PRETTY SPECIAL WITH 4 OF 5 UPSET SPECIALS

It was a crazy Saturday tracking games and keeping an eye on a couple of key contests on the tube while entertaining VIP visitors at the lake. But somehow we managed.

Nifty Chart™says it all

We went 5 of 8 overall. But making it extra schweet was hitting on 4 of 5 UPSET SPECIALS. So if you took our picks, then it's time to show us some love because you made some serious coin...again.

YOUR WEEKEND REWIND....

THE GOOD...

Tennessee was one or two plays away from winning in Athens but with the points, you came away a winner as the Vols beat the 17 point spread and gave a pretty good scare to the mutts. The game played out pretty much as expected: the Vols exploited the UGA secondary and Todd Gurley ran crazy in the 4th quarter. No signature win yet for bUTch.

Mizzou rebounded nicely in this UPSET SPECIAL as they knocked off South Carolina, 21-20.  By our count, Spurrier's visor went airborne at least a dozen times as the Tigers rallied from a 13 point deficit late in the game.

It took a monster comeback by the Aggies to survive a Razorback scare, 35-28, with two late touchdowns and a missed Arkansas field goal. But, you still won if you took the Hogs and the points in this UPSET SPECIAL. Key stat to ponder: Arkansas has lost 14 consecutive SEC games.

Maryland topped Indiana 37-15 as the Terps limited the nation's leading rusher Tevin Coleman to 122 yards on 22 carries, more than 75 yards below his average. This was Maryland's first Big Ten conference game and they came out winners in this UPSET SPECIAL.

Southern Cal took care of the Oregon State Beavers, 35-10, as Trojan qb Cody Kessler went 24 of 32 and has yet to throw an INT this season while their defense has not yield a TD pass.

THE BAD...

Our luck of betting against Miami finally came to an end as they defeated Duke, 22-10. This was our lone upset special that went sideways, much like Duke's offense that sputtered with only 264 yards offense and ten points...slightly off their average of 441 yards and 35 points per game.

The Nittany Lions fell completely flat as they lost at home 29-6 to Northwestern. While I'm partial to the Wildcats, we were expecting a stronger effort from Penn State, especially at home and with Northwestern struggling. Interesting note: PSU qb Hackenberg hasn't thrown a touchdown pass in the last 3 games after starting the season with a sizzling 773 passing yards in the first two games. Not a good trend line.

THE UGLY...

If Brady Hoke survives this season it will be a miracle. The Wolverines were whipped again at home, 30-14, this time by the Golden Gophers. But compounding this loss was a gross lack of judgment when Hoke and his staff failed to remove their quarterback, Shane Morris, from the game after it was so obvious that he was in la la land after getting his bell rung. No excuse for this at all, especially with all of the recent attention to concussions and brain injuries. This will be one more reason to cut Hoke loose.

We'll see you later in the week with more winning picks.

 Have a Winning Week!

READY TO WIN? OR READY TO WHINE?

It's Week Five of college football and the intensity of play is starting to pick up as most schools are beginning conference play. And in most cases, a single loss is bad news in competitive leagues.

Like previous weeks, we're feeling pretty good about our UPSET SPECIALS and we're rolling the dice again this week with five key upsets on the docket. It's high risk but high reward, and that's what we're all about. So take a quick read and get ready for another great Saturday.

Your Great Eight™ winning picks...

Duke @ Miami...the Blue Devils are still unranked despite opening the season with four straight wins. And they're underdogs on the road at Miami. No respect for Cutcliffe's crew. If they contain the Cane's Duke Johnson, we think QB Anthony Boone can lead the Dookies to another win and a number in front of their name. UPSET SPECIAL...Duke bedevils the Hurricanes.

Tennessee @ #12 Georgia...this has been one of the more entertaining series in the SEC and Tennessee is hoping they can snap a four year losing streak to the bull pups. Two names that will be key to each team's success tomorrow: Vol linebacker AJ Johnson and Georgia tailback Todd Gurley. For Tennessee to have a chance of winning, Johnson, who averages about 10 tackles per game, and his fellow linebackers must find a way to control Georgia's potent run game led by Gurley, and force Hutson Mason to throw. In an UPSET SPECIAL, take Tennessee and the points.

Arkansas @ #6 Texas A&M...it's tempting to take Arkansas in this one especially with their run early/run often rush strategy which is ranked #8 nationally. But the Aggies feature a passing game ranked #4 in the country led by QB Kenny Hill and six receivers that have double digit receptions. We're going old school with this one and are putting our money on the Razorback run game. UPSET ALERT...Hogs with the points will root it out.

