LSU's first three games are against App. State, Troy, and North Texas, and they may not be battle-tested for Tuberville's Tigers. Sometimes scheduling cream puffs can do you in, and this might be a perfect example of not being well-prepared for an important SEC game.
The winner of this contest could very well be the winner of the SEC West.
Notre Dame @ Michigan State
Weis is 1-2 against Michigan State. Considering his alleged remark about how the Irish would never lose again to Michigan State while he was coach, which has been circulating through the Midwest for years, here is Weis' big chance to put up or shut up.
Weis has predicted a nine to 12-win 2008 season for the Irish, and this game is their first big road test. Lose here, and the team may lose some steam and confidence. Win, and Weis looks like Nostradamus.
Dantonio has a 25-23 record overall, and this year he has high expectations for his team. They only have to travel to Indiana, Northwestern, Michigan, and Penn State in conference play, so their season to make a statement in the Big Ten has arrived. It starts with this game against Notre Dame.
Miami @ Texas A&M
These are two teams dying for some improvement and respect. The 'Canes will be coming off a bye after their date with Florida, so chances are they will be a little flat. They most likely will still have some quarterback issues to settle.
Last year, the Aggies lost to the 'Canes and finished 7-6. Dennis Franchione is out, and Mike Sherman is the new coach. Like Miami, they are adjusting to some new faces on the staff and are looking to gain more respectability.
The winner of this game could go into conference play with a lot of swagger. The loser will probably be praying for a lower-tiered bowl.
Wake Forest @ Florida State
After pounding cream puffs Western Carolina and Chattanooga, the 'Noles have to make a big statement to the BCS voters—only one of those FCS games counts as a win. Facing Wake Forest after those two routs isn't very good scheduling, but it is what it is.
If the 'Noles lose this contest, there's not much hope against Va. Tech, Georgia Tech, Clemson, Boston College, and Florida.
Wake Forest, on the other hand, plays Baylor and Mississippi before traveling to Tallahassee, so you have to wonder who will be in better shape to play. I'm betting the Demon Deacons are.
Virginia Tech @ North Carolina
This game could be the most important game of the year for both teams. You heard it here first—the winner of this game wins the Coastal Division. I give the edge to the Heels, as they lost 17-10 last year despite out-gaining the Hokies in total yardage.
Revenge will finally kick in, and the Hokies will be left out of the conference championship. A new day will dawn in the ACC.
Boise State @ Oregon
45 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete