Bearcats Radio Station Takes Shots at TOSU

These are radio lead-ins for Univ. of Cincinnati football on Cincy’s main AM station, WLW 700. They are taking major shots at Ohio State with these – it’s beautiful!

Plus, gotta love the fact that they’ve got the OSU fight song playing in the background. Whoever produced these lead-ins might get murdered. Seriously.



Listen to ten of the promos here.

-Posted by Rev. Shaw Moore

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RUSTY VS. REV: Red River Shootout Edition

The Rev's take...

To this point in the season, Texas has quietly – but impressively – built an undefeated 5-0 record and no. 3 national ranking. After an overly impressive one-loss season in 2008 (where Texas was left out of the national championship game only because of a quirk in Big XII conference tiebreaker rules), the 2009 Longhorns have picked up right where they left off last year.

Critics are quick to point out that Texas hasn’t played anyone yet – as Rusty points out, the Longhorns best win so far came against an underachieving Texas Tech team. But before you turn your nose up too far, take a look at the numbers: Texas has a top ten offense, rolling up 480 yards and 47.2 points per game. The defense? Just as good: Texas is yielding just 233 yards and 15 points per game.

Now, all of that will be put to the test in the Longhorns’ biggest game of the year against their hated rivals, the Oklahoma Sooners. Even though the Sooners already have two losses, they came by a combined two points. And that was with their 2008 Heisman winning quarterback, Sam Bradford, on the shelf with a shoulder injury. Bradford returned last week against Baylor and hung 389 yards on the Bears – and most observers say that was a bad game for him! You can easily make the argument that this team would be undefeated had Bradford not gotten injured, and you know that he’ll be ready to go for this rivalry game.

Fortunately for Texas, they’ve got a superhero of their own in QB Colt McCoy. Perhaps no other person to have ever played QB for Texas has been so aptly named for the position. The gunslinger is the heart and soul of the Longhorns, and he absolutely plays his best on the big stage. Remember, it was McCoy who outplayed Bradford in this contest last year, leading his Texas team to a win over the Sooners. McCoy has put up gaudy numbers again this year, and he will challenge OU with both his passing and scrambling ability.

Oklahoma is an extremely good team, and even with two losses, they are still in position to win the Big XII South with a win against Texas. Texas, on the other hand, has unfinished business from 2008, and they need a win to stay in the national title hunt. This is always one of the best college football games of the year, and tomorrow’s matchup should not disappoint.

Texas is a 2.5 point favorite, and I think that’s a fair line. Watch for the Longhorns to squeak by the Sooners, 33-30.

Rusty's Take...




The Red River Shootout, one of the best and most storied rivalries in all of college football. In recent years, it's been a Big 12 Championship play-in game. You have to go all the way back to 1998 to find a team other than Texas or Oklahoma that made it to the Big 12 Championship game from the South. Unfortunately for the Longhorns, it's been this play-in game that's kept Texas out of the Big 12 Championship game for a number of years in the early 2000's. In fact, since 2000 the Sooners have posted 6 Red River wins to only 3 Texas victories, and have only gone to the Big 12 title game twice (2001 & 2005).

This year coming into the weekend's big noon kick-off, Texas may find itself with another large hurdle to leap and I'm not talking about Sam Bradford. Texas's top 2 RB's, Junior Vondrell McGee and freshmen Tre Newton have combined for over half of Texas's rushing attack this season, but will be watching the action from the bench with injuries this coming weekend. Their replacements, co-starters Cody Johnson and Foswhitt Whitaker have combined for only 123 yards on 29 carries, so far. The good news is that they have combined for 7 of the Longhorns 14 rushing TD's, but they've gotta get close to the goal line before they can score.

On the other side of the ball, the Sooners injury report looks a whole lost more promising. 2008 Heisman winner Sam Bradford came back last week in a warm-up game against Baylor. He looked a little rusty, but was still able to pass for almost 400 yards in a win. I imagine with a big game against his new buddy Colt McCoy this coming weekend, Bradford will be back in full force. In last year's losing effort, Bradford tallied 387 yards and 5 TD's, but it was a poor rushing attack that really sealed the deal. This year's attack looks a bit stronger, averaging almost 200 yards on the ground per week.

Make no mistake about it. OU's got a tough contest against Texas. Texas sports a top 10 offense, and top 5 defense. But unlike Oklahoma, who has played 2 ranked opponents, Texas only real competition so far has been Texas Tech, who hasn't exactly matched its previous year's success.