Missouri @ #13 South Carolina...the Tigers are still smarting from last week's 31-27 upset loss to Indiana and are looking to get back on track with an upset win over the Gamecocks. South Carolina's offense has yet to hit full stride and their running game averages less than 70 yards per game with Mike Davis struggling for traction. Maty Mauck could be the difference against a South Carolina defense that struggled with Vandy last week. This should be one of the better games this weekend, especially if the Tigers can get Spurrier to throw his cap a few times. In another UPSET SPECIAL, Tigers chop the Cocks.

Northwestern @ Penn State...the Nittany Lions are 4-0 with first year head coach James Franklin. While their run game as been flat, QB Christian Hackenberg has carried the team with his arm, while the defense has been pretty tough, holding opponents to 270 yards total offense, including an FBS-best 49 rushing yards...which is Northwestern's best attribute. Could be a long night in College Park. Lions roar.

Minnesota @ Michigan...this is the Big Ten opener for both teams in a series that has been dominated of late by the Wolverines. Brady Hoke is hoping that he can clear the slate with another win over the Golden Gophers. There's no question that the Michigan offense has struggled but we think it gets back on track tomorrow.  Look for the Wolverines to chomp some Gophers.

Oregon State @ #18 Southern Cal...one name to remember in this game is Cody Kessler, the Trojan quarterback who has completed over 70% of his passes with NO interceptions. Another key stat to chew on: the Beavers have not won at LA Coliseum since 1960.  That trend continues tomorrow as the Trojans trump the Beavers.

Maryland @ Indiana...the Hoosiers are still pumped after upsetting reigning SEC East champ Mizzou last week. Can they keep that momentum going this week? We think the Terps have the firepower to keep pace as QB CJ Brown has gotten stronger and has plenty of talented playmakers surrounding him. In an UPSET SPECIAL...Terps trip the Hoosiers.

Let's check in on Monday and see if we're winning or whining!

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK™

UPSET SPECIALS FUEL GREAT WEEKEND.

It was another late night of great college football and if you took our picks your evening was even greater!

Awesome numbers, huh?

For the second straight Saturday, we went deep with our UPSET SPECIALS, hitting on two of three underdog picks: Mississippi State over LSU, and Georgia Tech beating Virginia Tech; both wins coming on the road!

All in all, we went Six of Eight, which makes for an awesome day, and pushes our winning percentage to a schweet 69%.


THE GOOD

The affair in Baton Rouge was a classic. Dak Prescott lived up to expectations as he led Mississippi State to an upset win over #8 LSU. The victory catapulted the Bulldogs to a #14 ranking. As predicted, Dan Mullen dialed up the Dog defense to harass Tiger QB Ant Jennings (Marietta Blue Devil) all night long as the Tigers struggled to put points on the board. The last few minutes of the game were interesting but Missy State hung on to win and send a clear message that they can compete in the SEC West. Hail State.

Jackets steal a "W" and a "T"

Neither team deserved to win but underdog Georgia Tech did just enough to steal a tough road victory at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, 27-24, and are now 4-0 as they prepare to take on the Hurricanes in two weeks. With the defeat of the Gobblers, the Jackets have an inside track to the Coastal Division, but it's early early.

Oklahoma handled the Mountaineers but it wasn't easy, winning 45-33. Sooner tailback Samaje Perine rushed for 242 yards and 4 touchdowns as Oklahoma pulled away late in the game.

The stat guys are still working overtime in Tuck-a-loser as the Crimson Tide opened up a can of old fashion whup ass on the Lizards, 42-21. Blake Sims passed for 445 yards as the Tide rolled up 645 total yards of offense. The seat only gets hotter for Will Muschamp.

If UT beats Bama I'm getting a Butch tattoo

The Seminoles showed why they are still #1 as back up QB Sean McQuire did enough for the Noles to win in overtime, 23-17. Clemson is a tough team to beat, and with the head thug on the sideline, the Tigers pushed it into OT.

Nebraska took care of business with the Miami Hurricanes in Lincoln, 41-31. Ameer Abdullah logged 229 rushing yards and seems to have inserted himself into the Heisman conversation. We think he definitely deserves consideration especially if he keeps up the pace.

THE BAD

The Utes (cue My Cousin Vinny) embarrassed the Wolverines in the Big House, 26-10...another Big Ten loss to a non-conference foe, which by the way was the only Big Ten loss of the weekend. Unless Michigan turns it around real fast, this ain't gonna end well for Brady Hoke (cue the moving vans).

