The Smoke From Moch and Powa Of Taua: Nevada Will Prevail Over BSU

The country is buzzing about this game. Even back east, folks are getting caught up in the frenzy. Nevada with its record breaking offense goes up against the most efficient QB in college FB and undefeated BSU. Two great teams on Thanksgiving weekend. What more could you ask for?

Everyone is talking about their prolific offenses. I think this game will be won on defense. Can BSU stop Nevada's unbelievable rushing game? Nevada is about to set another NCAA record. Having 3 rushers over 1,000 yards for the first time ever isn't enough. The Wolf Pack, currently at 7.8 yards per carry is about to re-set that record too. If BSU can stop the Pack on the ground, they win. I don't think they can. Not even Notre Dame, Missouri or Fresno could. The powa of Taua is just too much.

On the other hand, can Nevada blunt BSU's aerial assault? Will the secondary be able to hold Moore and Pettis to a few big plays? I'm not so sure. Kap & Co can probably deal with a few big plays, but if Nevada gives up more than two, it could be long night. Can Moch and Basped get enough pressure on Moore to limit his effectiveness? USU certainly did. I think Nevada's D line will get to Moore, especially in the second half. The smoke from Moch will cloud Moore's vision.

But turnovers, mistakes and surprises will be critical. BSU is a master of fumbles, picks and tricks. BSU has more tricks than the Mustang Ranch. The team that makes the fewest mistakes, is not caught off guard and has just a bit more defense will prevail.

A blowout either way is unlikely as is a low scoring game. A close high scoring game is expected.

Much was made of Nevada's 0-3 start. I don't think it was a harbinger of anything. You have to consider who Nevada lost to. Notre Dame at the time was fresh and ranked. Nevada was tense and overmatched. Still they managed 157 yards on the ground. Sans mistakes, the game could have been 35-21 instead of the goose egg.

Nevada gave the game away to Colorado State. Christmas came early in Fort Collins. There was no excuse for that one.

But Nevada actually had Missouri beat and lost it on a fumble and a penalty. Mizzou was also ranked at the time and still has a winning record in one of the toughest conferences.

So, Nevada's 0-3 start is less negative than it seems. I actually think it was good! After facing powerhouses like ND and Mizzou, the WAC starts to look pretty easy. BSU's linemen are not intimidating once you have gone up against ND and Mizzou and their big uglies. BSU hasn't seen a strong team since September 5th. It has been a steady diet of cup cakes.

If BSU wins, my hat is off to them! They deserve a BCS shot. But I am a Nevadan living in Boise and I smell an upset.

Both teams and coaches deserve recognition for their success this season and giving us a great Thanksgiving treat...a football game so exciting that you just can't wait for it. Go Pack.