Bleacher Report - Articles by Trent Lane

Trent's Touchdown - Six Games to Watch in Week 12

Trent Lane — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:28:00 -0500

With births to conference championship games and outright claims to the top spots in other conferences on the line, Week 12 looks like a winner. So, let’s skip the preamble and get right to the games.

1) No. 10 Ohio State at Michigan —12:00 on ABC

While this one looks like a cakewalk for Ohio State, this one gives me pause. As much as I hate it when people say that records don’t matter in rivalry games, this one transcends the records. Both have something to play for, just one is more important than the other.

Ohio State is playing for the outright championship of the Big Ten and, more importantly, respect. Yes, they are going to the Rose Bowl, but no one thinks they can beat any Pac-10 team. They are a team being carried by their defense. Every Buckeye fan out there, while not admitting it, just hopes that Terrelle Pryor doesn’t do anything stupid when he has his hands on the ball. I mean, look at the series they played in the OT win against Iowa, three straight dives into the heart of the line. Yes, Tressel really trusts Pryor.

Michigan is playing to get out of the cellar of the Big Ten and, most probably, for Rich Rodriguez’s job. After starting 4-0, they have gotten smacked around by all comers, wining only one of their last seven games. I like Tate Forcier and I like the enthusiasm of the team, but Michigan still makes dumb mistakes. I think Rodriguez really needs to take the training wheel’s off here and just let Forcier air it out. They have nothing to lose.

Michigan has played well at home all year, so they can keep it close. I just think the Ohio State defense is too good for Michigan. Ohio State wins this one, while I get deluged with “Ohio State is for real” stories before they douse their drawers against Oregon in the Rose Bowl.

2) No. 11 Oregon at Arizona —8:00 on ABC

Speaking of Oregon, they get to take one more step to securing the Pac-10. Personally, I like Stanford, but the Duchess like Oregon. As any married man knows, the secret to a successful marriage is to always listen to your wife.

Anyhow, the Oregon offense is pretty simple to figure out. It’s run, run, run, and then beat you with the play action pass. It’s just a question of stopping it. I don’t know why they bothered to reinstate LeGarrette Blount, since LaMichael James is one of the better running backs in the nation. Look for the Ducks to keep doing what they do.

Arizona is in a very good spot. They win out and they go to the Rose Bowl. However, they need to stay consistent on offense, something they couldn’t do against Cal last week. The problem is there is a big question mark at running back, as Nic Grigsby has a bit of a shoulder problem.

While Arizona is undefeated at home, they really haven’t had any quality wins (minus Stanford). Oregon knows how to get up for the big games and they know just how important this one is. I think they go into Arizona and win it, but Arizona sticks around for most of the game.

3) No. 25 California at No. 17 Stanford —7:30 on Versus

Talk about two teams on two different sides of the spectrum. Cal has absolutely no quality wins, while Stanford slapped around USC and Oregon in back to back weeks. God I love Stanford right now.

The blue-collar Stanford Cardinals are showing they are not a team to be taken lightly. They also know how to go for the kill when they have the shot, going for a two-point conversion up 27 in the fourth quarter against USC. Andrew Luck keeps plugging along, knowing the offense doesn’t rest on his shoulders. All he needs to do is get the ball to Toby Gerhart and he is all set. They have a competent defense that doesn’t get lit up, so they are all good.

Cal is one team I don’t understand. They can’t beat a good team, yet they keep getting into the top 25. Their best player is on the sideline after nearly killing himself trying to get into the end zone. We’ll be lucky if we Jahvid Best before the opening game next year. Shane Vereen is an admirable back up, but he isn’t Best. Pardon the pun, but Best is Cal’s best shot at winning.

Stanford wins this one, by doing what they always do. I don’t even think Cal keeps it close, but it’s worth watching just to see Stanford dismantle another team and keep their hopes of a Pac-10 Championship alive.

4) Virginia at No. 23 Clemson —3:30 on ABC

I’ll admit it; this is pure and utter homerism (even if I’ve never been to South Carolina or know anyone who has been there). This is the game every Clemson fan has been waiting for since 1991. Well, technically, that would be in 2 weeks against Georgia Tech, but they need to beat Virginia first.

Let’s forget about the Virginia offense completely. They can’t move the ball against a high school team, and Clemson is one of the better defenses in the country, leading the nation in interceptions. This game hinges on the ability of C.J. Spiller making plays and giving Kyle Parker piece of mind that the game isn’t on his shoulders. Throw in a big play by Jacoby Ford and you pretty much have yourself a victory.

It’ll be fun to watch for about two and a half quarters, which is usually where Clemson decides they’ve had enough and decide to just win it and be done with it.

5) No. 8 LSU at Mississippi —3:30 on CBS

Remember when everyone (including me) was saying how Jevan Sneed was for real? That was 14 interceptions ago. However, out of the limelight, Ole Miss has been able to put together a fairly good record.

If I was a LSU fan, I wouldn’t be sure if I was more scared of Jefferson or Lee starting at quarterback. Listen, I could go into some spiel about how LSU needs to work the run, but it’s all a lie. This game will come down to the LSU defense stopping Dexter McCluster. If they do that, they put the game in Sneed’s hands and as scary as that sounded at the beginning of the season, it would make me downright giddy now.

LSU wins this, but the game is ugly in the fact that it turns into a defensive struggle. LSU just needs to pray that if Lee does start, that he doesn’t make too many mistakes.

6) Harvard at Yale —12:00 on Versus

Come on people, this is The Game. The Game! Basically, it’s an excuse for the alumni of two Ivy League schools to drink all weekend, but that’s a whole different story.

Extra Point

7) Let me throw in my two cents about the Mark Mangino debacle at Kansas. I want to preface this by saying that we don’t know all the evidence and I don’t want to come off like an idiot like Obama and the whole Gates incident. Also, I’ve always liked Kansas because of their underdog status.

That being said, if this is true, this is the weirdest thing I’ve heard in a while—but not completely shocking. With the amount of control coaches have over players in college football, something like this was bound to happen. If this was one or two players, you can write it off as sour grapes, but this is a whole host of players with similar stories.

This doesn’t just affect Mangino though. This will affect his assistant coaches and coordinators, not to mention the legacy of Bill Snyder at Kansas State. There is a fine line between hard-nosed disciplinarian and out of control behavior. No matter the outcome, Mangino is toxic after this. No team is going to touch him. If he did cross the line, let’s hope he learned his lesson.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week 11

Trent Lane — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:39:00 -0500

I think I just realized last weekend that we are getting to the end of the season. This has been one wacky season so far, and it’s only going to get wackier.

There are three teams right now vying for the rights to upset the BCS apple cart, and it brings nothing but enjoyment for those of us who love college football, but more on that later.

Now, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 25 West Virginia at No. 5 Cincinnati: 8:00 on ESPN2 (Friday)

The devil is getting fitted for ice skates, because Cincinnati is in the top spot of this week’s Touchdown. Cincinnati is looking to make a case for the BCS National Championship Game, but they need to get out to the Big East unscathed. The first of two big tests is against WVU.

Cincy has the problem that Oklahoma fans wish they had: a backup quarterback just as good as the starter. After gunslinger Tony Pike went down with injury, Zach Collaros stepped in, and the Cincy offense didn’t miss a step. They are one of the most prolific offenses in the country and run a no huddle, spread offense.

As of now, Collaros is getting the start, but Pike should see some time, as he is still not 100 percent.

On the other side of the ball, WVU isn’t as lucky with the injuries. Both superstar running back Noel Devine and quarterback Jarrett Brown went down with injuries in last week’s game, and it’s still questionable what role, if any, both will play.

WVU needs a good defensive effort against the high-powered Cincy offense. Unfortunately, the WVU pass defense is a little sketchy (that’s a nice way of saying they’ll get lit up like a Christmas tree).

Cincy won’t miss a beat and will pull away with this one. They have a knack for keeping games closer than they should be, so expect WVU to hang around for a while.

2) No. 10 Iowa at No. 11 Ohio State: 3:30 on ABC

You know, if Ricky Stanzi hadn’t gotten injured and if Iowa had beaten Northwestern, this game would have been a lot more interesting. Anyway, welcome to the Big Ten Championship Game.

Iowa had been playing with fire all season, needing to come back in all but one game this season. However, they were able to toughen up on defense, get good plays on special teams, and lean heavily on Stanzi at critical times and pull out wins.

However, with Stanzi out, the load falls on freshman James Vandenberg. After seeing him in the second half of the Northwestern game, he looked more like Landry Jones than Zach Collaros. Not good if you are an Iowa fan.

Ohio State, on the other hand, seems to have found its rhythm. Offensively, they have gotten more consistent play out of Terrelle Pryor, which the Buckeyes need to win. However, this team will win or lose based on the defense. Everyone knows that the Buckeye offense isn’t going to blow the doors off anyone, so the defense is going to shoulder the load.

If Stanzi were in, even if they lost to Northwestern, I would have picked Iowa. Unfortunately, Vandenberg is an unknown quantity facing a very good Ohio State defense. Iowa goes down early but won’t be able to pull off the comeback.

3) No. 16 Utah at No. 4 TCU: 7:30 on CBS College Sports Network

You want to see the first non-BCS conference team to reach the National Championship Game, scour your TV Guide for the listing on this one. However, let’s not give this one to TCU just yet.

TCU has actually beaten some relatively good opponents, winning road games against Clemson, Air Force, and BYU. Now they get to beat an untested Utah team who has only lost to Oregon.

TCU has a vaunted running game, in which any number of players can get their hands on the ball and make an opposing defense look foolish. However, they are a well-balanced offense that can hurt you through the air when needed.

Utah, conversely, has been having troubles of late moving the ball and even switched up quarterbacks to help things along. Look for running back Eddie Wide to carry the load for the Utes, trying to establish a running game to take the pressure off the quarterback.

I think TCU takes this one, and more and more people start whispering about this BCS buster.

4) Stanford at No. 9 USC: 3:30 on Fox Sports

Part of me wants to watch this game just so I can try to figure out how the hell Stanford beat a surging Oregon team last week. As for USC, Pete Carroll can pull a happier version of Michael Corleone's quote, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.”

If last week was any indication, USC is going to have issues with Stanford. USC barely put away a struggling Arizona State team and were lucky to get the win.

I think we all know where the struggles originate. I hate to keep picking on Matt Barkley, but he is having issues running an offense that has one of the best running backs in the Pac-10 and the best wide receiver in the Pac-10. The defense is this team’s saving grace, and they have issues containing good offenses.

Stanford has one of the best offenses in the Pac-10. Andrew Luck is everything that Carroll hoped Barkley would be when he decided to start a freshman at quarterback. He brings an enthusiasm and leadership to the Stanford offense. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have the Pac-10’s best running back helping you out. Toby Gerhart absolutely embarrassed the Oregon defense last week.

USC ends their home winning streak against the team they last lost to at home. Stanford will win and finally knock USC out of the Pac-10 race. Of course, it’s USC, so talent alone will keep the game close.

5) No. 1 Florida at South Carolina: 3:30 on CBS

If you are a degenerate gambler, you look at the line on this one (Florida +18) and say, “Let’s rock and roll.” I mean, Florida is the No. 1 team in the country, and South Carolina is fading fast. But let’s not notch a win for Florida just yet.

Let’s be straight about one thing: Florida has been having issues on the offensive side of the ball. This is not the same Florida team from last year that could move the ball at will, and Tim Tebow has been looking decidedly human lately. The reasons they keep winning are because they don’t make too many mistakes on offense and they have a very good defense. That should be enough to get them through most games.

It should be enough to get them through this game as well. As much as I moderately like Stephen Garcia, I don’t think he can carry his team past the Florida defense. Florida will win, but South Carolina has a knack for keeping it close.

6) Notre Dame at No. 12 Pittsburgh: 8:00 on ABC

I just want to watch this just to see when the defense of Notre Dame will mess up, costing them the game. I think it’ll happen sometime in the early fourth quarter, but that’s really just wishful thinking.

Extra Point

What are the chances of seeing Cincinnati, TCU, or Boise State (if they all stay undefeated) in the National Championship Game? This isn’t a new twist on my rant a few weeks ago about a playoff system. I’m just really curious about the possibilities.

First, you would need two of the top three to lose. Well, we know for a fact that Alabama or Florida will have one loss. There is a possibility that it could happen, but is that enough?

Let’s say for the sake of argument that Alabama loses a close game on the road to Auburn but then beats up on Florida in the SEC Championship Game. Does that guarantee that one of the undefeated teams takes the place of Alabama?

Do the voters and computers give Cincy, TCU, and Boise State credit for going undefeated, even though their schedules were not as tough as that of Alabama? Even if one of them does get to the No. 2 spot, which one is it? They all have their arguments to make.

I think clearly it would be Cincy, which would have quality wins over WVU at home and Pitt on the road. Plus, they are in a BCS conference (seriously, the Big East is a BCS conference).

I think that the BCS is just hoping for all three teams to lose to make it simple. I mean, Cincy could lose to Pitt and/or WVU. TCU could lose to Utah. The Boise State team bus could get struck by lightning. All are possibilities.

Then again, it wouldn’t be a college football season without some controversy.

Trent's Field Goal: Three Games to Watch in Week 10

Trent Lane — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:05:00 -0500

While it looks like the Pac-10 was decided last week, the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC all have games that will heavily impact their conference outcomes.

Just so you know, I’m refusing to put Iowa on this week’s list. They will keep it close, just enough to draw you in, before they let hellfire rain down on Northwestern to make the end nowhere near as exciting as the beginning.

As an aside, due to graduate school application time, this week’s Touchdown gets downgraded to a Field Goal. Hey, we can’t get six every time.

1) No. 9 LSU at No. 3 Alabama—3:30 on CBS

If you’re not excited about this game, you need to check yourself into the morgue, because your heart has stopped beating. This top-10 showdown will pretty much decide the winner of the SEC West. Not only that, it has national championship implications, as well.

While everyone will tell you that the defense is the key here, I’m going to go a different route. This game hinges on the running games of both teams.

In my mind, Mark Ingram is the best running back in the country. The kid is a force to be reckoned with and has run past, over, and through all comers. If he can gain positive yards against the LSU defense, that takes pressure off Greg McElroy so he can do his thing and pass the ball down the field.

For LSU, Charles Scott needs to have a good game. Jordan Jefferson may be getting better with each game, but this isn’t the Tulane defense he’s facing. Scott needs to be able to establish a consistent running attack, which will allow Jefferson to use play action and his natural scrambling ability to attack the Alabama defense.

That all said, these are two of the best defenses in the nation. It’s a distinct possibility that both Scott and Ingram will have tough games. The question you have to ask yourself then is, which quarterback do you trust to exploit any possible mistake made by the opposing defense, Jefferson or McElroy?

Yeah, that’s what I thought. That is why I’m picking Alabama to win, but it’ll be close and low-scoring.

2) No. 16 Ohio State at No. 11 Penn State—3:30 on ABC

If you had told me at the beginning of the season that this game would decide the Big Ten, I would have agreed wholeheartedly. Too bad Iowa controls what happens in the Big Ten. These two could be playing for No. 2.

When you really look at Ohio State, you start to understand their problems (even if the pollsters don’t). They are always going to have the great defense, which will keep them in every game. The problem is their whole offense revolves around the quarterback.

That’s not a bad thing if you have a good quarterback. Too bad Ohio State has Terrelle Pryor. If you contain Pryor and don’t over-pursue, you can win.

Penn State, on the other hand, has a more balanced attack led by Daryll Clark. Clark is the type of quarterback Pryor wishes he was. He leaves the running to Evan Royster, one of the better running backs in the Big Ten.

Like Ohio State, they have a very good defense that keeps them in most games and can bail out the offense when needed. Clark and the offense just don’t need it as much as Ohio State.

That, coupled with the fact that the game is at Penn State, is the reason the Nittany Lions win this game. It’ll stay close because of the two good defenses, but Clark will lead a drive late to seal the deal.

3) Florida State at Clemson—7:45 on ESPN

With no Tommy Bowden, this isn’t the annual Bowden Bowl anymore, but there are still plenty of reasons to be excited about this ACC matchup. While FSU would need some help, Clemson is in the driver’s seat on the road to the ACC Championship Game.

In past years, when Clemson has been in this situation, they always found ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. However, it seems to be a whole new atmosphere in Clemson, where anything is possible. Who knew a head coach and offensive coordinator coming to blows would spark a team to a string of victories?

I’m going to write the most obvious statement in the history of my columns and say that this game depends on what C.J. Spiller does. He needs to be the triple threat that he is more than capable of being. While I said earlier that Ingram is the best running back in the country, Spiller is the best all-around player in the country.

Clemson will need consistent play out of the freshman quarterback, Kyle Parker. He needs to have a higher completion percentage than his season average and needs to keep possession of the ball.

