to know that west coast games matter (WCGM)."
J********@comcast.com..."I finally did some online betting and followed your picks. And I won!! Thank you, thank you, thank you. Please don't tell my husband."

CATCHING UP WITH K-PATCH KARL

Killing it with Karl

We've received a ton of positive feedback on K-Patch Karl so we've asked him to pen a few words about a potential coaching change in Knoxville.

WWW: Have you changed your mind about Butch Jones yet?
KARL: No, sir, not yet.
WWW: How long have you been feeling this way?
KARL: Quite a spell, I reckon.

WWW: So you think Tennessee ought to fire Butch?
KARL: You know better than that. You ought not say that word.
WWW: What word? Fire?
KARL: Hmmghm.

WWW: Have you figured out what's wrong with the Tennessee offense? It won't crank but everything seems to be put together right.
KARL: It ain't got no gas in it. Hmmmghm.

GREAT EIGHT™ for WEEK SIX

What comes first? Stroke or Firing?

LSU @ #21 FLORIDA...things aren't that rosy in Baton Rouge as rumors are flying about Orgeron's future as head coach. Sorry Tiger fans. You're stuck with Crazy Ed because barring any weird act of perversion and morals clause violation, no university wants to be known as the school that ditches its head coach less than one year on the job, especially after running off the successful Les Miles last season. With that as a back drop, Coach O has his work cut out for him as LSU scrambles to find itself after getting physically whipped by lowly Troy. Meanwhile, Florida, still without the "missing nine", are returning to their freshman QB Franks after Luke Del Rio suffered yet another injury. This will be a good one to watch. Gators chomps the Tigers in the Swamp.

#22 NOTRE DAME @ NORTH CAROLINA...we don't think the Irish will be the least bit intimidated playing on the road at Kenan Stadium. It was quite obvious last week that the Tar Heels (1-4) are missing a ton of play makers as they struggled with Georgia Tech, and this Saturday doesn't get any easier. The spread is pretty tempting (17 points) but we think Notre Dame takes care of business pretty quickly in Chapel Hill. Irish shear the Tar Heels.

Miami Vice: Bulldog to Badass

#13 MIAMI @ FLORIDA STATE...the undefeated Canes are chomping at the bit to finally clobber the Noles (1-2) after losing 7 straight to FSU. Mark Richt seems to have his Canes finally moving in the right direction and has two really strong running backs at his disposal: Mark Walton and Travis Homer. This game is a toss up but we like Miami. Hurricanes storm through Tallahassee.

MARYLAND @ #10 OHIO STATE...the Terps have been averaging over 38 points per game. But their defense has been yielding 30 points. Meanwhile the Buckeyes defense has been stingy; giving up just 16 points per game. But this Terp team is not the same team that was clobbered 62-3 last season so we expect a much more competitive game at Ohio Stadium, especially after two strong road wins at Texas and Minnesota. Will Ohio State "Fear the Turtle"? Doubtful, since the Buckeyes have the 5th rated offense in America. Put your bucks on the Buckeyes.

#16 WASHINGTON STATE @ OREGON...the Cougars are undefeated (5-0) as they roll into Autzen Stadium, one of the tougher venues in which to play as a visitor. The Ducks (4-1) high flying offense (averages 537 yards per game) is banged up and will probably have to go with their third team qb, true frosh Braxton Burmeister. That's tough duty when you consider WSU's top rated pass defense in the Pac 12, and the Cougar offense is led by qb Luke Falk who is second in the conference in passing stats and has a deadly 75% completion rate. Count of the Cougars to ground the Ducks.

#1 ALABAMA @ TEXAS A&M...we heard earlier this week that Nick Saban's standard of success is when opponents hate playing Alabama, especially in the 4th quarter after getting physically beat on the entire game. Saturday, the Tide will have another opportunity of pounding an opponent when they  take on the Aggies in College Station. After blowing a 44-10 lead over UCLA, the Aggies have quietly won their last 4 games including wins over South Carolina and Arkansas. Despite Bama's dominance, we can't ignore the 25 point spread. Bama wins but fails to cover. So take the Aggies and the points in an UPSET SPECIAL.

No bro love here.

MICHIGAN STATE @ #7 MICHIGAN...the Spartans are trying to rebound from their disastrous 3-9 season in 2016 and are off to a good start, although a couple of their wins have been over relatively weak teams (Bowling Green, Western Michigan). And this is their FIRST road game...and at the Big House! Ouch. And the first time ever that these two teams play at night. Although the Wolverines will rely on back up qb John O'Korn, the Maize and Blue should turn Sparty black and blue. Wolverines bite the Spartans.

#8 WISCONSIN @ NEBRASKA...the table is set for this game. Nebraska has a string of 358 sellouts dating back to 1962. Both are the only undefeated teams in the Big 10 West. No love between these schools. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Oh. And it's a night game in Lincoln and nobody has beaten the Huskers at night in Lincoln since 2008 (memo to Nebraska: maybe think about playing all your games at night. Just a suggestion). After a poor start losing to Oregon and Northern Illinois, the Huskers are trying to right the ship and reduce the flames on Coach Riley's butt. The Badgers have won four in a row over the Bug Eaters and have one of the tougher defenses in America. And that will win the day (or night) for Wisconsin. Badgers bite the Huskers in Lincoln.

MAKE MO' MONEY with MARK™