THE UGLY

Pirates sending a message

We picked UNC to beat East Carolina but boy were we ever off...like most others in America. The Tar Heels gave up 70 points to the Pirates in an embarrassing 70-41 blow out ; the most points and yards (789) ever allowed by North Carolina. You woulda thought we were talking roundball.

 Have a winning week!

NO GUTS. NO GLORY. WEEK FOUR WINNERS FOR YOU.

At the encouraging of a few followers, last week we were pretty aggressive in loading up on Upset Specials and we hit on a few of them.  Cha ching, we do love the color green!!

This week, we offer more of the same.

Your Weekend Winners...The Great Eight™

Mississippi State @ #8 LSU...nothing's wilder than a night game in Baton Rouge and this match up promises to be just that. The Bulldogs have lost 14 straight to the Tigers but this time could be different. Mullen's mutts are led by one of America's most exciting quarterbacks, Dak Prescott. Meanwhile LSU QB Jennings has not looked terribly sharp and will be greatly tested by an aggressive Bulldog defense. Take the Bulldogs and the points. UPSET ALERT: Dogs bite the Tigers.

Florida @ #3 Alabama...the Tide is tough to beat in Tuscaloosa but this team has not quite found its running level either on offense or defense. Meanwhile Florida's new spread offense looks pretty potent under the guidance of new offensive coordinator, Kurt Roper from Duke. But after a triple overtime engagement with Kentucky, we think the sheer strength of Bama's running game of Yeldon/Henry/Drake will be way too much for the Gators to handle. Bama gigs the Gators.

#22 Clemson @ #1 Florida State...last season we were singing the praises of Jameis Winston. Now, we hope he never returns to football given his character issues and lack of honesty.  FSU has suspended this thug-in-the-making for the Entire Game (late news flash) which could give the Tigers an opportunity. But will that be enough? No. Sean McGuire is a pretty solid back up plus FSU has a pretty stout defense. And FSU has five seniors on their o-line. And that could be the difference. Noles handle the Tigers in a tight one.

Miami @ #24 Nebraska...in years past, this matchup use to mean a national championship was on the line. My how times have changed. Given the Big Ten's problems in beating quality opponents of late, this game means a lot to both the Bug Eaters and the Big Ten. RB Ameer Abdullah is one of the best talents in America and the Husker running game will test a much improved Miami defensive front. Should be a rowdy time in Lincoln. Huskers tame the Canes.

#4 Oklahoma @ West Virginia...the Sooners have won both meetings since the Mountaineers joined the Big 12...by a combined 10 points. While it's tempting to take the points and run with WVU and their talented QB Clint Trickett, the Sooner's defense will be the difference. The Okie defense played havoc with Tennessee's offensive line last week and you'll see pretty much the same Saturday night as Stoops dials up his D. Sooners win in Morgantown.

Georgia Tech @ Virginia Tech...after escaping the Flats with a narrow win over Georgia Southern, the Yellow Jackets begin conference play with a road game to Blacksburg. While the offense appears to be in better shape with QB Justin Thomas, the Bee's defense is suspect. But given GT's triple option and now a pretty accurate passer in Thomas, Bud Foster can't play as aggressively as he'd normally like to. This may come down to who has the ball last. Take Tech and the points. UPSET ALERT: Bees sting Beamer's boys.

Utah @ Michigan...how bad does Brady Hoke need his Wolverines to win? Enough to keep the moving trucks away for at least another week or two. Utah has looked great on offense but they played two schools - Fresno State and Idaho State - that have lousy defenses. And this is their first road game of the year, not to mention going to a pretty hostile environment, The Big House in Ann Arbor. Wolverines claw the Utes.

North Carolina @ East Carolina....ordinarily we'd have no interest in this matchup. But last Saturday, the Pirates pulled a big upset in beating Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. This week, favored ECU goes for two straight against the ACC, and a repeat win over UNC. While the Tar Heels have a suspect defense, their offense can put up the points, averaging almost 44 points per game.  In an UPSET SPECIAL, Heels handle the Pirates.

Let's check back on Monday to see how we did.

MAKE MO MONEY WITH MARK™

WILD WEEKEND WRAP UP

If you noticed, we took a pretty aggressive approach to last Saturday's games, going with several Upset Specials. Sometimes you have to depart from the safe and predictable and follow the old mantra, "no guts, no glory."

Tracking success

Obviously, our results were less than desired but we did hit on three Upset Specials to more than make up for some of the misses. So, you got to feel good about that, right?

And some of our misses came pretty close to being wins (20-17, 23-21). But as we've always said, close only counts with horseshoes and hand grenades.