FSU has been a weird team all year. Let’s look at it: They lose a close one to Miami, go down to the wire against Jacksonville State, and then blow the doors off of BYU before losing three straight. However, they are on a two-game conference win streak but only won both games by three points each.

FSU’s only shot at winning this is to defensively key on Spiller. They need to make sure they know where Spiller is at all times and swarm to him. They need to let Parker beat them with his arm. Unfortunately, Jacoby Ford will blow by one-on-one coverage, and Parker can hit him with the deep ball.

If Spiller is contained, it’ll stay close, but Clemson will pull it out in the end.

Trent's Touchdown: Six College Football Games to Watch in Week Nine

Trent Lane — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:03:00 -0400

Well, I’m rested and back from Puerto Rico and ready to run down this week’s games.

Thankfully the Duchess was tired after our trip to Old San Juan, so I got to watch the ends of the Alabama-Tennessee and Miami-Clemson games.

Even when I go away, the games stay crazy. Hopefully, it’ll be just as exciting this weekend.

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 5 USC at No. 10 Oregon—8:00 on ABC

Unless something weird happens (which is a distinct possibility), this game will decide the Pac-10 champion. If you told me after week one that this game would be this big, I would tell you that maybe it’s time to stop sniffing glue.

Oregon has been completely locked in since the infamous Boise State game. Jeremiah Masoli leads the high-powered Oregon offense and is suffering no ill effects of the knee injury that sidelined him two weeks ago. The USC defense, which has struggled as of late, will have issues trying to contain Masoli.

On the other side, USC has looked a little shaky all season, with the loss to Washington and the narrow victory against Notre Dame. Freshman QB Matt Barkley makes dumb mistakes, which is going to cause headaches against a ball-hawking Oregon defense. Expect to see USC try to establish the run to try to ease Barkley into the game.

I cannot, in good conscience, pick USC in this one. All signs point to an Oregon win. Oregon is good on both sides of the ball, and USC can go long stretches without looking like a patented USC team. I think the home crowd leads Oregon to victory, but the USC defense finally steps up and makes it close.

2) No. 3 Texas at No. 14 Oklahoma State—8:00 on ABC

I’m not sure if this is going to be one of those Texas games where they blow the doors off the opponent or where they struggle before sealing the deal late and you chastise yourself for ever worrying about the outcome.

I like Texas. They are a flawed team, but no one seems to know how to exploit it. The flaw is really Colt McCoy. God love the kid, but he can get lazy and unfocused at times. That interception near the end against Oklahoma was horrible. The sad thing was that I saw it coming from a mile away (as did the DB). Thankfully for him, he has a great defense saving his hide.

Don’t laugh at this next statement, but Oklahoma State is a better team without Dez Bryant. I said don’t laugh! His suspension forces Zac Robinson to step up and make plays without his binky. He now has to spread the ball around, making it tough for defenses to key in on any one receiver. Of course, it makes it easier for defenses to stop the run, but that’s not the point.

I think Texas lets the game stay interesting for a little bit but then kicks it into that other gear and takes Oklahoma State behind the woodshed.

3) No. 1 Florida vs. Georgia (in Jacksonville)—3:30 on CBS

The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party is back for this year’s edition. Yet another reason for people to take a week off and get drunk. Like you need an excuse.

Florida has been having some trouble of late, ever since Tim Tebow came back from the concussion. His passing efficiency has gone down while his interceptions have gone up. If it hadn’t been for Jeff Demps and timely plays by the defense, they might be in trouble.

Georgia, on the other hand, has floundered against good teams. While Joe Cox is a good game manager, he isn’t Matt Stafford, and that is what they need. They are coming off a bye week that was preceded by a win against a JV team (Vandy). Plus, the defense for Georgia is horrible, and that’s an understatement. This may be what Tebow needs to get back on track.

I think Florida needs a loss to get them back into the swing of things, much like last year. However, this isn’t the game they lose. It will stay close if Tebow decides to be the quarterback he’s been the last few weeks, instead of the one of the last few years.

4) No. 19 Miami at Wake Forest—3:30 on ABC

Give me one second to gloat. Both of these teams lost to Clemson. That puts a smile on my face. While both teams need a lot of help to reach the ACC Championship Game, I think this one could be interesting.

Miami will be without four players for this game, most importantly leading rusher Javarris James. The fate of the Miami offense now rests on the unsteady shoulders of Jacory Harris. I’m not saying Harris is bad; I just don’t want to have to trust him. The one thing Miami has going for them right now is the defense, and that’s not a good thing.

Wake Forest has lost two straight, both on the road against Clemson and Navy. The reason for the two losses is solely because Riley Skinner couldn’t get it done. If you have a pass-oriented offense, you sort of need your quarterback to produce. Skinner needs to break out to give Wake a chance.

I think Skinner does break out of the rut and keeps Wake Forest close, but Miami pulls it out in the end.

5) No. 22 South Carolina at Tennessee—7:45 on ESPN

While this game may not be pretty, it should be close. Both teams are coming off close games, with SC barely getting by Vandy at home and Tennessee’s devastating loss to Alabama (two blocked field goals!).

Tennessee actually has a very competent offense, led by the surprising Jonathan Crompton. In years past, I would have made a joke about Crompton’s abilities, but he is actually doing quite well this year. The team is balanced out by a very good defense that is led by one of the best safeties in the country, Eric Berry.

South Carolina hasn’t been flashy, but they’ve been winning, and that’s the important thing. Stephen Garcia, like his Tennessee counterpart, is also quite competent at running the SC offense. He won’t wow you, but he won’t kill you either. They also have one of the best pass defenses in the league, which will be more than willing to frustrate Crompton.

South Carolina seems to have problems on the road, and I think those problems will continue this week. Tennessee won’t have to worry about blocked field goals and pulls out a close one.

6) No. 8 Cincinnati at Syracuse—12:00 on ESPNU

Come on; watch the undefeated team that no one is talking about. They could easily backdoor their way into the National Championship Game, so jump on the bandwagon now.

Extra Point

7) Seven. Count them up. There are seven undefeated teams out there right now, each one with a rightful claim that if they can win out they deserve to be in the National Championship Game.

Now, you, me, and Dupree all know that if everyone wins out, the winner of the SEC Championship Game and Texas will be playing in that game. But is it right?

Minus the Big East apple polishers, I think we can all agree that a one-loss Alabama team is better than an undefeated Cincinnati team (and I like Cincinnati!). However, doesn’t Cincinnati deserve to be in the discussion? Do they get sidelined because of the perceived weakness of the Big East?

For the sake of argument, let’s say we end the season with the undefeated teams of Texas, Alabama, Iowa, and Cincinnati. Why do we have to sideline Iowa and Cincinnati? Are they being dismissed not because of their conference, but because of who they are?

We always seem to reward one-loss teams like USC but are more than willing to discount undefeated teams like Iowa and Cincinnati. How does USC get ranked higher than three undefeated teams, one of them being in a BCS conference? This is the same USC team that doused their drawers against a Washington team that was winless last year.

Here’s the thing: If we end up with multiple undefeated teams, the dreaded P word is going to start popping up again. However, without a playoff, there is no clear way to decide which team is more deserving than others. Hell, most of the computer polls have Iowa as the No. 1 team in the country.

The BCS is good at one thing: creating controversy. I think it would be almost fairer to have all the coaches of the teams with an argument to have a big rock, paper, scissors tournament to see which two teams play in the National Championship Game.

Of course, Pete Carroll looks like the kind of guy who thinks nothing beats rock, but that’s a whole other discussion.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games To Watch in Week Seven

Trent Lane — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:36:00 -0400

The strangest thing about last weekend’s games was the lack of a major upset. Yet, we did get a nice little shake-up in the polls—but more on that later.

This week's slate of games features at least one game all times that looks fun to watch, unlike last week’s snooze-fest. They can’t all be winners.

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 20 Oklahoma vs. No. 3 Texas (in Dallas)—12:00 on ABC

The one game everyone has been waiting to watch since both Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy decided to come back for another year. Last year, on my honeymoon, I won some nice scratch betting on Texas, but this year I’m not in a place with legalized sports gambling, nor do I have that much confidence in Texas.

Last year, Texas was a flawed team but had big-play capability when it was needed. The problem this year is the Longhorns almost seem to want to win with a degree of difficulty. It’s almost like McCoy needs a reason to get into that game.

Texas-Colorado should have been a cakewalk, but it drew me in because it was so close. McCoy didn’t seem to get into the game until he realized his team was trailing, and then he decided to light it up. You know, that’s fine against Colorado or Texas Tech, but you can’t pull that crap against Oklahoma.

As much as I don’t like Oklahoma, I have to say it is a scary good team that lost two road games against two underrated teams. While Bradford is still coming back from injury, the Sooners will need to rely on their defense, one of the best in the country. If McCoy gets off to another slow start, Oklahoma will make him pay.

The problem that Oklahoma has is that Mack Brown will have whipped his team up into a frenzy by the time this one starts. Texas won’t start slow, and the 'Horns will have their eyes firmly set on their opponent. Texas wins, but as always, it’s entertaining and close.

2) No. 6 USC at No. 25 Notre Dame—3:30 on NBC

I may have made a joke last week about Notre Dame vs. the Bye week, but this game has real potential. This is probably the first time I’ve been truly excited about this rivalry since the Brady Quinn-Matt Leinart duel in which Reggie Bush pushed Leinart into the end zone at the end to win it for USC.

Notre Dame has been weird this year. I mean, they are 4-1, but they could easily be 5-0 or 1-4, as they’ve shown signs of either being a top-flight program or last year's putrid mess...all in the same game.

Jimmy Clausen is finally showing signs of why he was a highly-ranked prospect coming out of high school. The problem, as always, is the defense. While the unit will get the lucky pick in key places, it is not exactly consistent.

As for USC, the stumble against Washington is the only blemish on the team's record (which includes the thriller in Columbus). The Trojan defense is one of the best in the nation, and a team needs to take its shots when it has the chance.

What I’m going to say here is going to make many USC fans scream, if only for the fact that they know I’m right: USC's Achilles’ heel is its offense.

Don’t get me wrong—I think Damian Williams is one of the best receivers in the country, and Joe McKnight is scary when he’s carrying the ball.

But I don’t trust Matt Barkley, I just don’t. He starts off too slow, he makes freshman mistakes, and he’s too cookie cutter for me.

In a shocker, Notre Dame wins this game. They win it like they always do, by falling ass-backwards into a game-clinching interception during a USC drive that could give the Trojans the victory.

3) No. 4 Virginia Tech at No. 19 Georgia Tech—6:00 on ESPN2

Well, this is the last hurdle between Virginia Tech and the Orange Bowl, because no other team in the ACC has the ability to challenge Virginia Tech in the slightest way. I’ve really come around on VT.

Georgia Tech was a lot of people’s trendy pick to end VT’s dominance of the Coastal Division, with good reason. The triple option offense that turned people’s heads last year was back and still had the run threat of Jonathan Dwyer. However, as Clemson and Miami proved, if you can take away the run, the offense sputters with Josh Nesbitt at the helm.

If there is any defense that can stifle the GT running game, it is VT. The VT defense is fast and nasty. Once the ball is in the offense’s hands, VT and Tyrod Taylor know how to find the end zone. The GT defense won’t be able to keep up with Taylor or the Hokie running game.

Georgia Tech isn’t the type of team to give up, so the Jackets won’t pack it in while VT is kicking its teeth down their throats. I expect this one to be well in hand soon after halftime.

4) No. 22 South Carolina at No. 2 Alabama—7:45 on ESPN

Everything tells me this is going to be a blowout. Everything I’ve seen from both of these teams tells me that Alabama should have this won by the time the coin flip ends.

However, if watching college football all these years has taught me anything, it’s that anything can happen in the wacky SEC.

The defenses for both Alabama and South Carolina are disgustingly good. They both made Jevan Snead look unfit to play QB for a Pop Warner team. They both capitalize on mistakes and can stop both the run and pass. This game won’t come down to the defenses.

It comes down to the offenses. Greg McElroy is a better game manager for Alabama. Plus, to be honest, Mark Ingram is a freak of nature at running back. I think the only defense that has a chance of stopping him would be the Florida defense. Alabama will use him to pound it down the throats of the SC defense and then open it up for the play action pass.

South Carolina will keep it close for a time, but in the end, Alabama wins and makes it look a lot easier than it actually was.

I will say this now: I think Alabama is the only team that can go undefeated.

5) Texas Tech at No. 15 Nebraska—3:30 on ABC

Even a year later, I still have a soft spot for the magical run by Texas Tech—you know, before the wheels came flying off against Oklahoma and Ole Miss. This game is definitely going to be interesting.

The main problem Nebraska will face on Saturday is moving the ball. The Cornhuskers need to get a consistent and methodical performance from their offense. It will keep the high-powered Tech offense off the field, gain confidence for Zac Lee, and will let Nebraska set the tempo of the game. Nebraska has the best defense in the Big 12, so expect it to actually stop the Tech offense every once in a while.

However, that is easier said than done, as Tech is near the best in the country in most every team offensive category. It looks as if Steven Sheffield will start at QB as Taylor Potts may be unavailable due to a concussion. Don’t worry, Tech fans; Sheffield proved last week that he can throw it all over the field just like Potts.

To win, Nebraska is going to need to shut down the Tech offense more times than I think is possible. Nebraska can’t let this thing become a shootout, because you can’t out-duel the Red Raiders. Texas Tech goes into Lincoln and pulls out the victory, but it's close.

6) UAB at Mississippi—7:00 on ESPN360

I put the over/under on the number of interceptions thrown by Jevan Snead in this game at three, while Mel Kiper decides that maybe he doesn’t need video of Snead for NFL draft coverage this year.

7) Extra Point

If I wanted to, every week I could make the extra point a scathing review of the horrible poll system. However, I try to minimize it to a few times a year. Welcome to the first installment of the year.

Now, I like Alabama, I truly do. I think the Tide are a better team than Texas. However, since Texas has been ranked ahead of Alabama all year and since both teams won on Saturday, shouldn’t that mean the status quo is in effect? Have we gone back to the days when teams have to get style points to wow the pollsters?

Listen, I was as shocked as everyone that Texas had issues with Colorado, but they still won the game. Did Texas need to utterly humiliate Colorado to stay at No. 2? How many points would the Longhorns have had to win by to keep their position in the polls?

Do we start using the point spread as a barometer? Seriously, that’s only relevant to degenerate gamblers as it is a byproduct of the gambling community.

Are we going to hit a point where Texas is blowing out Baylor, but Mack Brown keeps McCoy out there because the pollsters don’t feel that’s enough? When are pollsters going to wake up and realize that the win is the most important thing, not how you got there or in what style you did it?

That all said, Alabama definitely belongs at No. 2. Roll Tide!

As a programming note, there will be no Touchdown next week. I’ll be in Puerto Rico for a wedding.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Six

Trent Lane — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:38:00 -0400

Unlike past weeks, there were no major upsets last weekend. Color me shocked, as I figured Boise State would be residing in the number 4 spot right about now. Of course, we come into a weekend that would have looked great around Week 2, but seems to have lost some of its luster now. More on this later. Now, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 1 Florida at No. 4 LSU – 8:00 on CBS

You know, two weeks ago I would have figured this would be a laugher, complete with Les Miles curling up in the fetal position at midfield for every Florida fans enjoyment. Oh the changes we’ve seen in those two weeks.

Most important was the shot to the head that Tim Tebow took in the Kentucky game, leaving him questionable for this game. This means that John Brantley and his college career of 58 pass attempts might get to lead the defending National Champions into one of the harshest opposing stadiums in college football.

I think there is something else important at play here. With all the upsets of Week 4, LSU catapulted to No. 4 in the rankings and everyone promptly dismissed them (myself included). We figured the pretenders would be vanquished by Georgia and all would be right with the world (minus Boise State moving to the No. 4 spot). However, LSU proved themselves worthy of the spot, by beating Georgia.

Even if Tebow starts, he won’t be at 100 percent, and probably won’t be carrying the ball as much. With that, this game comes down to the team that can stop the run. Both teams have very good defenses, yet LSU relies on its defense to keep games close for its anemic offense.

Florida only needs a few chances and its run game can win this for them. I think they beat LSU, but it’s going to be a lot closer than anyone will be comfortable with.

2) No. 3 Alabama at No. 20 Mississippi – 3:30 on CBS

The two teams are going in two opposite directions. Alabama is the best team not from Florida or Texas and has been beating every opponent silly. Ole Miss, on the other hand, lost to South Carolina and had issues against Vanderbilt. Bama is not the team you want to face when you are having issues.

Over the last two games, we’ve learned why Mack Brown picked Colt McCoy over Jevan Snead. Against South Carolina, Snead couldn’t complete a pass. Against Vandy, he completed them, just to the other team.

Ole Miss is a dangerous team because they have one of the best defenses in the nation. If the offense starts to click again, you better watch out.

Alabama just seems like a team willing to crush everyone in its path. They can beat you by running and passing the ball. The defense is pure Saban, nasty and smart. Teams can’t sit back and wait for the Alabama defense to make a mistake.

If Snead gets back on track, this game could be very good. If his struggles continue, it’ll be a long game for Ole Miss. Unfortunately for Ole Miss fans, you can’t work out your problems against a team like Alabama. Alabama wins it. Roll Tide!

3) Michigan at No. 12 Iowa – 8:05 on ABC

Just when I jump on the Michigan bandwagon, they lose. Granted, I pretty much predicted they would lose, but that’s not the point.

You know what this means? It means that if you are a LSU fan, you should be making hotel reservations in Pasadena.

This game really is a toss-up. Michigan has a really good, but young team. Nearly every game has been close, which either means they have trouble putting away teams or really are a middle of the road team making the best with what they have. Forcier is an extremely talented QB who has a great future in front of him.

Iowa needs to keep doing what it has been doing, which is play strong defense and serviceable offense. Stanzi needs to keep the ball out of the hands of the Michigan secondary. While a team like Arkansas State can’t capitalize on those mistakes, Michigan can.

In a close game, the Iowa home field crowd, experience, and coaching will make this a win for the Hawkeyes.

4) No. 13 Oregon at UCLA – 3:30 on ABC

I asked the Duchess which game I should put at number four and she said “Ducks”, so here we go. Actually, it’s a pretty good pick for someone’s whose college football knowledge comes exclusively from reading the Touchdown.

After Oregon’s disastrous opening game that would have sent lesser teams into a tail spin, they’ve ripped off four straight victories and are suddenly the team to beat in the Pac 10. The only question for this game is if Jeremiah Masoli will be able to play, after his knee injury against the practice squad …. er, I mean, Washington State.

UCLA has been impressive so far this season, but is hoping to bounce back after last week's loss to Stanford. The Bruins are going to need all hands on deck, so they better be praying to whatever deity to get back safety Rahim Moore, who suffered a concussion last week. He will help immensely in trying to slow down the Oregon passing attack.

However, with UCLA’s inability to move the ball through the air, it makes them pretty one dimensional. Like most good teams, Oregon can stop one dimensional teams. Oregon wins it and showcases why they are the best in the Pac 10.

5) Boston College at No. 5 Virginia Tech – 12:00 on ESPN360

I didn’t expect to be writing about this game, so it either means there is a lack of good games this week, or BC is a little surprising.

Seriously, the highlight of my day normally involves me giving crap to some BC fan. It’s not hard when you work in Boston.

Anyway, after the loss to Clemson, BC has been able to win consecutive conference games and the Eagles seem to have found some offensive rhythm. Competent QB play was the only thing holding them back from being a force to be reckoned with. If you add that in with the solid running game, BC should have no issues with moving the ball.

Virginia Tech, as always, is good on both sides of the ball. I have to say I’m most surprised at the offense, with Tyrod Taylor actually showing the ability to move the ball through the air. I just don’t understand this team. They beat up on Miami, but have issues putting away Duke.

I think the same thing happens here. BC sticks around for the whole game, but VT finally puts them away late to win it.

6) Notre Dame vs. the Bye Week

As per usual, ND makes some critical errors and bone head plays, but somehow pulls this one out in the end.

Extra Point

7) Once again, we visit one of my least favorite weeks in the college football season. It’s the “we’ll give you one or two interesting games, but the rest are crap” week. Unfortunately, the Duchess can spot these weekends and it becomes a shopping weekend.

The problem is that other then the LSU/Florida tilt, there is no real game I want to watch. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll watch what’s on and probably enjoy myself, but there isn’t any game that gets me excited. A cursory glance at next week and there are about four games I’m excited about.

I do admit that not every weekend can have classic matchups. However, when you sandwich this in between Week 5 (with the Georgia/LSU, Miami/Oklahoma, and USC/Cal games) and Week 7 (RED RIVER SHOOTOUT), it gets tough to get excited about Oregon and UCLA.

Don’t worry though, I will.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Five

Trent Lane — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:16:00 -0400

Another week, another handful of upsets and shake-ups in the polls.

If I were a team in the top 10 and facing a marshmallow opponent, I would be very scared (I’m looking at you, Cincinnati).

While the football fan in me loves this, there are drawbacks, but more on this later.

Now, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 8 Oklahoma at No. 17 Miami: 8:00 on ABC

When the season started, I thought this game might be slightly interesting, with an up-and-coming Miami team facing a massively overrated Oklahoma team. Of course, all that was before the Sam Bradford injury, Oklahoma’s loss to BYU, and Miami running roughshod over the ACC also-rans before losing to Virginia Tech.

While Oklahoma fans are wetting themselves over blowout wins against powerhouses Tulsa and Idaho State, I don’t think you should start looking forward to the Red River Shootout in two weeks. I’ll say what I said a couple of weeks ago: Miami has the ability to key in on what you do best and eliminate it.

The problem last week is that as much as I don’t like Virginia Tech, they are pretty well balanced offensively and can survive by letting their defense and special teams win games for them. What Miami needs to do is key on Oklahoma’s running game and put the game in the hands of the QB.

The problem OU has is at the QB position. Landry Jones hasn’t really faced any tough competition. I think my old high school team would have put up a better fight than Idaho State. Can the freshman actually put together a good game against a good defense? I say no.

After a tough game, Miami pulls it out, but barely.

2) No. 7 USC at No. 24 California: 8:00 on ABC

This is like the scheduling Gods are making up for what looked like a snoozer last week in prime time. Two good games that I have the misfortune of not being able to switch between.

This game really comes down to overcoming a loss. USC did it last week with a moderately impressive bounce-back against Washington State.

USC coming though against a relatively weak opponent is one thing, but Cal needs to come back from an absolute embarrassment handed to them by a team that pretty much threw in the towel after week two.

Let’s be frank for a minute—USC isn't doing anything this year. They might be able to pull out the Pac-10 championship, but they aren’t going to be in the hunt for the National Championship. They need to rely on Joe McKnight and the defense.

For Cal, all you need to do is contain Jahvid Best and you’re all set. Oregon did it and made Cal look like a Pop Warner team.

The problem is that USC and Cal will probably finish 1-2 in the Pac-10. Pac-10 teams this year either have no talent (Washington St.), need a year before they are ready (Washington), or have no discipline (Oregon).

As for this game, USC wins and does it with defense, though everyone will fall all over themselves to tell us how well Matt Barkley did.

3) No. 4 LSU at No. 18 Georgia: 3:30 on CBS

Tell me I’m not the only one who thinks that LSU is only fourth for lack of any other team they could put there. They barely escaped with road wins against Washington and Mississippi State. While I may be a Washington water carrier, I know they are a limited team that is in a rebuilding year, and Mississippi State is Mississippi State.

Georgia has gotten a bit of an unfair rap, but they tried to slug it out with a Big 12 team. You can’t get into a shootout with a high-flying Big 12 team. You need to let your speedy defense contain the offense while you play your game. I thought everyone learned this after Ole Miss dismantled Texas Tech and Florida beat up on Oklahoma last year.

LSU has been getting lucky on the road against opponents they should beat. While I may not like Georgia all that much, they are too good of a team to let LSU push them around. However, like most SEC matchups between the middle of the pack teams, this one should be close, but Georgia wins it.

4) No. 22 Michigan at Michigan State: 12:00 on Big Ten Network

Laugh all you want, but Michigan State is 16 points away from being 4-0. While Michigan is 4-0, all their games have been played at home. Add into that the fact that super freshman Tate Forcier is coming off an injury, and this could be an interesting game.

Michigan State needs to do the one thing they have failed to do all year—stop the passing game. Even if they do that, then they have to contend with the Michigan running game. While MSU is more than willing to let this dissolve into a shootout, they just don’t have the horses to win it by doing that.

MSU has one shot at this. They need to rattle Forcier early, and they need to keep the crowd in it. This young Michigan team may get rattled by a hostile crowd and could buckle under the pressure MSU will surely try to put them under.

I think Michigan pulls it off, but they probably let MSU hang around longer than they should.

5) No. 9 Ohio State at Indiana: 7:00 on Big Ten Network

I think Indiana is a lot better than people give them credit for, while Ohio State is overrated. Seriously, OSU gets Illinois last week, and Terrelle Pryor looks like he would have trouble leading a high school team.

Add to that what Indiana did against Michigan on the road last week. Indiana could have packed it in at any time, and no one would have said a word about it. But they kept in the game and kept battling back and gave a big scare to the Wolverines.

Beating OSU is fairly easy—well, easy to plan, not exactly easy to implement. Put the game in Pryor’s hands. Make him pass the ball. If Indiana can do that, they will be fine.

Offensively, Indiana needs to play their game, take the shots when they come, and don’t do anything stupid. They beat Ohio State in yet another upset.

6) No. 21 Mississippi at Vanderbilt: 7:00 on ESPN U

I love how last week everyone was falling all over themselves praising Ole Miss, yet this week people are saying they need to look out for Vandy. Oh, the fickle winds of fate. Here’s a tip: If you have a talented team in the hands of Houston Nutt, you’re screwed.

Extra Point

7) I’m taking the flip side of the coin and saying this parity thing in college football is no good. How about we spread the upsets throughout the season instead of bludgeoning us about the head with them early in the season? If I were an Alabama fan, I would be wondering when Greg McElroy’s knee was going to blow out.

The one thing about this parity thing that sucks is that I have to deal with these severely flawed teams moving into the top five or top 10. LSU is ranked fourth just because they are lucky enough not to have lost yet. Virginia Tech is ranked sixth and are the highest ranked one-loss team.

Seriously? I need some ACC team to wax VT so I don’t have to actively avoid the Orange Bowl again this year.

I think my main problem is that I have to deal with Oklahoma and Ohio State being back in the mix. I always feel like both teams are extremely overrated and become cannon fodder in the National Championship Game for whatever SEC school decides to win the conference.

I just need to hope that Texas dispatches Oklahoma in a few weeks. I also need to stop using the Extra Point to rant against Oklahoma and Ohio State—even if it is so much fun.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games To Watch in Week Three

Trent Lane — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:28:00 -0400

This may sound strange, but the freshmen quarterbacks out there definitely showed some poise and resilience in Week Two. With Kyle Parker nearly leading Clemson back at Georgia Tech, and both Matt Barkley and Tate Forcier leading their teams back in fourth quarter rallies to win, these freshmen are making an impact.

Makes you wonder why upperclassmen can’t get it done.

But more on that later. Now, on to the Touchdown:

1) Tennessee at No. 1 Florida—3:30 on CBS

Everything tells me this is going to be a blow-out, but for some reason I can’t buy into it. For one thing, you have Lane Kiffin’s remarks about beating Florida and Urban Meyer’s recruiting practices. The last thing you want to do is give Florida any bulletin board material.

Secondly, Tennessee's quarterback is Jonathan Crompton. I would say I don’t trust him, but that pretty much goes without saying, seeing as he is the Tennessee QB. Maybe Vols fans can help me here, but I can’t remember a Tennessee QB that was ever trustworthy.

But if you look past all the pesky facts, you have to think this will be a hard fought game. Tennessee has the whole “nobody believes in us” thing going for them. Plus, minus the diarrhea of the mouth, Kiffin is a good coach. Add on to that that Florida pretty much had extended practice the last two games, this could equal something exciting. The defending champs will win, but expect some interesting stuff.

2) No. 14 Georgia Tech at No. 20 Miami—7:30 on ESPN on Sept 17

Am I the only one who thinks it’s unfair that you have three good teams in the ACC Coastal Division vying for the title while the winner of the Atlantic Division will be whoever messes up the least? Okay, just wanted to make sure.

I, for one, am a little shocked that Miami has started their turnaround this early. They will have problems with well-rounded teams, but they are good at keying to the run and shutting it down.

GT loves to run the ball. I nearly spit out my beer when I saw Nesbitt’s passing numbers against Clemson last week. I seriously thought the folks in the stats area at ESPN were joking. Plus, GT seems to lack the ability to finish off teams. That Clemson game should have been over by the half.

Miami will need to spread the ball on offense and limit dumb mistakes. If they key on the GT running game, they should be able to stop it. Expect it to stay close, but Miami will pull away with this one to give them a leg up on the rest of the ACC.

3) No. 19 Nebraska at No. 13 Virginia Tech—3:30 on ABC

Man, if I keep putting ACC teams on this list, people might actually think it’s a good conference. However, you need to give VT credit for the non-conference schedule.

However, this game comes down to defense. You have the really good defense of VT and the “could be good in the future” defense of Nebraska. Nebraska really needs to be able to stop the run on the first few series, and they should be good, thanks to the need of Tyrod Taylor to prove to people that he can throw.

On offense, Nebraska needs to be able to have a balanced attack, but willing to attack via the air at will when the VT defense steps up and stops the run. The good thing for Nebraska is that VT has an offensive style consistent with the middle of the road teams in their own division, so they should be used to it. Nebraska wins, but it’s nowhere near as close as the score will indicate.

4) No. 3 USC at Washington—3:30 on ABC

Yeah, yeah, I know what you’re thinking, but I think this has the possibility to be the best game on Saturday. Of course, it could be another USC blow-out. But, let’s break this thing down.

USC proved during the OSU game that they can stop the run but still have some issues stopping an inconsistent QB. Jake Locker is not Terrelle Pryor. In fact, the two should never be mentioned in the same sentence, as it insults Locker. Locker also has one of the top-flight offensive geniuses in his corner in Steve Sarkisian.

USC has a question mark at QB. Matt Barkley took a nasty hit in the OSU game and has a sore shoulder. Aaron Corp is looking to take his place if needed. This is a two-pronged issue for USC. You can have either a less than 100 percent Barkley going for you or Corp, who may try to do too many things to prove he should be the starter.

Washington is making leaps and bounds in the defensive area and could disrupt a USC offense that is still trying to find its rhythm. Put a gun to my head, and I’ll take USC. Sit with me on Saturday, and I’ll be rooting for Washington.

5) Florida State at No. 7 BYU–7:00 on local channels

Mad props go to BYU as well for their non-conference schedule. They want to be taken seriously and FSU and Oklahoma will make people see them in a whole new light

This is really a tale of two programs. BYU is surging. Max Hall and the BYU offense are making people sit up and take notice. They have a defense that is able to keep good offenses in check and won’t make stupid mistakes. Even if they did, Hall is more than capable to win a shoot-out.

FSU, on the other hand, is looking pretty lame. The loss to the youthful Miami is one thing, but the near loss to Jacksonville State was just sad. I was embarrassed just watching it. Christian Ponder reminds me a lot of Drew Weatherford, good arm and good stats, but will fold like a lawn chair when the going gets tough.

BYU wins and wins big. They get more publicity and FSU starts to fade even earlier than normal, and people begin the “Does Bowden still have it?” discussion sometime during the second quarter blowout loss to Georgia Tech.

6) Texas Tech at No. 2 Texas—8:00 on ABC

I’m going to start listening to AC/DC’s “Rock and Roll Train” on a continuous loop starting sometime on Friday. When I start watching the game, I’m going to squint and pretend I see Harrell and Crabtree. I will also pretend that Texas is the same flawed team they were last year as they blow-out Texas Tech and I start debating whether to watch Eureka or Supernatural on my DVR.

7) Extra Point

Sometime during Matt Barkley’s drive against OSU last week, I started wondering why freshman QBs were given the helm of some teams. Teams like USC have no problem recruiting, but they have three guys right now who could start and would have no problems.

Plus they have top flight QBs like Mitch Mustain transferring there from relatively safe spots like Arkansas (of course, if I got replaced by Casey Dick, I would leave too). Normally, you transfer to lesser schools (see Jevan Snead), not into fierce competition. Mustain’s idiocy got me thinking.

I say we petition the NCAA to let Mitch Mustain transfer again to Ohio State and not only not lose another year of eligibility, but let him start next week for them. OSU has a good team with a horrid QB. Mustain is not going to do anything but ride the pines for the rest of his time at USC. This is win-win for everyone. Plus, I might stop hating OSU. Okay, I probably won’t, but it’s worth a shot.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Two

Trent Lane — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:57:00 -0400

So, we’re already one week in and the wacky world of college football is back in full swing. Not only did one of the elite teams of college football lose to a team from the Mountain West, but the reigning Heisman Trophy winner is out for a couple of weeks due to a shoulder injury. Of course, let’s forget for a moment I called that (the loss, not the injury). But more on this later, let’s get to the Touchdown.

1) No. 3 USC at No. 8 Ohio State—8:00 on ABC

As if there was any doubt that this would be the number one game of the week. Anyone who actually has any thought that Ohio State can beat USC needs to watch the last week’s games. You can make a case when a less talented team beats a more talented team that it was a case of matchups. You can’t make that case in the Ohio State-Navy game.

