Ohio State Buckeyes' Loss Leads to BCS Controversy; Separation Saturday Looming

The first BCS standings of the 2010 season were announced yesterday, and the complaining has already started.  From Eugene to the Plains to Boise, the moans are loud and clear; except in Norman, where Oklahoma sits on top.

While the potential is high for a season-ending controversy, there are still six weeks left in the regular season.  Anything can happen.  That being said, the best thing about the BCS is the hullabaloo it generates.  Here are two favorites.

First, what would happen if Oklahoma, Oregon and Auburn finish undefeated?  Could Auburn be left out again?  What if the Ducks ripped through the Sooners the way the Trojans ripped through the Sooners in 2004?  Yikes.

The Auburn faithful would have a legitimate objection, but there would not be any recourse—again. 

Second, what would happen if TCU, Boise and Michigan State were the only undefeated teams at the end of the season to go along with one-loss Oklahoma, Oregon and Auburn teams?  Would this situation cause the opponents of a playoff system to reconsider?

No.  The decision makers are comfortable with the BCS system, and no amount of reason will influence their stubborn belief in a failed system. 

Buckeyes Lose to Badgers

Ohio State was the second No. 1 to go down this year.  They lost to Wisconsin for three reasons:

First, the team lost composure after a game-opening kickoff return for a touchdown.  Giving up the score was bad, but not insurmountable.  Championship teams counterstrike when a blow is delivered.  Ohio State went three and out, looked awful in the process and let the game get out of hand too quickly.

Second, the Badgers were more physical at the point of attack.  Usually the Buckeyes are putting the pressure on the opponents, but the Badgers came out swinging.  They won the battle in the trenches. 

Third, Wisconsin was hungrier for the win.  The telling sign was not in the first half, but the drive after Ohio State made it 21-18.  Wisconsin’s offense drove down the field and scored a TD.  Game over.   

Buckeye faithful, take heart.  The Big Ten is top-heavy this year.  Michigan State and Iowa still play each other, and Wisconsin and Iowa play too.  All three play Northwestern, who is good for at least one upset.  The team cannot dwell on the loss.  Win and move on. 

This Week's Separation Games

October 23 is "Separation Saturday."  Three key matchups will bring the conference race picture into focus:

Game 1—Wisconsin at Iowa

The Wisconsin offensive line manhandled Ohio State’s defense, and it will be interesting to see if they can do it to a significantly better Iowa defense too.  The Hawkeyes looked vulnerable late in their game against Michigan, but overall looked solid. 

The Badgers will suffer from big game hangover, and the Hawkeyes will take advantage. 

Iowa wins 28-17.

Game 2—LSU at Auburn

There are few games that have the intensity of this battle. 

This game will test the theory that defense wins championships.  LSU is third in total defense in the FBS, sixth in rushing yards allowed.  Auburn is ninth in total offense in the FBS, sixth in rushing yards per game. 

LSU’s offense will generate little against the Auburn defense, forcing their own defense to stay on the field too long against Cam Newton and Co.  SEC officials may give Auburn a break too. 

Auburn wins 27-14.

Game 3—Oklahoma at Missouri

The Tigers are somewhat of a surprise team this year.  They are sitting alone in first place in the Big 12 North division, and they are primarily winning with defense.

Oklahoma is quietly putting a championship season together by winning some close games and blowing out other teams.  They appear to be hitting their stride at the right point in the season.

The Sooners have owned Tigers, but they are balanced enough on offense and defense to keep this a close game.  The home crowd should help. 

Oklahoma wins 30-21.