Anyway, our Nifty Chart™ on the right is still looking pretty good with a lot more football to be played.


The Good

The headliner game was #6 Georgia on the road to Columbia where they fell, as projected, to Spurrier's Gamecocks. When you give the Old Ball Coach a couple of weeks to plan and he has his back to the wall, watch out. That's why we felt pretty good about this Upset Special.

In another Upset Special, Georgia Tech failed to cover the spread and Georgia Southern came pretty darn close to embarrassing the Bees on the Flats. For Paul Johnson's sake, let's hope he fares better in ACC competition. If not, CPJ may be departing Bobby Dodd Stadium sooner than he might like (more on that in our Coaches Hot Seat feature).

When we called the Hogs, they came a running as the Arkansas Razorbacks upset the Texas Tech Red Raiders, 49-28. The Hogs ran wild with 438 rushing yards so it appears that the Arkansas offense is starting to fully adopt Bielema's Wisconsin run philosophy (last week the Hogs rang up 495 rushing yardage).

Duke whipped Kansas 41-3 in another standout win for the ACC over a non-conference foe. Rumor has it that Jayhawk coach Charlie Weis left at halftime for the Shoney's buffet.

The Bad

Coin toss boo boo

The #12 Bruins survived their trip to Texas but possibly lost their talented quarterback, Brett Hundley, for a couple of games with an elbow injury. Key highlight of the game was the botched pre game coin toss when Texas opted to play defense in the first half after UCLA elected to defer. Oops. Make that a big oops since one more possession could have made a difference in this 20-17 game.

We missed on the Tennessee-Oklahoma game when the #4 Sooners covered the spread. Tennessee was no match for Oklahoma's defensive line and Vol quarterback Worley will be spending the next four days in an ice tub courtesy his offensive line. Hopefully he'll be ready to head to Athens in a couple of weeks to take on the mutts.

The Cavaliers upset Louisville 23-21 when they converted a fumbled punt into a winning field goal. But UVA pretty much controlled the flow of this game for most of the day, and the win may quiet the posse that wants to run Mike London out of Charlottesville (another Hot Seat candidate).

The Ugly

Boston College beats #9 Southern Cal. Really?  Oh come on, Men of Troy! Was the cross-country flight really that bad? It must have been since BC rolled up 452 rushing yards to USC's measly 20 yards. You read that right!  Score another big win for the ACC (last week's VT over Ohio State) as this often overlooked conference is building some credibility beyond Florida State.

Have a Winning Week!

WAKE UP TO WINNING! WEEK 3.

We've been pressed for time the last couple of days so we'll get right to it with our Winning Picks for Saturday. I hate it when real work interferes with the fun stuff, especially this time of year.  But enough whining. Let's do some winning! You still have plenty of time to call your favorite sports book, and you'll love our aggressive stance with several UPSET SPECIALS on the docket.

Your Weekend Winners...the Great Eight™

Tennessee @ #4 Oklahoma...if you're a Vol fan the one thing you should be looking for in this game is continued improvement with a young team. The last time Tennessee faced off with a top team, they were blown out of the water (see the 2013 Oregon game). But that was last season and we think the Vols have made strides in closing the talent gap with the elite schools. While the Vols have little hope of leaving Norman with a win, we don't think the Sooners will cover the spread of 19.5 points. If Tennessee's Worley can continue to play smart (protect the ball, hit open receivers) then the Vols can make this an interesting contest. We're taking Tennessee and the points!

#6 Georgia @ #24 South Carolina...the pups have had a tough time winning in Columbia and we think this game will be no different. Spurrier, who's lifetime record against UGA is 15-6, knows that a second SEC loss closes the door to winning the East, and his Gamecocks play their best when they have their backs to the wall. The key is the Cock defense containing the Dawg's stable of running backs led by phenom Todd Gurley. This will be interesting. In an UPSET pick, Cocks crow in Columbia.

#12 UCLA @ Texas...the Bruins gave up 469 yards in last week's close win over Memphis. The Tigers exposed some weaknesses that has to be giving Jim Mora indigestion. Meanwhile, new Texas coach Charlie Strong is still recovering from the butt kicking that BYU served up. Although he struggled against BYU, we're still pretty high on the Longhorn qb Tyrone Swoopes (6'4, 245 lbs) who is a very gifted dual threat quarterback. In another UPSET SPECIAL, go with Texas.

Georgia Southern @ Georgia Tech...believe it or not, this is the very first meeting of these two in-state schools. Paul Johnson installed the triple option at GSU way back in the 90's and had a remarkable record of 62-10 in Statesboro. Despite being favored by 22+ points, this is not a gimme win for Tech who is ranked 110th in giving up rushing yardage at 5.1 yards per carry. And the Eagles will be running the ball. The Bees will win but not cover. Take Georgia Southern and the points.

Kansas @ Duke...this would be a perfect match up if these two were facing each other on the hardwood with Coach K taking on Coach Self. But this is a gridiron dual featuring Charlie Weis and good guy, David Cutcliffe. Weis has yet to prove that he is an effective college head coach, and we've seen the remarkable job Cutcliffe has done at Duke. The Blue Devils will prevail in Durham.

#9 Southern Cal @ Boston College...the Men of Troy went crazy in their opening win over Fresno State with 701 yards of offense on a conference record 105 plays. They cooled a bit in their close win over Stanford but we think they'll rev it back up when they kickoff in Chestnut Hill. Look for this game to be decided by halftime. Trojans pluck the Eagles.

#20 Louisville @ Virginia...the Cardinals have rolled up 97 points in their first two games which is no real surprise with a Bobby Petrino offense. But this is the first road test for Louisville which faces a pretty stubborn UVA defense and embattled head coach, Mike London. The Cards are a slight favorite and they should have no problem dispatching the Wahoos. Take Louisville in this one.

Arkansas @ Texas Tech...the Razorbacks appear to be a much improved team from last season as they roll into Lubbock to take on the Red Raiders. The Hogs will rely on their ground and pound run game which is currently ranked 12th with an average of 324 yards per game. Meanwhile, Texas Tech prefers their "air raid" offense which averages 365 yards per game. Quite a contrast in styles. In another UPSET SPECIAL, we're calling the Hogs.

Let's check back on Monday to see how we did.

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK™

HUSKER TAKES ISSUE WITH BIG TEN SLAM

Earlier this week we spoke of the dismal showing of the Big Ten and the narrow chances of a Big Ten team being selected for the four team playoff at season's end. In the interest of fair and balanced commentary, we, of course, invited your feedback. And that's when the phones started ringing.

We just polished off our ribeyes

It became pretty obvious we had touched a nerve, especially with one subscriber, "Harry Husker", a native of Fremont, Nebraska...a man of the plains, a man of the Midwest, a man of 26 ounce dry aged bone-in ribeyes. A true Nebraskan!

To best assuage hurt feelings, we offered to share Harry Husker's opinion in this forum. So below we have Harry Husker's take on the Big Ten and Nebraska football.

But first, let's have some Q&A with the man himself, Harry Husker.  

 Time for Q&A with Harry Husker...

Why are you such a big Cornhusker fan?   
Harry Husker:  I was raised in Nebraska, started my career there and studied at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. I am Nebraska. That's why I insisted that my answers appear in Nebraska red.

What’s your take on Nebraska moving to the Big Ten?  
Harry Husker: It was the right move. The Big 12 was floundering. Texas had everybody including the Huskers and Sooners under their thumb, but the bottom line was $$$$.  The money opportunity plus the prestige and recruiting futures looked too good to pass up.

Do you recall your very first Nebraska football game?   
Harry Husker: Yes, Sir!  1965, September 18th  (first game of the season; started late those years).  We beat Texas Christian,  34-14, and went undefeated in regular season that year...just to get our butts kicked by Bear Bryant in the Orange Bowl.

What makes Nebraska football special versus other schools?    

Harry's suite at Memorial Stadium

Harry Husker: I don’t think you can find anybody who has visited the campus for a game - teams, fans - that will not say how absolutely accommodating the people are. Nebraska has great fans, win or lose. And, we have the most collegiate scholar All Americans only surpassed by Notre Dame. And if you ever visit Nebraska in the winter you have got to wonder how we can recruit from outside of the Midwest.

What's tailgating like at a Nebraska game? 
Harry Husker: The school built a parking lot (about 15 acres) with the primary purpose to accommodate the fans and tailgate parties. Let me tell you...when farmers and ranchers party, the food doesn’t stop.  No grass fed, cardboard tasting meat at this party, and the vegans move out of town. It's all good!
 
Wildest Nebraska game ever watched/attended?  
Harry Husker: Of course, the Game of the Century...1971 Sooner game in Norman, Thanksgiving Day (almost lost my Mother's dinner twice). Absolute wild game with the Huskers coming out on top, 35-31. Anybody who loves college football needs to check out Heisman winner Johnny "the Jet" Rodgers' 72 yard TD punt return that set the tone for the game.

Do the Cornhuskers really own the Georgia bull puppies? 
Harry Husker: Loaded and dangerous question, Mark, especially since Princess is a Georgia alum. Although the record stands Nebraska 2-1 (folks forget about the 45-6 score in the 1969 Sun Bowl), both recent games with the Bulldogs have been much closer. Georgia edged the Huskers 45-31 in the 2013 Capital One Bowl, and this past January, Nebraska prevailed 24-19 in the Gator Bowl. Things can get a little tense around Chez Husker so I don't gloat too much.

Huskers ride for charity

Nebraska fans travel pretty well. What's up with that?
Harry Husker: Nebraska always shows up with thousands of fans to road games especially bowl games. In a regular season game with Hawaii, 40,000 Nebraskans showed up.  That's important to note since the old Aloha Stadium (torn down after this game due to termites) held only 25,000.  We love our Husker football.

We hear you're a big biker. How many miles do you typically put in?
Harry Husker: I try to do a minimum of 20 miles, but been doing longer rides lately. I find it very therapeutic. Plus it gets me out of doing chores around the house.

 And now, Harry Husker's take...

His name says it all

I was offered the chance to share my thoughts on the Big Ten and the Bug Eaters (original name for the Huskers) and while I believe this is a great honor, this hesitation set in. I rarely put anything in print that could go viral about the my true feelings for my Team and League, because passion often overrides discretion!

After some serious consternation about the Cornhusker game last Saturday versus McNeese State, and the total embarrassment of the Big Ten, I have chilled and realized that the final demise of both entities is greatly exaggerated and premature. Remember, it's a long season!  Although it will be an arduous task requiring some luck, the Huskers can still have a great season (11-1) and the Big Ten can still be represented in the playoffs. 

The Huskers have been a major concern since Tom Osborne left (1997). That's a long time of suffering. I believe we still have a coaching deficiency. First Solich, then Callahan, now Bo.  The Cornhuskers fans have been patient; no rush to the guillotine. We gave Solich 5 years, Callahan 3 years (took him that long to learn to spell Nebraska), and Pelini is now starting his 7th year, and a record that many schools would be envious of: six 9+ win seasons, 3 bowl victories. 

I keep reminding folks back on the plains it took Osborne 7 years just to beat the Sooners, and 21 years to get his first undisputed National title. Bo understands the psyche of the Husker beast, but this may very well be his last year of receiving Harry Husker's official support.  He has the talent. He finally has the speed. And he has the schedule. Nothing less than a Big Ten championship and a top 10 finish will save his job.   

Now, the BIG TEN is a whole other issue. But I believe that as the season ages (like fine cheese (stinky) or a classic wine (develops character), the league will turn around. Yet, it must be said that changes are needed and, in fact, are happening now.  Urban Meyer (Ohio State) and James Franklin (Penn State) being the agents of change. We'll see.
  
Check back tomorrow for your winning picks.

THE BIG TEN NOT SO BIG
We went 5 out of 8 this past Saturday, missing on a couple of games that, quite frankly, surprised all of the experts and talking heads. Naturally, we're disappointed. But not as much as the Big Ten conference.

The Ohio State Buckeyes were asleep at the wheel as the Va Tech Hokies surprised them 35-21, despite being heavily favored.

Nifty Chart™ says it all

And, the Michigan team apparently missed their busses to South Bend as the Irish closed out their rivalry with a 31-0 shut out.

We did hit on one of our Upset Specials as Southern Cal knocked off Stanford.

So, we're sitting now at 12-4 after two weeks (see Nifty Chart™ to the right).  Not too shabby but we hope to rebound this coming weekend.

While going 5-3 is a bit disappointing, check out what happened to the Big Ten this past Saturday.

To say the Big Ten got embarrassed this past Saturday is an understatement when you consider the following:

• Michigan State lost to Oregon in prime time (still a great game, though)
• Michigan gets blanked in South Bend by Notre Dame, 31-0.
• Ohio State gets gobbled up by the Hokies, 35-21 (how bout that ACC?).
• Northwestern loses to Northern Illinois, 23-15 (Mid American).
• Nebraska, a 35 point favorite, needed a last minute score to avoid loss to McNeese State (FCS)
• Iowa also needed a last minute TD to pull out a win over Ball State (Mid American)
• Purdue loses to Central Michigan 38-17 (Mid American)

With such a losing performance, the Big Ten might have just taken themselves out of the playoff conversation among the Power Five conferences. We know, we know...it's early. But I guarantee you that Big Ten Commissioner Delaney is scrambling right now to find the right talking points especially given that the Big Ten has not won a National Championship since 2002, and is 8-29 against ranked teams from the Power Five conferences since 2010. But, it's early.