USC is built to thrash any and all comers, even though I don’t think they can make it though the season unscathed. They are able to compete with any team irrespective of conference.

With Ohio State, they are built to play in the Big Ten and that’s it. They cannot match up with the top tier teams of the elite conferences. Their main problem is Terrelle Pryor. He is a poor man’s version of Tyrod Taylor, and I don’t want Taylor leading my team into a big showdown, so I would be downright scared with Pryor at the helm.

If this thing is close after one quarter, I’ll be shocked. Let’s just hope it kills the chances of Ohio State to play in the National Championship Game, because I don’t need to see their flaws on display to the SEC team du jour.

2) Clemson at No. 15 Georgia Tech—7:30 on ESPN (Sep. 10)

After last week’s dismal performance by the ACC, I almost dropped this game down the list. However, this is an early, critical ACC matchup. With the FSU loss on Monday, a win could give Clemson an early one-game lead over their division foes. Standing in their way is Georgia Tech.

Georgia Tech’s bread and butter is their running attack, led by star running back Jonathan Dwyer. They also employ the scary triple option, which gives teams fits. Clemson’s saving grace is that they have a very good run defense.

Clemson comes in with star running back C.J. Spiller, who is also extremely dangerous on kick returns. GT needs to try and stop Spiller and put the ball in the hands of freshman QB Kyle Parker. While Parker played well in the Middle Tennessee State game, his completion percentage was low and it is unclear on how the new kid will react under pressure situations. I think GT wins, but Clemson keeps it close, losing yet another heartbreaker.

3) No. 18 Notre Dame at Michigan—3:30 on ABC

I didn’t think ND would make it out of the number six spot all year long. However, after last week’s skillful performance, I have to give them props. Last week gave ND fans hope that Jimmy Clausen has turned a corner and will become the QB that everyone was excited about when he arrived as a freshman.

This week will be the first real test for Clausen against a fairly competent team in a very hostile environment. While I don’t think Michigan will win the Big Ten, they will be able to compete and live to play the spoiler, while giving their young QB experience.

I really don’t think that Michigan can run with ND. They might be able to keep it close through a half, but adrenaline will only get you so far. Michigan needs a full game of consistent play; I just think they are too young to do it against a team like ND.

4) South Carolina at No. 21 Georgia—7:00 on ESPN2

This was kind of a weird one for me to pick. On one hand, it is a classic, early season SEC throwdown. On the other, both teams stunk up the joint last week. However, since this game is usually a close, hard fought game, it gets the nod.

Last week, both teams played well defensively, but looked lost on offense, something fans might find strange. However, both teams are still trying to find their offensive rhythm using two QB’s with limited game experience. It is basically going to come down to the team that makes the least amount of errors on offense.

I have to think it’s Georgia, because they are at home and I think they can beat some of the lower echelon team’s in the SEC. If you saw the NC State/South Carolina game, I think SC counts as that right now.

5) No. 9 BYU at Tulane—3:30 on ESPN2

What’s that smell in the air? Oh yeah, it’s the smell of a trap game. Listen, I don’t care about all the talk, I really don’t think BYU is taking Tulane seriously.

And you know, that’s all right. Good teams can get away with that. However, great teams never deal with it. They just came off a stunning victory against Oklahoma and have their first home game against FSU next week; it is easy to overlook Tulane.

Unfortunately for Tulane, unless they poison Max Hall, they really don’t have a chance in this one. Their offense is pitiful, and the BYU defense mixed schemes and pressured an overwhelmed Oklahoma offense all game last week. I think this one is over early.

6) Idaho State at No. 13 Oklahoma—7:00 on local channels

This one is for all the Oklahoma fans who want to torture themselves. See that guy out there who looks like he’s going to pee his pants? That’s your quarterback for the next couple of weeks. Enjoy.

Extra Point:

7) Even without the BYU upset and the Bradford injury, week one was wacky. However, are you really shocked by anything that happens in college football now? I mean, when I woke up and found out that Blount pulled a Ron Artest after the Boise State/Oregon game, I wasn’t shocked by it, but tried to figure out how many games he would get suspended for.

When Jimmy Clausen decided to channel Brady Quinn’s Notre Dame ghost, I didn’t really bat an eyelash. The ACC proves (yet again) that they are an inferior conference, I felt more justified than anything. But this just proves it, that anything that can happen, will happen. We just have to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week One

Trent Lane — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:06:00 -0400

Oh man, it’s the best time of the year not associated with a bearded fat man. That’s right; it’s the beginning of college football season.

I’m not sure what I’m more excited about, the fact that I get college football every Saturday until December or that I just found out that someone uploaded the second season of Ashes to Ashes to YouTube (take that BBC America). More on my giddy enthusiasm later. Now, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 5 Alabama vs. No. 7 Virginia Tech—8:00 on ABC in Atlanta

Oh man, this game is causing this Clemson fan to have flashbacks to last year's opener in which Alabama demolished the Tigers en route to a BCS bowl. I think if you look at this, you’ll have pretty much that same result as last year.

Even though 'Bama has a new QB in Greg McElroy, their defense is coming back with eight starters, and that will be the key for them all year. Now, VT will have the same starting QB they had last year, but Tyrod Taylor isn’t exactly Steady Eddie.

Plus, they lost their running back to an ACL tear and get a redshirt freshman in the backfield. Good times…if you’re the 'Bama defense. I seriously think 'Bama takes this with ease.

2) No. 13 Georgia at No. 9 Oklahoma State—3:30 on ABC

I’m a little excited about this game, because I get to see one of the reasons I changed my opinion about the Big 12: Oklahoma State. Yes, expect me to carry the Cowboy’s water all season long in the Touchdown.

Oklahoma State comes in with one of the most explosive offenses in the country with QB Zac Robinson, RB Kendall Hunter, and WR Dez Bryant. Expect them to light up the scoreboard. On the flip side, I would expect Georgia to play steady ball feeding the ball to their RB’s and trying to stretch the field with AJ Green.

The Cowboy’s problem is the same as every Big 12 team with a good offense. They face a good defense and they buckle like a belt (see Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Texas Tech from last year). I think Georgia can keep it close, but the Oklahoma State offense will carry the day.

3) No. 16 Oregon at No. 14 Boise State—10:15 on ESPN on 9/3

You know its college football time when you see blue turf. This is a rematch of last year’s opening game between the two, in which Boise State beat Oregon on their home field. It’s for that reason that Oregon is fired up for this one.

Oregon’s starting QB, Jeremiah Masoli, was very effective last year but was inconsequential in last year’s game when he was knocked out of the game by a late hit and he’s looking for a little payback. Although the Duck’s lost their starting running back to the NFL, the back-up did gain 1,000 yards and is ready to carry the load.

Boise State, on the other hand, had one of the top scoring defenses in the country last year and hasn’t lost a regular season game at home since 2001. Oregon will be the team that ends that streak.

4) No. 20 BYU vs. No. 3 Oklahoma—7:00 on ESPN in Arlington, TX

Two of the best QB’s in the country get to face off against one another as Max Hall leads the BYU Cougars against Sam Bradford and Oklahoma.

As we all know, Oklahoma went on to lose, again, to an SEC opponent in the National Championship Game (they are like Ohio State at this point). I have to try and steer clear of my “Why Oklahoma Sucks” rant.

I think BYU has this one. Now, before you start laughing hysterically, I actually have a good reason for this. While BYU is mega-talented, they have nothing to play for.

They want nothing more to take it to Oklahoma and prove they deserve some acclaim. Oklahoma, on the other hand, has to try and avenge the loss from last year and shake the “Ohio State” label that I slapped them with.

Florida was nice enough to write the “How To Beat Oklahoma” handbook last year. Tip No 1: harass the hell out of Sam Bradford. With four new starters on the offensive line, I expect this will be easier than last year.

BYU will need to hit early and often when they have the ball and try and disrupt Bradford, which I think they can do. Okay, you can start to laugh now.

5) No. 11 LSU at Washington—10:30 on ESPN

Normally this game wouldn’t do anything for me, but I love the QB in this game. If you think I’m talking about Jordan Jefferson, just stop reading now. I’m a big time Jake Locker fan.

We should get to see Locker air it out with new coach and former USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian at the helm. I have a strong suspicion that Washington will do better this year than their winless effort last year. However, that is not to say they will beat LSU.

LSU, even with shaky QB play, should take this handily against the poor defense of Washington. There is only so much Locker can do, and while I think they will win some good games this year, this isn’t one of them.

6) Miami at No. 18 Florida State—8:00 on ESPN on 9/7

Remember when this game used to have National Championship implications for both teams? Remember when we would all eagerly anticipate this game? Now, they are just fighting for the middle of the ACC standings.

Extra Point:

7) While I’m all excited about the return of college football, my wife is on the other end of the spectrum. Her reaction when I mentioned it last week: “oh great, I lose my husband for every Saturday for the next four months.”

It’s just been so long dealing with prima donna professional athletes, performance enhancing drugs, and contract holdouts that I just want something a little more pure in my sports.

Thankfully, we have college football. Yes, it has its flaws, but there is just something about it that makes me feel that this is what sports are all about. Especially when Ohio State and Oklahoma lose.

David Ortiz, Steroids, and Red Sox Nation

Trent Lane — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:31:00 -0400

When I was six years old growing up in the wilds of Vermont, I knew three basic truths about the world I lived in. One, that Scooby Doo would always foil the plans of some evil do-er. Two, that my Atari was my most prized possession. Three, that the Red Sox were always good and, conversely, that the Yankees were always evil. Then I grew up and became more jaded and apathetic.

While I am still a Red Sox fan, I can’t get up the shock and outrage about the David Ortiz PED revelation. Not because I’m some boot-licking homer, but because I kind of expected it. The problem was that there was no real Barry Bonds-esque change where you were like “well, he’s definitely on something." Every number, every thing he did could be attributed to some non-chemical explanation.

The problem is that you can play the guessing game with everyone. My buddy D.B. (a Yankee fan) and I went back and forth yesterday on whom we thought on the 2004 Red Sox was also on the juice. I ended it when I told him that the whole team could have tested positive and I wouldn’t be surprised, but also that they could all be clean and I would have the same reaction. Everyone is suspect. The clean players are going to have live with the fact that there will be people who think they cheated and the dirty players are going to have live with the fact that they are cheaters.

The only good part of this whole thing is the idiocy displayed by the pink-hatted members of “Red Sox Nation." They are backtracking so fast, it is downright hilarious. They were so fast to demonize the Yankees when A-Rod, Giambi, or Pettitte made a list, but now have to play defense.

The most common excuse is that “everyone did it." The attempt here is to quash any notion that the titles in 2004 and 2007 are in some way “tainted”. But are they? Without comprehensive testing of all players, on all team, for all substances, no teams championships are tainted, be it the Yankees, the Red Sox, or anyone else. This was my contention when Yankees’ players were being named and it’s my contention now.

The most ludicrous (and I still laugh when I hear it) is the “somebody slipped him something” defense. It goes hand in hand with the “bad batch defense." Basically, either somebody slipped something into a drink of his or he got a sketchy batch of Andro or some supplement from GNC. The point being that this would exonerate Big Papi while still being able to demonize the Yankees. It’s a pathetic excuse.

You need to put it into the realm of possibility that the easiest answer is probably the right one. He saw his career on the razors edge and needed something, anything to keep it alive. He talked to a “trainer," got his hands on some performance enhancing substance, and took it to save his career. Is it really that far out of the realm of possibility?

So here’s a note to all the apologists. Just stop. He did it and got caught. You can still root for him and this doesn’t change what happened in 2004 and 2007. You just can’t demonize anyone else who got caught. You can’t cackle with glee the next time someone like Clemens or A-Rod gets caught. You have to sit there, take it, and keep your mouth shut. You know, its times like this that it’s fun to be a sane Red Sox fan.

Trent's Touchdown: Six BCS Bowls to Watch

Trent Lane — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 17:25:00 -0500

It’s all come down to this. The last handful of bowl games and the end of the 2008 season is here. It seems like just yesterday I was reading some article in USA Today and some columnist was mentioning a possible Clemson/Georgia National Championship Game. Excuse me while I go cry in the corner.

Anyway, on to the last Touchdown of the year.

1) The FedEx National Championship Game – No. 1 Oklahoma vs. No. 2 Florida – 1/8 at 8:00 on FOX

I know that once this game starts, I’ll be counting the minutes until ESPN actually gets the rights to the BCS Bowls.

Seriously though, is there anything I’m going to write here that hasn’t been covered, ad nauseam, somewhere else? Since each team's one loss, they have been treating their opponents like a red-headed stepchild. And these games haven’t been against pushovers either.

Oklahoma has one of the most prolific offenses in the nation, with two RB’s with over 1,000 yards rushing and four WR’s with over 600 yards receiving, and led by the Heisman Trophy winner at QB.

Florida, on the other hand, has last year’s Heisman Trophy winner at QB and Percy Harvin, the best all-purpose threat in the country. As much as I want to say this game is going to come down to defense (the speedy Florida D is something that Oklahoma hasn’t faced all year), I really think it comes down to Tebow.

Ever since the Ole Miss loss, he has been like a man possessed. He has thrown his team on his back and will do anything and everything to make sure Florida wins. Due to this, I think Florida does exactly that.

2) The Allstate Sugar Bowl – No. 4 Alabama vs. No. 6 Utah – 1/2 at 8:00 on FOX

A year after the Hawaii debacle, it’s good to see the Sugar Bowl taking another flier on a non-BCS school.

This game is going to be Alabama’s defense against Utah’s offense. Utah has a very balanced attack that can either take you out on the ground or shred you through the air. But they are going to need all the help they can get against one of the best defenses in the nation. I don’t care how many rushing yards you have, you are going to have trouble gaining ground against Alabama.

On the flip side, John Parker Wilson is probably one of the best game managers in the game. He realizes his many limitations and doesn’t let them hurt his team. Alabama may have some trouble with running lanes and protection with their All-American left tackle suspended for the game. However, I just can’t see Alabama losing this game.

3) The Rose Bowl – No. 5 USC vs. No. 8 Penn State – 1/1 at 4:30 on ABC

While Penn State and USC may feel slighted by not even entering into the National Championship talk; this is the perfect place for them.

If you look at this game rationally, Penn State really doesn’t stand much of a chance. Before all you Penn State fans jump all over me, when have I ever been one for rationality?

This game comes down to Penn State’s offense. USC is going to score, that’s a no brainer. Penn State’s defense will be able to contain them to a certain extent, that’s a no brainer too.

The main question is if Penn State’s sometimes pitiful offense can move the ball at all against what some experts are calling one of the best defenses of all time. Penn State needs to capitalize on turnovers and field position to make any sort of run at USC. They need to slow down the tempo and knock USC in the mouth. That being said, USC will win without much trouble.

4) The Tostitos Fiesta Bowl – No. 10 Ohio State vs. No.3 Texas – 1/5 at 8:00 on FOX

Do you really want to be Ohio State in this one against a slighted and pissed Texas squad? Me neither.

Let’s break this down all-scientific like. The defensive weakness of Texas is pass defense. The offensive weakness of OSU is the pass. You see where I’m going with this one?

If Texas can control Beanie Wells and put the game in Pryor’s hands, they are in a very good position. Let’s not even get into the throwing and running ability of Colt McCoy. If OSU keeps this competitive past the first quarter, I’ll be shocked.

5) The FedEx Orange Bowl – No. 12 Cincinnati vs. No. 19 Virginia Tech – 1/1 at 8:30 on FOX

Welcome to the BCS Bowl that no one really cares about, unless you’re one of the water carriers for the ACC or Big East (and you know who you are). Since I write for everyone, so let me give this a go.

This is sort of like a poor man’s Rose Bowl, with the Cincy offense that can light it up, and the VT defense that pretty much carried them here. VT needs to be able to click offensively in order to win, which means limiting Tyrod Taylor’s mistakes, which is easier said than done.

Listen, VT is one shocking team, and if they won, I wouldn’t be surprised. However, all Cincy needs to do to win is do what they’ve done all year long. Put points on the board and limit the opponent’s offense. Therefore, I think Cincy wins it.

6) The Cotton Bowl – No. 25 Mississippi vs. No. 7 Texas Tech – 1/2 at 2:00 on FOX

I almost put this ahead of the Orange Bowl, just to be funny. And before any wise guy says anything, I know the Cotton Bowl isn’t a BCS game, but it’s close enough.

A little disclaimer here, I have been a Texas Tech apple polisher all year long, so don’t expect it to stop here. However, Texas Tech fans have to be a little scared of Ole Miss.

For one, they are the only team to beat Florida and they did it in the Swamp. As for another, they have a great defense. Remember what happened last time Harrell and Co. faced a great defense?

Ole Miss also has a balanced offense led by one-time Colt McCoy back-up Jevan Snead. Oklahoma wrote the book on how to beat Texas Tech. You pressure Harrell, early and often and never let up, and you play smart offensively.

There are only about five or so teams that can beat Texas Tech. Unfortunately, Ole Miss is built to be one of those teams. However, unlike Oklahoma, they aren’t built to do it consistently. I think Texas Tech ekes this one out.

Extra Point:

7) You know, I could sit here and rant and rave about how Ohio State doesn’t deserve a BCS Bowl bid or that the BCS rankings screwed Texas. I could go on about how they need to repeal the rule that only two conference teams can make BCS Bowls (in light of there being five bowls) or that there is more drama in the Outback Bowl than the Orange Bowl. I could also point out that Colt McCoy was my pick for the Heisman.

I’m not going to do any of that. I’m going to stay positive and wish everyone a Happy New Year. Enjoy the bowls and I’ll see you for next year’s installment of the Touchdown.

Trent's Touchdown - Six Non-BCS Bowls to Watch

Trent Lane — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:16:00 -0500

Here we are at the most wonderful time of the year. No, not Christmas. I’m talking about Bowl Week. Well, it’s longer than a week, but you get the picture.

It couldn’t have happened at a better time since you can only talk about the same matchups so many times before it gets completely repetitive and boring. Hopefully my article won’t be the one that pushes it over the edge.

Before we get to the matchups, this will be for the non-BCS bowls. The breakdown for the BCS bowls will come later and will include the Cotton Bowl, because it’s the closest thing we have to a BCS bowl that isn’t.

1) The Pacific Life Holiday Bowl – No. 13 Oklahoma State vs. No. 17 Oregon – Dec. 30 at 8 p.m. on ESPN

Oklahoma State is just one of the few teams I completely fell in love with this year, so don’t expect any unbiased assessment right now.

Both teams boost explosive running games, but you have to expect OSU to air it out since the Oregon pass defensive is woeful. When you have Zac Robinson and Dez Bryant, you can afford to air it out.

On the Oregon side, Jeremiah Masoli is no slouch, as he’s proven lately. Being serious, though, Oregon is going to need to play flawlessly, as OSU can pick apart teams that give them an opening. I just don’t see Oregon doing that.

2) The Capital One Bowl – No. 15 Georgia vs. No. 18 Michigan State – Jan. 1 at 1 p.m. on ABC

This has all the makings of an old fashioned slugfest. Both teams are very good on the ground and more than willing to pound the ball for yards. Unfortunately, both teams are from conferences where you need to stop the run to win.

Georgia has the added benefit of Matthew Stafford, but he is much better when he limits his mistakes and gets yards from Knowshon Moreno. On the flip side, you have Brian Hoyer, who might be able to lead his team to victory against the dregs of the Big Ten, but this is Georgia.

The MSU defense needs to stop Moreno and put the game in the hands of Stafford. Obviously, it’s not the best course of action, but it’s really the only chance they have at winning.

3) The Poinsettia Bowl – No. 9 Boise State vs. No. 11 TCU – Dec. 23 at 8 p.m. on ESPN

Raise your hands if this game seems more appealing than the Orange Bowl. I see a lot of hands raised.

Boise State comes in doing what they always do: They light up the scoreboard, with the 13th-ranked offense in the country. Yet, they get to face off against the second-best defense in the country.

TCU is no joke here; they held Utah and BYU to a combined 20 points. They have proven they can hold off the best teams in non-BCS conferences. It really comes down to TCU trying to control the tempo and not having to come from too far behind at any point in the game. With that said, I think Boise State rips them up.

4) The Chick-Fil-A Bowl – LSU vs. No. 14 Georgia Tech – Dec. 31 at 7:30 p.m.on ESPN

If you look at LSU, I mean really look at them, do the five losses and lack of a national ranking really surprise anyone? Seriously, you can’t compete in the SEC when you’re shaky at the QB position, and if you look up “shaky” in dictionary, you see Jarrett Lee.

Anyway, I know this is getting repetitive, but both teams boast a strong running game. And if it was just an ordinary running game, I would laugh and give the game to LSU, despite Lee.

However, any GT fan will tell you that the Yellow Jackets are anything but ordinary. They sport the triple option, with a strong option QB and one of the best running backs in the league. Georgia Tech walks with this one.

5) The Valero Alamo Bowl – No. 21 Missouri vs. No. 23 Northwestern – Dec. 29 at 8 p.m. on ESPN

Northwestern really just came out of nowhere, didn’t they? Missouri, on the other hand, really spiraled out of control.

I’m going to pull a Lee Corso here and give a “not so fast, my friend” to all the people who think Missouri walks in this one. Yes, Chase Daniel is an extremely good QB, but he gets rattled by good defenses. The Northwestern defense is the No. 1 reason why they are where they are.

They will pressure Daniel and force him to make mistakes. If Northwestern can get good field position, they should be able to put points on the board. I think Chase Daniel ends his college career on a low point.

6) The Sheraton Hawaii Bowl – Hawaii vs. Notre Dame – Dec. 24 at 8 p.m. on ESPN

I don’t know what I find funnier, that Notre Dame actually made a bowl or that they will probably lose.

Extra Point:

7) OK, I’ve ranted and raved about many things this season. I even made a cogent point every once in a while. However, in light of the Christmas season and the upcoming debacle that will be the BCS bowls, I’m going to go positive.

This season has been just plain fun. Take off your partisan hats and take a look at the college football season as a whole. While complete parity is not upon us (and I don’t want that), every team is becoming more competitive, which leads to a better product week in and week out.

Look at Texas Tech as a prime example. For those couple of weeks (between the Kansas game until the Oklahoma game), they were an amazingly fun team to watch. And it wasn’t just because of the explosive offense or the insane fans. They weren’t Oklahoma, or Florida, or Texas, or any other team we expect to compete year in and year out.

So, I want to give a “thank you” to the Red Raiders this year, and Kansas and Missouri last year, and whatever team comes out of the woodwork next year. Thank you for making college football enjoyable and, even for a moment, giving fans of teams that aren’t always the best (like me with Clemson) a little bit of hope for next year.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week 15

Trent Lane — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:11:00 -0500

There are a few things you can always count on. You can count on weird, twisting mythology in any Stargate show. You can count on overt misogyny in Robert Ludlum books. And you can count on the BCS screwing up at least one thing per season.

At least this year they didn’t wait until the announcement of the bowl games to do it. But more on this later.

We have championship weekend ahead of us. Can you believe we are at the end of the season already? Neither can I. Anyway, on to the touchdown:

1. SEC Championship Game—No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 4 Florida—4:00 on CBS in Atlanta

I think we can safely assume that the winner of this goes to the national championship game. People want to see the Alabama defense against the Florida offense, and I have to agree. It all starts with trying to contain Florida. If you can do that, then you have a chance.

One great way to contain them is to keep the Florida offense off the field. Alabama needs to methodically move the ball down the field, using their great running game to eat up yards and the clock.

No one can afford to get into a shoot-out with Florida; they are just too good, as witnessed by the stream-rolling they have done to opponents since the one-point loss to Ole Miss. I just don’t think Alabama can do it, but people have been underestimating them all year. What’s one more game?

2. Big 12 Championship Game—No. 2 Oklahoma vs. No. 20 Missouri—8:00 on ABC in Kansas City

Why does this look familiar? Oh yeah, it’s a rematch of last year’s Big 12 Championship Game. So, Oklahoma jumped ahead of a team they lost to earlier in the season to get here, while Missouri limped in after losing to Kansas.

Like Florida, Oklahoma has just been a buzz-saw recently, easily beating down all that stand in their way. Missouri needs to play above their limit and Chase Daniel has to come out strong. However, these are two situations I don’t see happening. I think it’s a moral victory if Missouri only loses by three touchdowns.

3. ACC Championship Game—No. 17 Boston College vs. No. 25 Virginia Tech—1:00 on ABC in Tampa

Like the Big 12 Championship Game, this is a repeat of last year's matchup. Unlike last year, though, I’ll be watching this one for the comedy factor.

You have two excellent defenses and two shaky quarterbacks, so it should be fun. I really don’t see either team winning this one based on offensive ability, but on how the defense reacts.

Virginia Tech has a more experienced quarterback and a knack for making big plays in key situations, so I think VT will win, but it will be close.

4. No. 5 USC at UCLA—4:30 on ABC

USC has been pretty dominant since their early season loss to Oregon State. The hallmark of the team has really been their defense. They seem to get better with every game. They take the pressure off of Mark Sanchez.

UCLA, on the other hand, is offensively challenged (and that’s putting it mildly), considering their offense gave up 28 points to Arizona State last week (four defensive touchdowns!). UCLA has a solid defense, so they might be able to hang with USC for a little bit, but USC should run away with it.

5. No. 13 Cincinnati at Hawaii—11:30 on ESPN

First you win the Big East, and then get a trip to Hawaii. It’s party time. Actually, this is a tune-up for Cincy before they face the ACC champion in the Orange Bowl (most likely). Cincy needs to watch themselves, since Hawaii is playing for nothing but pride. BC or VT fans should tune in to see their probable BCS foe.

6. Navy vs. Army—12:00 on CBS

You know, during the presidential election, I was wondering if McCain became president, would he still be able to root for Navy? It's just one of those questions we’ll never have a straight answer to.

Extra Point

Before I start, I want to assure Oklahoma fans that if Texas came out on top, this rant would have been directed at them…maybe. Anyway, Texas got screwed. Plain and simple.

I still don’t understand how the BCS jumped Oklahoma ahead of Texas. Let’s break this down. Texas loses to Texas Tech on the road, beats Oklahoma on a neutral field, and Oklahoma beats Texas Tech at home. Just by looking at that, who is the better team between Texas and Oklahoma? Alright, now we’re getting somewhere.

Before all you Sooner fans fall back on point differential, just remember that this has nothing to do with the discussion, since it’s not a factor in determining the champion. These need to be fixed one of two ways.

One, have the BCS give us the top two, then take the head to head winner (in this case, Texas). Two, go to point differential against common opponents before BCS standings (in this case, Oklahoma).

Both have issues. The BCS option can freeze out the No. 3 team and still leaves the decision in the hands of coaches and computers. The point differential option promotes running up the score. Something needs to be done and this week proves that the current system is flawed.

One more point before I go, Oklahoma fans. If your team defeated Texas on the neutral field and lost to Texas Tech on the road while Texas had run up the score on Tech at home, would you be saying “Gee, Texas deserves it?" I didn’t think so.

Trent's Touchdown - Six Games to Watch in Week 14

Trent Lane — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 12:24:00 -0500

Welcome to the Thanksgiving addition of the Touchdown. I’m telling you, when I get older, I’m going to have to stop watching college football, because it’ll give me a heart attack. We are at yet another important juncture of the season where a handful of teams all have a shot at the National Championship Game. What better way to sort it all out during Rivalry Week.

1) No. 3 Oklahoma at No. 12 Oklahoma State – 8:00 on ABC

Bedlam baby! Yet another Big 12 South prime-time showdown. I don’t know what is more impressive, the fact that the Big 12 has been so fun to watch this year or the fact that the number 12 team in the country is 4th in their division.

Even if Oklahoma wins, they still aren’t guaranteed the trip to the Big 12 Championship Game (Bedlam indeed). While I’m far from buying into Oklahoma, they are the quintessential Big 12 team that will get blown out by a SEC team in the National Championship Game. They have enough defensive talent to disrupt a good offense and enough offensive firepower to give a good defense fits.

While I want Oklahoma State to win, I don’t think they will. Zac Robinson is not as good as Graham Harrell and Dez Bryant is not as good as Michael Crabtree. One more prediction here, the BCS decides the Big 12 South Champion.

2) No. 23 Oregon at No. 17 Oregon State – 7:00 on VS.

Civil War baby! If you told me at the beginning of the year that this game could produce the Pac 10 Champion, I would have said, “wow, Oregon finally got it together.” Instead, it’s the Beavers with the shot at the Rose Bowl.

However, there is a bit of a problem since their star running back is out with a shoulder sprain. You can expect Oregon State to throw more, since Oregon has a horrid pass defense. Oregon will likely run the ball, but aren’t scared to throw it with Jeremiah Masoli getting better. I still think Oregon State will win this one, even with a back-up running back.

3) No. 4 Florida at No. 22 Florida State – 3:30 on ABC

There are too many jokes I can make about the FSU legal problems, but I’m going to try and limit it to one. With the FSU roster starting to look like they are trying out for Law & Order, you have to think Florida will run away with this.

Florida needs to be focused, since they need to win to stay in the National Championship hunt. As much as I love FSU’s youthful enthusiasm, I really don’t think they can stay on the field with Florida.

The Florida defense is too fast to be beaten by the run and the offense is too explosive to be kept in check for long. Florida just has too many weapons, which is usually how FSU’s legal problems start (oops, two jokes, sorry).

4) No. 22 Georgia Tech at No. 11 Georgia – 12:00 on CBS

Minus the random delusional or pessimistic fan, who would have thought either team would have the rankings they have right now?

Georgia is going to have to limit the run as much as possible, because there is no way they are stopping GT from getting yards on the ground. They need to try and force GT to throw the ball, which not only limits their effectiveness, but also provides a comedy factor for the viewing audience.

Georgia has a more balanced offensive attack, so GT will need to be consistent and play solid situational defense. Thankfully, for Georgia, they’ve had 2 weeks to prepare for the first option offense they’ve seen all year, and it’ll help. They should win this one.

5) Kansas vs. No. 13 Missouri – 12:30 on FOX Sports in Kansas City

Border War baby! This contest is really at battle between Todd Reesing and Chase Daniel. The better QB today wins. Both Missouri and Kansas have really poor pass defenses, so expect an aerial show.

Missouri just has too much talent and Kansas has been too inconsistent, especially against talented teams. This won’t be as close as last year’s game (which was closer than the score reflected).

6) Notre Dame at No. 5 USC – 8:00 on ABC

If you lose to Syracuse at home, you should be permanently banned from the Touchdown, except for comedic purposes. And just so you know, I’m laughing right now.

Extra Point:

7) We all know what Thanksgiving mean, gorging yourself on Turkey and falling asleep on the couch while watching football. This year that football game will be the Texas/Texas A&M game (at least in my house).

Which leads me to wonder about Thanksgiving for these kids. I mean, they can’t have a big Turkey dinner before the game. You can’t have Colt McCoy falling asleep in the huddle. But you can’t have it after the game, since it’ll be way too late. Do they have to wait until the weekend? Do they even get a Thanksgiving dinner? Am I thinking about this too much?

Obviously, I can answer the last question, and the answer is yes. Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Now stop reading and start picking at the leftovers.

Matt Cassel: The New Golden Boy?

Trent Lane — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:35:00 -0500

You ever hear the phrase that the favorite player on a football team is the backup quarterback? Well, welcome to New England, where Matt Cassel is the new golden boy.

Now, the Patriot fans fall into two distinct categories.

One, those who think Cassel is Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, and Tom Brady all rolled into one. He is the next great quarterbacking legend and can do no wrong. Now that he has his shot at the limelight, he will shine brighter than all and lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl. Some obsessed fan boy who can see no wrong no matter how glaring it is. You know, like your average critic when writing about Grey’s Anatomy.

Two, those who want to rip him to shreds. Those who think that he is horrible, and will point to an innocuous 2nd-and-8 pass in which he overthrew Wes Welker as proof that he is no better than your average Pop Warner Quarterback. That he is all that is wrong with Patriots football and once he is put out of his misery, we will all be better for it.

Think I’m joking? I walked into work on Monday to an argument from the two Presidents of these fan groups. It was an amusing argument, only for the fact that I wanted to jump in and slap them both silly.

Here’s why...

I belong to a very small third fan base. I am willing to sit back, enjoy the games, praise Cassel and the Pats where deserved, but can also be critical without sounding like a pessimistic, brain-dead sports fan. But for some reason, people want to jump to one extreme or the other. How about we see how this all plays out?

Now, I have thought that the past two games were a definite improvement for Cassel and the offense (even if they lost to the Jets). He still can’t hit the deep ball, has trouble checking down, and can’t seem to utilize Randy Moss as much as he should.

However, the problem isn’t with the offense, but the defense. Yet no one seems to want to talk about it.

Listen, when all is said and done, Matt Cassel won’t be the reason if they don’t make it to the playoffs or win the Super Bowl. Truthfully, he is an average to good quarterback who has been steadily improving over the course of the season. He may develop the ability to throw the team on his back and carry them to the playoffs and behind.

Average quarterbacks can lead their teams to the Super Bowl, but they usually have a good defense helping them out. Too bad Cassel is missing that.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week 13

Trent Lane — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:21:00 -0500

Riddle me this. Did the average fan actually watch a lot of college football last weekend? I swear, I watched like 15 total minutes last week.