Let us know if you think the Big Ten will land a team in the post-season playoff.

See you later this week with Saturday's picks.

MAKE MO MONEY with MARK™

Second Week with Big Wins Ahead.

The start of the 2014 college football season gave us six great days of exciting games, beginning with Texas A&M's bulldozing of South Carolina and ending with Louisville's ACC debut and a win over Miami. And we had everything in between including a rain out at the Swamp (isn't a swamp supposed to be wet and nasty?).

Anyway, it's a tall order for Week #2 to match the first week since this is not the best slate of games. But we still have some intriguing games, including a couple that may impact the end-of-season playoff scenario.

This week our lineup goes coast to coast and includes a couple of UPSET SPECIALS that could make you some serious jack.

So take a read, then call your favorite sports book.

Your Winning Picks...the GREAT EIGHT™...

High flying Duck

#7 Michigan State @ #3 Oregon...this game, no doubt, is THE marquee game of the weekend with national championship implications. Even with some key losses, the Sparty defense should play pretty tough but, honestly, they haven't seen an offense as potent as the Ducks and Marcus Mariota. It's been six years since a non-conference foe won at Autzen Stadium. That streak continues Saturday.Quack attack flies high.

#4 Oklahoma @ Tulsa....I'm sure there's a story about why a team that resides in the middle of the plains is called the Golden Hurricane. Afterall, when was the last time a hurricane hit Tulsa? That may be what it feels like after the Sooners finish off Tulsa for the 12th time in the last 13 meetings.  Could Tulsa catch Oklahoma looking ahead at next week's game with Tennessee? Doubtful. The Sooners, a 24+ point favorite, will show why its one of America's top teams. Sooners storm past the Golden Hurricane.

#15 Ole Miss @ Vanderbilt...as Vandy enters the post-James Franklin era, they showed their old selves last week flopping to Temple 37-7. Meanwhile, the Rebels showed the full range of quarterback Bo Wallace in one game...from incompetent fumbler to brilliant passer. If Wallace can be consistent, in a good way, the Ole Miss defense will stifle the 'Dores. Rebs make music in Nashville.

#14 Southern Cal @ #13 Stanford...this is the first Pac-12 contest of 2014 and should reveal if these two teams will be serious contenders down the stretch. Last week Southern Cal executed a mind numbing, conference record 104 offensive plays (norm is in the 75-80 play range) and 701 yards as they dominated Fresno State. Although the Cardinal are favored, they are replacing several losses on both lines as well as a running back. Does not bode well for Stanford as the Trojans take care of business down on the Farm in another UPSET SPECIAL.

Wolverines dine on leprechauns

Michigan @ #16 Notre Dame...this will be the last scheduled meeting of a great rivalry that dates  back to 1887. With new conference commitments, Notre Dame says it can no longer fit in the Wolverines which is a real shame but I guess you call that progress. Whatever. Regardless, this should be a pretty good match up. Michigan will showcase a new offense under OC Doug Nussmeier and a pretty stout backfield of Derrick Green and DeVeon Smith. The Irish return Everett Golson who missed all of last year for forgetting to go to class, and he looked pretty sharp last week, albeit it was against Rice. Despite playing in South Bend, we think the Wolverine defense can contain the Irish long enough for the offense to put points on the board. UPSET ALERT ....take Michigan and the points.

Virginia Tech @ #8 Ohio State...this is the very first meeting between these schools and the Horseshoe may not be a terribly hospitable environment for the Hokies. In fact, Va Tech is making it's first trip ever to a Big Ten campus, and the Buckeyes have not lost a non-conference home game since 2009. Beamer and company will be facing a pretty capable QB, J.T. Barrett, and one of the best defensive lines in America. On the other hand, the Buckeyes will be facing a Bud Foster defense, which is typically tops in the ACC, and this should keep the game interesting...for awhile. Buckyes pluck the Gobblers in Columbus.

There's a new sheriff in town

BYU @ Texas...this should be a pretty interesting game if for no other reason to see how the new Longhorn coach, Charlie Strong, can guide his team with a new quarterback since veteran David Ash is gone again with concussion problems. Stepping in for him will be Tyrone Swoopes, who has all of the tools to be successful. The Cougars rolled up 513 yards of total offense last week but that was against Connecticut, not a quality opponent. This should be a tight one but take the Horns for the win.

Arkansas State @ Tennessee...the Red Wolves roll into Rocky Top with their fourth new coach in as many years. Which means a new staff, new system and playing in front of 102,000 win-starved Vol fans. Arky State has a solid QB who rolled up 312 yards last week (219 passing, 93 rushing). But that was against Montana State, and there's a huge difference between them and what the Red Wolves will encounter in Neyland Stadium. Look for the Vols to focus on their run game with Jalen Hurd and Marlin Lane and a completely new offensive line as they take care of business before heading to Norman next week. Vols skin the Wolves at Rocky Top.

Let's check back next week to count up our wins. Until then, have a winning weekend.

MAKE MO MONEY with MARK™

MAKING GREEN IN 2014 !!

If you were smart enough to run with our picks then you made some serious green to kickoff 2014. So now you have some extra cash for those back-to-school expenses or, perhaps, something shiny for that special someone, and maybe for the wife, too.

Starting last Thursday, we've had one of the best launches to a new college season in recent memory. Even some of the games not included in our Great Eight™ were pretty entertaining and enlightening like Bama-WVU with the sideline drama of Saban stalking Kiffin. Such a great start can only mean that 2014 is going to be a season to remember, and a season to Make Mo' Money.

So, how'd we do?

Off to an awesome start, right?

There's an old saying in business, "money talks, bull$hxt walks."

A quick glance at the nifty chart to the right says it all. Of our eight picks, we hit on 7 of 8. Pretty darn good, if we can say so ourselves. So come on, peeps, show us some love.

There's no questions that we missed on the South Carolina loss to Texas A&M. But we weren't alone. Several million $$$ went the other way with that surprise in Columbia. But hey! That's what you gotta love about college football. And if we've learned anything over the last couple of years of doing Woolard's Weekend Winners, you have to take the long view of sports gaming, not just a quick in and out.

Weekend Rewind

Hey, I'm undefeated.

Tennessee looked exceptionally sharp with their passing game, and very quick and aggressive on defense. We were spot on with their receiving group being a difference. But we're not ready to drink a gallon of Big Orange kool aid yet but we like what we saw in the Vols 38-7 win over Utah State. The test comes when they face real competition...like Oklahoma, Georgia, Alabama. Then we'll see how many of those bricks that Butch keeps talking about come flying through his office window (ala Bill Curry at Alabama). Key number to ponder: Tennessee played 21 true freshmen.

If the second half of the Georgia game is any indication of how the butt sniffers will do in future matches, then the future bodes well for the red and black as they pulled out a win over a pretty tenacious Clemson team, 45-21. And before anyone says it, no, Gurley is not the next Hershel Walker. At least not yet, although he logged some pretty stellar numbers. For the record, though, the refs missed a clear block in the back on Gurley's kickoff return that went 100+ yards.

Tell me again why I left Wisconsin.

The Auburn game went pretty much as planned as the Tigers/War Eagles/Plainsmen/Dying Oaks took care of business and poked Bret Bielema's Hogs in the eye with 45-21 win. Nothing more to add here, except we suggest that Bielema wear goggles next time.

The LSU Tigers played like kittens in the first half but turned it up a few notches in the second stanza as Anthony Jennings (Marietta Blue Devils) found his groove and LSU scored 21 unanswered points to pull out a 28-24 win. His back up got a few snaps and looked horrible. So Jennings has the job at least until Less Smiles changes his mind, which is often.

Florida State did everything they could to squander a 17-0 lead, but held on to beat Oklahoma State, 37-31. The cowpokes were 19 point underdogs but apparently they never got that memo. The Noles won ugly but this game should be a cautionary tale if FSU wants to return to Jerry's World in January.

Don't look now but Ole Miss QB Bo Wallace just threw another INT. Just when we thought QB Bo could play consistently, he throws three picks in the first 30 minutes of play versus Boise State. Despite his shortcomings, the Rebels/Black Rebel Bears/Rebel Black Bears turned up the heat in the fourth quarter to put the game away, 35-13.

If you were missing Johnny Manziel then you have to be excited about the new Texas A&M quarterback, Kenny Hill. In his very first start, Kenny Football threw for over 500 yards in his debut as South Carolina gave up a school-record 680 total yards. How would you like to be the Carolina defensive coordinator this week?

We pretty much nailed the Louisville-Miami contest with the Cardinal quarterback, Will Gardner, outplaying the Cane's quarterback as Petrino's crew won, 31-13. While the Louisville offense seemed pretty solid, the defense stepped up in limiting Miami to just 244 total yards and 70 net rushing yards. Al Golden will have a couple of softies the next two weeks (Florida A&M and Arky State) to right the ship before they travel to Nebraska.

Drop us a line to let us know how you fared this weekend. And if you have a suggestion for upcoming games let's hear from you. Have a winning week!

MAKE MO' MONEY WITH MARK