We’re back to normal this week with another “Biggest Game of the Year” and many key conference match-ups that will decide BCS bowl invitations. Anyway, on to the Touchdown:

1) No. 2 Texas Tech at No. 5 Oklahoma—8:00 on ABC

Just when I was starting to go through Big 12 withdrawal, this game luckily popped up. Let’s look at what we know. Texas Tech is hotter than the sun, yet all their big wins came at home. Oklahoma has been blowing the doors off everyone, but proved against Texas that they can’t win a shootout against a semi-competent defense.

Graham Harrell is the best QB in the nation, but it goes beyond stats. He understands the importance of moving in the pocket and seems to have a psychic link with his receivers. I think it stays close for the first half, before Texas Tech just rolls.

2) No. 15 Michigan State at No. 8 Penn State—3:30 on ABC

As with most years, I jumped on a bandwagon too early, only to have it go hurtling off the road. Thanks Penn State. The reason Penn State was winning was not only because the Big 10 was a joke this year, but they played really good defense and combined it with competent offense.

Unfortunately, that competent offense has been failing them of late. Michigan State will try and run the ball with Javon Ringer, but it’s tough to do against the Penn State defense. I think Penn State wins it if they can get back to the formula that was working for them earlier.

3) No. 20 Pittsburgh at No. 19 Cincinnati—7:15 on ESPN2

I think this is the first Big East game to make the Touchdown all year. This is pretty much the story of two opposing offensive styles. Cincy likes to go to the air, yet they may have a problem since their quarterbacking crew looks like they stepped out of an episode of ER.

Pitt likes to rush the ball, but the Cincy defense is very good against the run. Cincy wins and they are pretty much going to BCS bowl. Pitt wins and they still need to face West Virginia to win the Big East. I think Cincy takes it and punches their own ticket.

4) No. 14 BYU at No. 7 Utah—6:00 on The Mtn.

I don’t know about you, but I like the idea of schools from non-BCS conferences making a run at a BCS bowl. Now, I’m not going to claim to be some expert on the Mountain West, but I know a few things. I know that Utah can score in droves, but BYU has the better offense. However, Utah has the better defense of the two.

The Utah defense is going to have to do what its done lately, which is completely shut down opponents. BYU has the QB-WR tandem that is sort of like Harrell/Crabtree light in Max Hall and Austin Collie. I think BYU can pull this one out.

5) No. 21 Oregon State at Arizona—7:00 on local channels

Who would have thought that Oregon State would control their own destiny in the Pac-10? I want to make the old “it’s better to be lucky than good” line for the Beavers, but I won’t. After their loss to Stanford in the conference opener (Stanford!), they have run rough-shot over the Pac-10.

They have one of the best young running backs in the country and a QB who won’t hurt you. Plus, they have a solid defense. While Arizona is actually a tougher team than their record suggests, I don’t think the Beavers let down this week.

6) Michigan at No. 10 Ohio State—12:00 on ABC

Wasn’t it two years ago that this game decided who would get beaten by Florida in the National Championship Game? What the hell happened to Michigan? Anyone?

Extra Point:

7) As I mentioned earlier, the Touchdown has been sufficiently Big East free all season. There is a good reason for this. The Big East makes the ACC look like the Big 12 South, yet the Big East champion (who may well be unranked) will get an automatic BCS bowl invitation.

A more deserving conference would be the Mountain West, with Utah, BYU, and TCU all in the top 20. Now, far be it from me to strip the Big East of their bowl game. Not so long ago, there were some top flight teams (last year West Virginia was a victory away from the National Championship Game).

There is a dip in talent this year and the average fan is paying the price. Not only that, deserving teams are getting left out of the mix. How about a little play-in game? The champion of the Big East and Mountain West square off in a winner take all match. No doubt the Mountain West wins. No doubt.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week 12

Trent Lane — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:19:00 -0500

What a horrible week for college football this week. We get treated week in and week out with Big 12 shootouts in prime time, yet this week we get nothing. I guess we can all look forward to the big Texas Tech-Oklahoma tussle next week. Until then, here is this week’s Touchdown.

1) No. 25 South Carolina at No. 4 Florida: 3:30 on CBS

We already know that Florida will play in the SEC Championship Game, but in order to keep hope alive for the National Championship, they need to win out.

Florida has been doing everything right since its one-point loss to Ole Miss. While nothing is a sure thing in the SEC, Florida knows what it has to do and should throttle South Carolina. Florida just seems like they are a few steps ahead of everyone else right now.

2) Boston College at No. 19 Florida State: 8:00 on ABC

Sooner or later, I’m going to get to stop hyping this FSU team. While young and dumb (at times), they are very talented. Their shaky QB situation early in the year was helped by their strong running game. However, stopping the run is one of the few things BC does well.

One of the things BC does poorly is pass the ball. I wouldn’t trust Chris Crane to successfully tie his shoes, let alone complete a pass. FSU should win this easily.

3) No. 11 Ohio State at Illinois: 12:00 on ESPN

Ohio State is like a bad penny—they keep turning up. As hope was beginning to fade for OSU, Penn State goes and loses to Iowa, giving OSU new life. They still have tough games against Illinois and Michigan though.

I don’t trust Illinois at all. They have been all over the place this season. Seriously, Juice Williams can only do so much. I think Ohio State wins.

4) No. 13 Oklahoma State at Colorado: 8:00 on ABC

While Oklahoma State was rebuffed with extreme prejudice by Texas Tech, I still think they are a very good team with major bowl chances. Oklahoma State can neither overlook Colorado nor wallow in the fact they won’t win the Big 12.

Not to downgrade what Texas Tech did, but Oklahoma State squandered chances on both sides of the ball that would have kept the game close. They need to take advantage of these chances against Colorado if they even want a chance of beating Oklahoma.

5) No. 10 Georgia at Auburn: 12:30 on ESPN Gameplan

Tell me I’m not the only one who is a little skittish about Georgia. Something about them doesn’t inspire confidence. The numbers are all there, but I just can’t put my finger on it.

Auburn, on the other hand, looks completely overmatched in most every game they are in. Their QB play is horrible. Let’s put it this way: I would trust Chris Crane over whatever joker they decide to put in there. Georgia should roll (of course, they should have rolled against Kentucky too).

6) No. 6 USC at Stanford: 7:00 on local channels

Do you think Pete Carroll is going to have any trouble getting his team ready for this game? I would just show them last year’s game over and over again.

Extra Point

7) You know, normally, near the end of the season you get all the classic showdowns that make college football worth watching. It’s sort of our reward for making it though the first couple of weeks without bleeding out of our eyes.

The last couple of weeks have been fantastic, especially with all the struggles in the Big 12 South. I just want to know how this week popped up. I was really grasping at straws after game one.

I do have to say, if you want to spend some quality time with your significant other or do some early Christmas shopping, this weekend is the week. I mean, there is no way I’m going to be able to convince the Duchess that I need to see the Ohio State-Illinois game, so I’ve resigned myself to a weekend of shopping and bag carrying. Damn you schedulers!

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Eleven

Trent Lane — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:38:00 -0500

College football is at its best when big shake-ups happen. It makes for entertaining viewing and makes you wonder things like “should there be a playoff?” and “how many replays of Michael Crabtree’s catch and score will it take before Mack Brown’s head explodes?”

I’m on cloud nine now, because since Texas Tech would beat Texas, all my other idiotic predictions have seemed to have slipped my mind. But, as the great Sidney Dean said, “Even the sun shines on a dog’s ass every once in a while.” Anyway, on with the Touchdown:

1) No. 9 Oklahoma State at No. 2 Texas Tech – 8:00 on ABC

I never thought I would say this, but the Big 12 is fun to watch. This is yet another huge matchup that has National Championship implications. Oklahoma State decided to take out their frustrations from their loss to Texas by lighting up Iowa State like a Christmas tree.

Both teams have amazing QBs and WRs, but the edge has to go to Texas Tech. This might be another “whoever has the ball last wins” game. Those are always fun. Texas Tech takes it, but it’s close.

2) No. 1 Alabama at No. 16 LSU – 3:30 on CBS

This game will be won and lost by the LSU defense. Let’s just get it out in the open and recognize the pink elephant in the room: The LSU offense is horrible. Alabama will be able to stop the run game, thereby putting the offensive attack in the hands of whoever the heck LSU decides to play at QB.

The LSU defense needs to control this game, shut down John Parker Wilson, and cause turnovers. Plus, they have the home crowd to help them out. However, Alabama should win this one.

3) No. 21 California at No. 7 USC – 8:00 on ABC

USC reminds me a lot of Florida, in that they both dropped a conference game they should have easily won, then decided “screw you all,” and started dropping the hammer on everyone (minus that hiccup against Arizona). The USC defense will harass the big question mark at QB for Cal. I personally think Longshore should get the start, since he gives Cal the best shot to win. It isn’t much of a shot, but a shot nonetheless.

4) No. 20 Georgia Tech at No. 19 North Carolina – 12:00 on ESPN Gameplan

If you told me at the beginning of the season that both these teams would be ranked when they faced each other, well, I would have said some unkind things about your mental stability.

UNC is the perfect example of what happens when you get a quality coach and give him a few years with no expectations. I think UNC is for real, unlike Georgia Tech, who I just don’t get. Watch it for the thrill of seeing a good team you didn’t know existed.

5) No. 3 Penn State at Iowa – 3:30 on ABC

You almost have to feel sorry for Iowa on this one, right after Penn State gets passed over by Texas Tech for the No. 2 spot in the BCS poll. Not that I disagree, but still. Penn State is going to go out with something to prove, and Iowa is going to be their whipping boy. You want to see why Penn State should be feared? Watch this game.

6) No. 12 TCU at No. 8 Utah – 8:00 on CBS College Sports on Nov. 6

They should just rename this game the BCS Busters Bowl. The winner of this gets a quality win and gives them a giant leap forward in the BCS bowl picture. Basically, watch this one if you want to see what all the hype is about.

Extra Point:

What a difference a few weeks makes. Remember a few weeks ago when I was railing against the SEC as a whole? Well, I’m only partially taking it back. Why? In a word, Florida.

This team is on a mission to destroy every team in its path since that loss to Ole Miss. This is a case where a loss was a good thing. If all plays out like it should, Florida will absolutely demolish Alabama in the SEC Championship Game and should claim its rightful spot in the BCS Championship Game.

My one complaint about them was that they don’t play as good as they are. They’ve gotten over that problem. So, I can now say that “yes, Florida is good and deserves its shot.” Of course, my endorsement should worry Florida fans more than anything.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week 10

Trent Lane — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:15:00 -0400

Oh man, we go all season with a few really good games, and then get knocked up last week with the OSU-PSU and Texas-Oklahoma State games. Seriously, right now, both would be in my top 10 games of the year.

I do have to say that you have to be a real fan to appreciate the defensive effort by both OSU and PSU (or completely disgusted by the offensive effort). I think I’m starting to buy into PSU, which means one thing—PSU will lose.

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 1 Texas at No. 7 Texas Tech—8:00 on ABC

Last week made me realize that you can only beat Texas by either having a reasonably competent defense or being able to outscore them in a shootout. This might be a case of the latter. Texas Tech will be the toughest test Texas has had to face.

No offense to Chase Daniel, Sam Bradford, or Zac Robinson, but no QB that has faced Texas has been able to completely capitalize on the weak secondary of Texas. Graham Harrell, however, is a much better and more competent QB. Detron Lewis and Michael Crabtree are the best WR combo in the nation (yeah, I said it!).

I’m calling it now: Texas Tech upsets No. 1 Texas.

2) No. 8 Florida vs. No. 6 Georgia—3:30 on CBS in Jacksonville

Anytime something is nicknamed “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party,” you have to put it near the top. To be fair, the winner most likely wins the SEC East and keeps its National Championship hopes alive.

Florida is one of the best teams in the nation, yet doesn’t seem to want to grab that mantle. No team should come close to them, yet that Ole Miss game mystifies me. I think it was good for them since it was a wake-up call. With everyone’s friend revenge on their side, Florida will utterly destroy Georgia.

3) No. 15 Florida State at Georgia Tech—3:30 on ABC

I never would have thought I would have put this game at number three. It either means that there is a lack of good games or FSU is better than expected (a little from column A, a little from column B).

I’m still not sure how they did it, but FSU seems to have keyed into one of the more magical things in college football: youthful enthusiasm. I love it, even though I don’t like FSU. This is a game worth watching because you’ll finally see why FSU is for real and why Georgia Tech is wildly worse than their record suggests.

4) Nebraska at No. 4 Oklahoma—8:00 on ESPN

Remember when this was a great and storied rivalry? Now, before everyone writes this one off, remember that Oklahoma is vulnerable if you have a competent defense or a high-powered offense. The defense may be suspect, but Nebraska can score. I’m not saying Nebraska will win, but I am saying they can make it interesting.

5) No. 24 Oregon at California—3:30 on ABC

You know, I always liked the Pac-10, and this one is definitely for the fans. Basically, they are battling to see which team might have a chance to upend USC for the Pac-10 championship.

Cal is going to need another strong performance from their defense if they hope to stop the running attack of Oregon and the smart QB play of Jeremiah Masoli. Basically, I think Cal should start Nate Longshore and let fly, but that won’t happen, and they’ll lose.

6) Clemson at Boston College—3:30 on ESPNU

Now, most of you are probably thinking I put this up here because I’m an incurable Clemson fan and am hoping that this year will finally be the year Clemson beats BC (you know, when it means nothing). You would be wrong.

It’s here because the Duchess scored tickets to the game, and I’ll be there rooting for my team live and in person. Here’s hoping I come back alive.

Extra Point

7) Figuring out who would be my choice in the NCG is tough. Usually, I can pick a few teams I could see in it. However, I can’t really buy into a lot of teams. Too many are flawed in too many ways. We can attribute that to parity, or we can attribute it to poor recruiting.

OSU is a perfect example. All they really need is an offensive leader at QB, and they don’t have it.

So, I sit here and try to come up with teams that I see as National Champions, and it's tough. There are no teams like USC with Leinart and Bush.

The only teams I can seriously consider are Penn State, whose only real competition was Ohio State, and Texas Tech, who hasn’t faced anyone and may very well buckle against Texas, Oklahoma State, or Oklahoma.

But if I’ve proven anything, it’s that I know very little, if anything.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Nine

Trent Lane — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:51:00 -0400

As I stated in my blog a few weeks ago, the Touchdown (and other articles) was put on hiatus due to Wedding/Honeymoon issues, as in I was both getting married and going on my Honeymoon. However, I am now back and will subject you to more insane yet slightly insightful college football ramblings.

On a side note, anyone who can guess the unnamed Caribbean island mentioned in my Honeymoon blog entry will get to pick the subject of next week's Extra Point. Happy guessing.

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 3 Penn State at No. 9 Ohio State: 8:00 on ABC

This one will pretty much decide the Big Ten champion and it’s two top 10 teams, so it’s got to be number one. Laugh if you want, but the key to this game is Penn State’s defense. Their focus needs to be stopping Beanie Wells. Penn State has an issue stopping the run.

OSU needs to slow the game down and let Wells carry the load and pound Penn State. They can’t hope to beat Penn State in a shootout, so they need to control the tempo, slow the game down, and drive it down the throats of the defense.

That being said, PSU will win by doing what they always do—overwhelming their opponent.

2) No. 6 Oklahoma State at No. 1 Texas: 3:30 on ABC

Texas just keeps getting the tough opponents. Even if they get through this game, they have to play Texas Tech on the road next week.

Anyway, in my opinion, Oklahoma State has a better shot to beat Texas than either Missouri or Oklahoma did. Why? Because Oklahoma State has a better offense than either of those teams. Oklahoma is a paper tiger, and Missouri is a one trick pony (Daniel to Macklin for six).

The problem Texas will have is that this is going to dissolve into a shootout, and Oklahoma State has nothing to lose.

3) No. 7 Georgia at No. 13 LSU: 3:30 on CBS

I have my issues with the SEC this year, but more on that later. This is going to be an ugly one. Neither team has really lived up to expectations, nor is either team solid offensively at this point. Expect both teams to rely on their running games to try to win it, but Georgia could air it out if Stafford gets his groove back.

This game will be won defensively as both are really good defensive teams. Expect a low-scoring affair.

4) No. 8 Texas Tech at No. 23 Kansas: 12:00 on ESPN

I don’t know when I got excited about the Big 12, but I’m ready to be counted as a fan. I’ll admit that I like Kansas, but this game doesn’t look good for them. They lost in the shootout that broke out in last week's game against Oklahoma, and this game has all the same markings.

Offensively, Texas Tech is sounder than Oklahoma and will fling the ball all over the field. Tech just needs to make sure it’s not looking ahead to Texas next week.

5) No. 2 Alabama at Tennessee: 7:45 on ESPN

I’m not completely sold on Alabama yet. They seem to have everything they need to win, but something doesn’t feel right. You ever get that feeling in the pit of your stomach? Maybe it’s just some bad cheese. The whole Alabama team ingesting bad cheese is the only way Tennessee has a shot to win this one.

Of course, this could be the game where John Parker Wilson finally implodes in on himself. One thing I’ve learned is that you can never be sure when it’s an SEC conference game.

6) Auburn at West Virginia: 7:30 on ESPN on 10/23

Remember when these two teams were highly ranked? What happened? Oh yeah, losses to LSU, Vandy, and Arkansas for Auburn (not to mention pitiful wins against Miss State and Tennessee), and losses to East Carolina and Colorado for West Virginia. I would laugh, but I’m a Clemson fan.

Extra Point

7) Earlier this season, I wrote somewhere that the National Championship Game would and/or should be USC against whoever made it out of the SEC.

I will now admit I was wrong, but not about USC. I’m not buying the SEC anymore. I still think it's one of the toughest conferences, but no team there would scare me if I was an opponent.

Each team in the conference is flawed in some way (just wait for the other shoe to drop in Alabama). When I say “flawed,” I don’t mean, “their secondary is a little sketchy”; I mean, “their quarterback looks like he pooed himself on the sidelines.”

The only team I can really point to that is good is Florida, but they’re schizophrenic.
I don’t know what to expect from them. Just when you are feeling good about them, they go ahead and douse their drawers against Ole Miss.

Granted, if Alabama wins out, they deserve to be in the National Championship Game, but do you really see that happening?

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Five

Trent Lane — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:45:00 -0400

I think it's official: If you don’t get pumped up watching SEC games, there is something seriously wrong. Even the Duchess was sitting on the edge of her seat for the end of the LSU/Auburn game, and she only has a passing interest in football. I may suffer a heart attack if we get week in and week out of this.

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 8 Alabama at No. 3 Georgia—7:45 PM on ESPN

Don’t let the score fool you (as much as 27-10 can fool anyone): Georgia completely manhandled Arizona State. A.J. Green was channeling Randy Moss (you know, when Moss tries), and I think Knowshon Moreno was wearing Superman’s cape when he made that dive into the end zone.

If you look at it, Georgia and Alabama have a lot in common. They both have great running backs, dynamic freshman receivers, and good quarterbacks (though I believe Stafford is better than Wilson).

However, this won’t be a barnburner. Both have very tough defenses, and this one will come down to the last play. I expect Georgia to prevail.

2) No. 22 Illinois at No. 12 Penn State—8:00 PM on ABC

Penn State’s biggest question coming into this game is going to be where Joe Paterno coaches from—the field or the press box. That’s a good problem to have.

If I were a Penn State fan, I would be more concerned about Juice Williams. He can take off when the pressure gets to him and can throw it downfield when needed. This isn’t the same guy from last year.

However, Penn State has a quick defense that will try to contain and pressure him. It should be interesting, but Penn State will pound the ball and win this one.

3) No. 24 TCU at No. 2 Oklahoma—7:00 PM on local channels

This game makes me physically ill, if only because Oklahoma fans will point to it and say, “See, a quality opponent, we deserve to be No. 2.” Yeah, sure.

Listen, Oklahoma is going to win this one, and there is one reason why: You can’t win a shootout with Oklahoma. You just can’t. You need a good defense to beat them. You harass Sam Bradford, and he’ll buckle like a belt. TCU won’t be able to do it.

4) No. 1 USC at Oregon State—9:00 PM on ESPN (Sept. 25)

USC rolls into Oregon State with everyone wondering if they can be beat. Truth be told, I’m wondering the same thing. Dismantling Virginia and Ohio State has that effect on people.

As for this game, USC is going to do what they always do: run, pass, tackle, and beat you into submission. The only question about this game is when we see backup Aaron Corp taking snaps from center.

5) Tennessee at No. 15 Auburn—3:30 PM on CBS

I would not want to be Tennessee this week. First you get beat down by Florida last week, and now you have to face an Auburn team that wants to take out their frustrations on someone due to their loss to LSU.

I’m not saying Auburn is great. They have some issues at quarterback, but their running game is superb, and their defense is nasty. Get the whirlpool ready for Jonathan Crompton because he’s going to get knocked around by Auburn.

6) Minnesota at No. 14 Ohio State—12:00 PM on Big Ten Network

Hey, Beanie Wells should be back this week. As we all know, that makes all the difference. As a side note, I almost typed that all out without laughing.

Extra Point

7) I’m saying it right now, the rankings system in college football makes no sense. I can’t provide a better solution, so don’t expect this rant to have any mind-altering equation to figure it all out. How about just using common sense?

A few weeks ago Georgia was ranked No. 2 and Oklahoma was at No. 3. Oklahoma completely thrashed Washington 55-14 while Georgia beat South Carolina 14-7. Oklahoma then jumped Georgia in the rankings.

Does that make sense? Who do you think is a tougher opponent? The only question is, “How many touchdowns would South Carolina be favored by over Washington?”

If both of these teams go undefeated and Georgia is on the outside looking in, well, there is no justice. If it’s Oklahoma on the outside, I’ll cackle with delight.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Four

Trent Lane — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 13:20:00 -0400

While I am willing to admit that Week Three wasn’t all it could have been, it sure as hell beat out the first two weeks in regards to watchability. I was pretty much in front of the TV for 12 hours straight for college football fun, much to the chagrin of the Duchess. It’s not like we’re getting married in two weeks or anything. Oh, wait a minute...

Anyway, on to the Touchdown.

1) No. 6 LSU at No. 10 Auburn—7:45 PM on ESPN

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: You have to love SEC matchups. This one’s going to be a grudge match.

You can go on and on about Charles Scott at running back, but his yards came against Appalachian State and North Texas. I could average 100 yards a game against those two teams.

In fact, I probably would have picked Auburn except for the stinker they put up against Miss. State. Yeah, the defense was great, but only a field goal from the offense? You can’t pull that crap against LSU.

This will be a close, low-scoring, defensive game. The team who makes the last mistake will lose (probably Auburn).

2) No. 3 Georgia at Arizona State—8:00 PM on ABC

This would have been my number one game if ASU hadn’t pooed the bed against UNLV. I had to look at the score a few times before I realized it wasn’t a joke.

I love this game for Georgia, because they have actually scheduled a tough non-conference opponent. No matter what happened last week, this won’t be a walk for Georgia. The one thing they don’t want is to get into a shootout with ASU—they don’t have the firepower.

ASU learned from their mistake last week, which is don’t run more than you throw—at least not with Rudy Carpenter. ASU will air it out against the Georgia secondary, and the Bulldogs better hope to get some pressure on Carpenter, or it won’t be pretty.

3) No. 4 Florida at Tennessee—3:30 PM on CBS

Normally I would give a bunch of crap to Tennessee about how they suck, but I thought the same thing last year, and they back-doored their way into the SEC Championship Game.

Anyway, Florida has lots of firepower on both sides of the field. Tennessee is going to have to try and keep Percy Harvin contained and hope that Tim Tebow starts making mistakes.

Tennessee needs to get their running game going to help Eric Crompton, because if the game is in his hands, the Vols are in trouble.

4) Boise State at No. 17 Oregon—3:30 PM on local channels

I’m telling you right now, if I were Jeremiah Masoli or Chris Harper, I would have an extra-sturdy knee brace on. God must hate Oregon QBs because if he is not making them like Akili Smith or Joey Harrington—he’s blowing out their knees.

With that said, Oregon will probably stick to the running game to make sure they don’t put too much pressure on their new quarterback. However, the Ducks need to watch out because Boise State can put up points in a hurry. If Oregon can control the tempo, they should be fine.

5) No. 18 Wake Forest at No. 24 Florida State—7:00 PM on ESPN2

I think I would be physically ill if I watched this game, but it is a bit interesting. Here’s a tip for all you teams that fell from glory: Beat up on two weak opponents and get back into the top 25 on name recognition alone. FSU did it.

I would sit here and say things like “FSU has the top offense in the country,” but they did it against Western Carolina and Chattanooga. No, seriously.

On the other side, I like QB Riley Skinner of Wake Forest. He actually led his team back to beat Ole Miss—you know, a real opponent. If Wake doesn’t win this game, and win it big, they only have themselves to blame.

6) No. 13 Ohio State at Troy—12:00 PM on Big Ten Network

Gee, you think Ohio State can handle this one? After the stink job against USC, this Trojan team is more their speed.

Extra Point

7) Did you see that smackdown USC laid on Ohio State? I’m still giddy about it. It finally exposed OSU for the fraud team they are. However, I am here to help OSU with their problem, even if I don’t like them.

The problem lies in recruiting.

Now before all you OSU fans start flipping out, OSU has a very good recruiting system, but they miss one key position each and every time: a quarterback. If you seriously think that Todd Boeckman or Terrelle Pryor are leading your team anywhere but the “also ran” column, you need some serious help.

What I’m saying is man your already good team with a good quarterback, preferably a dropback quarterback with a strong arm and leadership skills. They aren’t that hard to find.

Let’s see, you have Cullen Harper, Mark Sanchez, Curtis Painter, Todd Reesing, Chase Daniel, Matt Stafford, Matt Grothe, Riley Skinner, Colt McCoy, Graham Harrell, and John Parker Wilson. Those are just off the top of my head, and I know I’m missing some.

Put any of those quarterbacks on OSU, and you have a significantly better team that might actually be able to beat a good opponent. Or keep recruiting stiffs like Boeckman and get blown out by teams from the SEC and Pac-10. Whatever works.

The Matt Cassel Era and the New England Patriots' Karma

Trent Lane — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:31:00 -0400

I was recently reading an NFL Week Two article from a certain ESPN hack writer, who shall remain nameless, and he was writing about the Patriots/Jets game. The unnamed ESPN hack writer, let's call him Sill Bimmons, basically told us all the give up on the Matt Cassel era before it begins, and Tom Brady’s injury was due to bad karma from the Spygate thing.

Oh, were to begin. Let’s break this down without sounding too irrational and bitter.

One, I am seriously trying to talk myself into the Matt Cassel era. I continually try and forgot things about him that I would make fun of other teams' QBs for. Like the fact that he hasn’t started a game since high school or that he looked like he was playing drunk during the preseason. That stuff would just give me a headache.

I try and find solace in the fact that he was backup to two Heisman trophy winners in a pro-style offense at one of the best college-football programs. Or that he is backup to one of the best QBs in the NFL. Or that he knows the offensive system since he’s been there a few years.

Or the fact that the Patriots are masters of dumbing down an offense for QBs thrown into bad situations. This is evidenced by 2001 with Tom Brady. They stayed away from all his weakness (like the deep-out routes) and played to his strengths (like dump passes to running backs). This has got to count for something. Right? Anyone?

Two, and the part that really got me, was the fact that this was some sort of cosmic retribution for the team’s past indiscretions. WHAT A BUNCH OF CRAP. To Sill Bimmons and everyone else who believes this, there is no such thing as karma in sports. If there was, Ted Williams would have won a World Series.

Things like Brady’s injury happen just because they do. Team karma and silly superstitions by fans do not determine the outcome of sporting events, the actions of athletes on the field does. So, you don’t have to wear the same clothes, or sit in the same chair, or read the Boston Herald sports section (that’s my Dad) in order for your favorite team to win.

So, if you think the Jets are going to win because they have a better team, or because the last time the Pats' QB started a game was before his Senior Prom, or any other reason that involves the play on the field, then fine.

However, if you think the Jets will win because karma is against the Pats, well, you need some serious help.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Three

Trent Lane — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:49:00 -0400

Do you know how painfully boring Week Two was to watch? In the middle of the afternoon, I debated whether to watch the Clemson/Citadel game on ESPN360 (I ended up watching the third quarter) or Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (I watched up until the end of the second task).

I pretty much ended up zoning out during the East Carolina/West Virginia game, but I did watch the last series of the Washington/BYU debacle.

Anyway, we finally get to a fairly competitive week, even if I’ll find myself coasting until 8:00. Just for fun, I thought about completely leaving off game one, but I decided even I’m not that coy.

Anyway, on with the Touchdown.

1) No. 5 Ohio State at No. 1 USC—8:00 on ABC

Everyone seems to think this game hinges on just how healthy Beanie Wells is. Let me say this: Beanie Wells could channel Reggie Bush, and OSU would still get the beatdown.

There are two main reasons for this. One, USC is just a great team on both sides of the ball. Their offense is high flying, and the defense is hard-hitting.

Two, the OSU quarterback is Todd Boeckman. I wouldn’t trust him to make a tuna fish sandwich, let alone run my team against the best team in the nation. But if the first two weeks proved anything, I don’t exactly have a great track record in picking who will win.

2) No. 13 Kansas at No. 19 South Florida—8:00 on ESPN2 on Friday

Either both of these teams are underrated or both are overrated—there really is no in-between here. Kansas has looked impressive so far, but their competition isn’t exactly high caliber. South Florida, on the other hand, had some issues last week with Central Florida.

In my opinion, Kansas has the better quarterback in Todd Reesing, but they aren’t going to surprise anyone this year. South Florida will play them tight, but I expect Kansas to win.

3) No. 2 Georgia at South Carolina—3:30 on CBS

When all is said and done, I think that the National Championship Game should be between USC and whoever makes it out of the SEC. Georgia could very well be that team. This is the first real test for Georgia in their “heightened expectations” season, where anything less than the National Championship is a failure.

I’ll give Mark Richt credit for playing the “nobody respects you” card to Knowshon Moreno in the media, but seriously, it was just a dumb highlights piece.

I give Georgia the edge, but you never really know when two SEC teams clash, especially when Steve Spurrier is involved.

4) No. 10 Wisconsin at No. 21 Fresno State—10:30 on ESPN2

An overrated Big Ten team? That never happens (a little sarcasm for all you OSU haters out there). Is there an uglier Top 10 team than Wisconsin?

Fresno State, on the other hand, is fun to watch, even if they have balanced their offensive attack more. Plus, they actually have a competent defense, which kind of shocked me. They get credit because they’ve actually played a good opponent on the road and won, unlike Wisconsin, who played Akron and Marshall at home.

Fresno State wins and makes me think even more that they should join the Pac-10.

5) No. 16 Oregon at Purdue—3:30 on ABC

I’m putting this game here for two reasons. One, it’s an overt attempt to kiss up to the Duchess, since she’s a big Oregon fan.

Two, I think Purdue is better than they get credit for. I am a big fan of Curtis Painter and the Purdue passing attack. They did have the top offense in the Big Ten last year due to the success of Painter. They will catch someone napping on them—just not Oregon (who happens to have the top offense in the nation).

By the by, after Oregon lost a quarterback to a season-ending knee injury for the second straight year, would you really want to be a quarterback there?

6) No. 14 East Carolina at Tulane—3:00 on local channels

Who wouldn’t laugh if East Carolina took the pipe here? Come on, don’t be shy. It would be hilarious—although maybe not if you rooted for Virginia Tech or West Virginia.

Extra Point

7) Please note: If you’re an Oklahoma fan, it would be good if you stopped reading now. You’ve been warned.

All right, I was watching a halftime show on ABC (I think), and they were babbling about all the good quarterbacks in the Big 12. I slowly nodded my head, as I give big thumbs up to Todd Reesing, Chase Daniel, and Graham Harrell. However, the first quarterback they mentioned was Sam Bradford.

Um, excuse me? Someone name me the last good quarterback from Oklahoma (and so help me God if someone says Jason White). Oklahoma is a woefully overhyped team that gets exposed for their true colors when facing quality opponents, which is probably why they don’t schedule any for non-conference games.

I cringe at the thought of them making it unscathed through the Big 12 (a distinct possibility) and making it to the National Championship Game. Why? Because they’ll get blown out by USC, Georgia, or anyone else they face (minus OSU—they can’t beat anyone of quality either).

As for Bradford, here’s a phrase you may want to learn after your football career ends at Oklahoma: “Do you want fries with that?”

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week Two

Trent Lane — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:51:00 -0400

I do have to say, writing this week’s Touchdown was tough—not as tough as the ACC had it last week, but tough nonetheless. Everyone who is a straight college football fan is looking forward to the throwdown next weekend between Ohio State and USC.

In fact, let’s get through this as quickly as possible so we can get closer to next weekend.

1) Miami at No. 5 Florida—8:00 on ESPN

Rivalry games are so fun, especially early in the season. While not your regular cut-and-dry rivalry, I think this fully qualifies.

While most of the U’s players were most worried about prom dates less than two years ago, Florida has the experience and the talent. I’m not saying Miami isn’t close to resurrecting itself once again, but Florida has enough talent to just beat you into submission. Of course, it doesn’t help that Miami’s starting QB is making his debut.

2) Stanford at No. 15 Arizona State—10:07 on local networks

Woohoo, Pac-10 showdowns early in the season. Raise your hand if you’re excited.

If we’ve learned anything from last season (besides the need for a playoff), it’s “don’t sleep on Stanford.” Now I’m not expecting Stanford to light the world on fire here, but I expect them to be competitive. Rudy Carpenter should have enough firepower to get past Stanford, but the Sun Devils are going to need their ground game to help out.

3) Mississippi at No. 20 Wake Forest—3:30 on ABC

The reason this gets number three is because it’s yet another ACC/SEC clash in which the ACC is expected to win. If Clemson proved anything last week (besides how to look completely foolish), it was that the SEC is a far superior conference (duh!). However, as long as Ole Miss doesn’t wet themselves before kickoff, they should consider it a moral victory.

All kidding aside, Wake should win, considering they have more talent and are not playing with a new offense—but I can’t forget the last two Clemson games.

4) Oregon State at No. 19 Penn State—3:30 on ABC

Penn State is breaking Trent’s third rule of college football, which reads, “Pick one QB and stick with him!” The revolving door at QB is never a good thing.

The Beavers have a good offense, even if it is prone to the turnover. You don’t want to get down to Penn State, since they can move the ball. Both teams have good defenses, so it may come down to who makes the fewest errors—and that favors Penn State.

5) No. 8 West Virginia at East Carolina—4:30 on ESPN

I was ready to gloss over this game until I remembered that ECU beat Virginia Tech last week (a VT loss is always a good thing). While WVU only had about half of the total offense last week that they averaged all year, Pat White was nearly automatic when throwing the ball. This promises to be a near weekly thing since the new coach has promised more passing.

ECU has more talent this year than they did when they got thrashed by WVU last season, but don’t expect another upset.

6) All pregame shows in case they mention next week's Ohio State/USC game

Extra Point

7) The first week of college football taughtt us a few things. It taught us to always expect the upset, that USC is going to run roughshod over anyone in its path, that the ACC can’t beat quality opponents, that marshmallow schedules aren’t fun, that the injury bug can hit anyone at any time, and that it’s so good to have college football back.

Trent's Touchdown: Six Games to Watch in Week One

Trent Lane — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:32:00 -0400

Due to the Olympics, my whole sports attention was focused on Beijing. I completely forgot that other sports existed (hence why I haven’t said one word about the Red Sox or soccer). Thus, I was caught off-guard when my father mentioned the Clemson game this coming Saturday. I had forgotten that college football was right around the corner.

For those of you who know me, this means one thing: the first edition of Trent’s Touchdown. I’ll run down the week's top six matchups and throw in an extra point at the end.

Anyway, enough with the babbling—on to the Touchdown (all games are Saturday unless otherwise noted).

1) No. 24 Alabama vs. No. 9 Clemson (in Atlanta)—8:00 on ABC

Ever since Clemson got their clock cleaned by Auburn in the Peach Bowl, I’ve been looking forward to this game. We all know how good Clemson will be on both sides of the ball, but their offensive line is suspect. In order to win, they need to open holes for James Davis and give Cullen Harper time to throw. I don’t exactly trust their linebacking corps either.

Alabama had a disappointing year in terms of record, but they kept every game close and had a great recruiting class. Their running game is solid if John Parker Wilson is having accuracy problems. They’ll give Clemson a test, but the Tigers should win.

2) No. 6 Missouri at No. 20 Illinois (in St. Louis)—8:30 on ESPN

What a difference 12 months makes. Last year, no one really cared for either of these teams—now they’re both in the top 25. Missouri is led by QB Chase Daniel, who will be in the running for the Heisman Trophy. The no-huddle spread offense of Missouri should give Illinois fits.

However, Illinois will counter with Juice Williams, who either finally made the leap last year or just flashed in the pan. Williams is trying to develop himself into a pocket passer, which should be fun to watch. I have $5 that says he’s running around before the end of the first quarter.

3) Appalachian State at No. 7 LSU—5:00 on ESPN

Oh come on, I had to mention it. LSU will utterly thrash them, but after what happened in Ann Arbor, this game needed to make the list.

4) No. 3 USC at Virginia—3:30 on ABC

Despite all the things that have made me start to turn against USC, I do love their non-conference schedule this year. They travel to Virginia and then get home games against Notre Dame and Ohio State.

Once again, USC inserts yet another All-American into the QB spot, giving Mark Sanchez his due (I like Mitch Mustain). Though their offense will be a question mark until we actually see something, their defense will be top notch.

While Virginia got by last year on guile and experience, they won’t have the same luck this year, as they only have 10 starters returning. Look for USC to walk in this one.

5) Hawaii at No. 5 Florida—12:30 on ESPN Gameplan

This game comes a season too late for Hawaii. After being ridiculed for a marshmallow schedule last year, Hawaii finally reins in a real opponent, but they're without Colt Brennan and June Jones.

Florida, on the other hand, has the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and one of the best offenses in the country. While their defense is questionable, Hawaii should give them some good practice, which they will need before taking on the SEC.

6) No. 18 Tennessee at UCLA—8:00 on ESPN

Once again, I’ll give props to Tennessee for opening against a real opponent. How Tennessee won the SEC East last year is still a mystery to me, but don’t expect a repeat. With Erik Ainge gone, Tennessee hands the reins over to Jonathan Crompton, who will try to get the ball to Arian Foster and just stand aside.

Normally, I would give UCLA a chance, but since they really don’t have a QB (apologies to Kevin Craft), I really don’t expect much from them.

Extra Point

7) The extra point will be the same lament I have every year at this time. It’s tough picking good games at the beginning of the year since most colleges pick teams like St. Mary’s Nunnery as opponents.

While this does have its problems (look at Hawaii last year), most teams face no ill effects from this. While we all want the Appalachian State/Michigan replay, that only happens once in a lifetime.

That said, major props to USC going out and taking on all comers. If they win it all, no one can complain about their schedule.

Well, someone will complain, but we just won’t listen.

Nastia Liukin Was Robbed

Trent Lane — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:09:00 -0400

Location: Red Army Listening Post #37 – Beijing Municipality
Transmission: Beijing Police Department, Main Line
Time: 4:30 PM, Tuesday 19 August 2008
Transcribed and Translated By Corporal F. Xiang

Start Transmission

Male Caller: Hello, Beijing Police Department, this is Sergeant Fu, how may I help you?

Female Caller: Hello, my name is Nastia Liukin, and I would like to report a robbery.

Fu: Okay ma’am, I can help you. Can you please tell me where this robbery occurred?

Liukin: Yes, it occurred at the Gymnastics venue of the 2008 Summer Olympics at the uneven bars.

Fu: What was stolen?

Liukin: It was a small, round object, gold in color, hanging from a green sash, to be hung around the neck. It’s called the Gold Medal

Fu: Was anything left behind?

Liukin: I was left with the same sort of object, yet it was silver in color.

Fu: Do you have any idea who may have stolen you’re Gold Medal or where it may be now.

Liukin: Oh, I know. It’s currently around the neck of Chinese gymnast He Kexin and was stolen by the judges. I have a video tape of the whole incident if you want.

Fu: The tape would be helpful. Why would they steal this Gold Medal from you?

Liukin: Because they are incompetent.

Fu: That’s not really a reason. Plus, being incompetent isn’t against the law. If it were, 90% of the people would be in jail.

Liukin: But it was stolen from me! I put in a better routine, yet some judge from Australia who was probably thinking about kangaroo’s makes all the difference! Can you name a gymnast from Australia? I don’t think they even know what gymnastics is down there. That tie-breaker was crap.

Fu: True, but isn’t this judge a fully accredited and trusted member of the judging community? Didn’t you know the rules going into this?

Liukin: Well, yes, but that’s not the point. The top reward should go to the top performer.

Fu: Agreed, but you participated in an event where points are awarded based on perception and emotion. Next time, I suggest you pick a sport that is grounded in more solid rules of scoring. I hear swimming is popular.

Liukin: Why I never!

Fu: I’m going to be honest with you Ms. Liukin; nothing is going to happen here. We have been getting complaints like this all Olympics long. Listen, as much as I would like to listen to you rant all day….

Liukin: I’M NOT RANTING!

Fu: Sure you’re not. Anyway, I think I just heard someone say “Tibet” and that’s punishable by 10 years in prison, so I have to go.

Liukin: So, no gold medal for me?

Fu: Sorry. You may deserve it, but you’re not getting it.

Liukin: Alright.

Fu: Oh, one more thing. You think you could get me a date with Alicia Sacramone? I think she’s hot.

Liukin: ICK!!!

End Transmission.

2008 Summer Olympics: The First Six Days

Trent Lane — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:51:00 -0400

For those of you have haven’t figured it out from my lengthy rants, I have an addictive personality. There are certain things I just latch on to and these things are varied.

A short sampling would be sci-fi TV, apathy, and the Olympics. Oh yes, every two years, yours truly gets completely and utterly obsessed with the Olympics.

It is so bad, that before I moved in with the Duchess, I warned her that for two weeks every two years, I really wouldn’t move from in front of the TV. So today, I want to run down the various things we’ve seen so far at the Summer Games.

Swimming:
I hate to beat a dead horse here, but that 4 X 100 relay showdown between the French and the US was the best swimming match I’ve ever seen. Granted, I only watch during the Olympics, but that’s beside the point.

The US team of Jason Lezak, Garrett Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones, and…..darn it, I forget the fourth guy, it’ll come to me. Anyway, they heard what the French said about smashing them and decided to shove it down their throats.

The man of that match was Lezak, who chased down one of the best closers in the world in Alain Bernard. I was completely blown away by that. I was giving up when they made the turn for the final 50 meters. The thing most impressive about that race is that the top 5 countries all beat the previous world record.

As for Katie Hoff, who is swimming so many races you would think she’s the only female swimmer, you almost feel sorry for her. Almost. Something about her bugs me.

Maybe it’s the goggles indentation on her forehead, maybe it’s the fact she keeps popping up in every race, I don’t know. I do know that it isn’t so bad when she doesn’t win gold. Anytime she gets beaten by Natalie Coughlin is OK in my book.

And how about Brendan Hansen? What a disappointment in the breaststroke. Did you see when he….wait…..now I remember the fourth guy in the 4 X 100 relay. It was some kid named Phelps. Jim? Roger? No, it was Michael. That’s it.

You can’t really talk about Beijing without mentioning Phelps. The guy is unreal. There are really no words to describe him.

It’s like he’s made it his personal mission to tell Ian Thorpe to “shove it.” He swam the 200 butterfly with his goggles full of water and still set a world record. I’m starting to suspect we would need to take off an arm or something to even the playing field.

Oh yeah, Mark Spitz. SHUT THE HECK UP! Did you see that “do you know who I am?” interview? You were great once, but don’t keep mouthing off. Just go away. Do not compare yourself to Phelps in any way.

The only reason you want to be there is so you can jump in the spotlight during this kid’s big moment. I want Phelps to get the nine golds just so I don’t have to hear Spitz’s name anymore.

Gymnastics:
If I started writing this last night, I would have completely ripped apart Alicia Sacramone, but not today, in the harsh light of morning. I feel sorry for her.

All that hard work and sacrifice comes down to these moments and it slipped through her fingers. She let her teammates down, her fans down, and herself down. She did something that very few of us ever do.

She got up on the biggest stage and came away with a silver medal. So I say congratulation Alicia, you did your country proud.

As for the men, geez. Did anyone else see that rings competition with the Chinese gymnast? The one that the announcer said he was “silly strong”? The one where he went from a Maltese Cross into an inverted Iron Cross without swinging his legs, just using pure muscle strength? It hurts just thinking about it.

While I give Sacramone a free pass, I really can’t do the same for Kevin Tan. He sat down on the pummel horse. That’s a no-no.

I was watching his performance like a grizzled Red Sox fan prior to 2004, just waiting for the collapse. You knew it was coming, something just didn’t feel right. As soon as he took the seat, I threw up my arms and said, “I knew it.”

The reason for the difference is Sacramone was trying to do something to help her team, by trying a high risk, high reward mounting of the balance beam. Tan messed up a purely textbook move on the horse, when all he needed as a serviceable routine to keep the US in contention for the silver.

Other Sports:
Three cheers for the three US ladies who swept the women’s saber medals. Normally the sight of women swinging sabers outside the confines of a “Highlander” movie would give me the chills, but this was classic.

I had trouble deciding who to root for in the final, when it was teammate vs. teammate. I finally settled on Zagunis for some odd reason.

The best was when the three were interviewed by Bob Costas later and Zagunis got uncomfortable when Costas asked her about her boyfriend situation. Spot on Bob, spot on.

The best part of the Olympics is all the weird sports you get to watch. Nothing beats watching the French/Angola Women’s Handball match. How about a little Men’s Badminton?

You gotta love Water Polo and Rowing. Everyone can dig a little Road Cycling. The list of obscure sports is staggering.

Beach Volleyball is the best. Instead of the talking about the US Men’s team dousing their drawers against Latvia or Kerri Walsh losing her wedding ring, I have to mention one classic moment.

When Misti May let President Bush pat her on the backside, I nearly cried I was laughing so hard. No matter your feelings on the man, you have to love this. Two thoughts crossed my mind. One, thank God it wasn’t Bill Clinton. Two, it’s good to be President.

The New England Revolution Win Superliga. No, Really

Trent Lane — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 12:15:00 -0400

Last night was the final match of Superliga between the New England Revolution and the Houston Dynamo and I decided I needed to make a personal appearance.

This was predicated on three distinct factors. One, the match was only available on a Spanish language television network that I don’t think exists. Two, it was probably the only chance I would ever have to actually see a Championship live and in person. Three, I had such a great time at the first Superliga match that I attended; so I just needed to make an appearance.

For those of you who don’t know what Superliga is, the top four teams in the Mexican league and the top four teams in Major League Soccer go at it in a poor man’s version of the UEFA Cup.

Amazingly, the MLS version of the Buffalo Bills actually won the hardware this year, after beating the Dynamo in a shootout after the full 90 minutes and two 15 minute OT periods.

Instead of a cut and dry rundown on the 120 minute match (plus final shootout), I’m going to hand out awards in a manner I hope you will all find fun and entertaining (or hopelessly boring).

Best Goal of the Match: This is a tough one. On the basis of pure prettiness, you have to go with Steve Ralston’s goal in the 41st minute. It came at a nearly impossible angle and I was sure that even if you shot it, it would hit the side of the net.

On the basis of momentum, it goes to Shalrie Joseph’s goal at the 102nd minute, only four minutes after the Dynamo went up 2-1 in the extra period.

Most Annoying Fan of the Match: The Englishman who sat behind me and commentated the whole match. It was extremely annoying. My personal favorite was when he said the EPL was better than the MLS. Gee, really? Next thing you know, he was going to tell me that the sun rose in the East that morning.

Worst Clearance of the Match: No doubt about it, it goes to Rev’s defender Amaechi Igwe. The Dynamo sent a long free kick into the Rev’s penalty area, which Igwe ran on to and flicked back over his head (I have no idea why) and it just stopped dead. Dynamo Forward Nate Jacqua, who was making his run, happened upon this gift and easily put it past Matt Reis in the 18th minute.

Player of the Match for the Revs: As much as I hate giving it to the guy with the stats, it has to go to Steve Ralston. He had the pretty goal to even it at 1-1 in the first half, and then served up the assist off a free kick to Joseph’s head to tie it at 2-2.

Number two would be forward Mauricio Castro. Only played 70 minutes, but he was running all over the field, causing havoc for the Dynamo defenders. That’s the stuff you don’t see on the score sheet.

Worse Man-Crush of the Match: The Englishman behind me had a huge crush on Dewayne De Rosario. Everything he did was “pretty” or “amazing” or “outstanding.” I mean, he’s good, but this guy was about five minutes away from picking out a China pattern.

Player of the Match for the Dynamo: Man-Crush aside, I have to give it to De Rosario. He did all the things you want. He opened up the offense, he made runs, he caused fits for the defenders, and he kept going for the full 120 minutes.

Number two would be Rev’s defender Amaechi Igwe. He did everything to help the Dynamo. If the game had gone any longer, I’m sure he would have scored an own goal.

Best Quote of the Match #1: As the second OT period was winding down, I turned to the Duchess and said “If this goes to a shoot-out, it’ll be like Man U/Chelsea, except on a much, much smaller scale.” She rolled her eyes. Hey, what are girlfriends for?

Best Quote of the Match #2 – Near the beginning of the match, the aforementioned Englishman was asked by his daughter which player was De Rosario. His answer was “The one with the ponytail.” Um, there was no player on the pitch with a ponytail.

This was nearly as classic as the Trinidad & Tobago/US World Cup Qualifier I was at when some guy was praising Dwight Yorke for some play that Stern John had made. When I finally pointed out this error to him, he stayed quiet for the rest of the match. Good times.