Now, before you start calling ole Rusty a hypocrite for picking against the Sooners just a few short weeks ago, realize the vastly different situation. Against, Miami, the Sooners were without Bradford, halfway across the country in hostile territory against an unknown team. This week, in Dallas, they face an opponent they are all too familiar with and Bradford's 100%. I anticipate a hard fought contest, but a clear OU win. Rusty's going with the Sooners, 31-24.

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Rusty Vs. Rev: Florida Vs. LSU

Each week, HHR's Southern Gents, Rusty and Rev. Shaw Moore, will steal a page from NASCAR.com and go Head2Head and argue the winners of one of the week's upcoming marquee games.

Rev Takes LSU


For LSU, the start of SEC play has been heart-stopping to say the least. Against lowly Mississippi State, the Tigers needed a spectacular punt return for a TD and a last-minute, goal line stand to hold off the Bulldogs. Then, last week against the Bulldogs from Georgia, LSU got the biggest, most undeserved early Christmas present in the 2009 season when the refs handed out a completely bogus excessive celebration penalty on UGA wideout A.J. Green in the closing minutes of that game. I don’t know what exactly was excessive about the celebration, but the penalty did move LSU into great field position for a winning TD run by Charles Scott.

It certainly hasn’t been pretty – but in all reality, SEC football rarely is. The important thing for LSU is that they are still undefeated and keeping pace with Auburn and Alabama in the West. And while their first two SEC games haven’t been picture perfect, they’ve got a great shot to polish their image with Florida rolling into town this week.

What’s astonishing about LSU and Florida that the winner of this game has gone on to win the last three BCS championships. Now consider that Florida has been an odds-on favorite to make it to the championship since the start of the season, those hopes would have been in major jeopardy had this game been played last week. Human battering ram Tim Tebow was battered himself, sidelined with a concussion he received against Kentucky. As for the rest of the team, they were all fighting the effects of a flu virus that apparently spread through that locker room like the plague in Middle Ages Europe. Fortunately for Florida, last week was their bye week, so they got a week to recover and prepare for the biggest game on their 2009 schedule.

Still, with that week off, there are lingering doubts as to Tebow’s condition and availability. He’s apparently still a game-time decision, and it’s anybody’s guess how well he could play coming off the concussion. Keep in mind, Tebow is usually the one handing out the punishment. Now with soup for brains, it will be interesting to see if Tebow is able to keep that same aggressiveness that has been his trademark these past 3 ½ years.

Tebow’s injury status aside, LSU will still be up against their biggest challenge to date. The Tigers have been positively horrible on offense – as a unit, they rank 99th out of 120 teams. It doesn’t make matters any easier considering Florida has the number one ranked defense in the country. I don’t expect LSU to score much at all on offense against UF, so special teams will be absolutely critical for the Tigers. Mighty-mite Trindon Holliday will have to have a big game returning kickoffs and punts to maintain manageable field position for LSU. Plus, he’s got the combination of speed and elusiveness that makes him a threat to take one to the house at any time.

While LSU may be slightly less talented overall than Florida, they do have one major factor working in their favor: the Tigers are damn-near unbeatable at home. The crowd at Death Valley on Saturday nights can be a crazy deranged mob, and I mean that in the nicest way possible. Mix in a chance of rain and way to much whiskey in the stands, and you know it will be the most inhospitable environment Florida will face all year. I’m calling this one for LSU: 17-14.

Rusty Takes the Gators


While the college football world tries to read the tea leaves and determine if His Excellency Tim Tebow will start tomorrow against the LSU Tigers, Rusty isn’t going to worry about it. With or without Tebow, the Gators are still the best team in college football. Tebow's good (see an earlier post before the game against Tennessee), but he's not everything. The Florida offense has not shown any real weakness this year, scoring less than 40 points only once; a 23-13 win against Tennessee. In the other 3 games, Florida has tallied an amazing 159 points.

By facing cupcakes the likes of Troy and Charleston Southern, Urban Meyer's had a prolonged preseason to get his team warmed up and ready for the serious play in the SEC. As the Rev said, the winner of this game has gone on to win the BCS the last several years. Make no mistake about it, the coaches, players and everyone involved know that. So, while LSU's had to battle to get here, Florida's bowled over a few opponents and is hitting 4th gear coming into this weekend's game.

The Florida offense ranks #3 in the country, amassing an average of 526 yards a game. When the Gators make it into the red zone, they score over 90 percent of the time, and over two thirds of the time it's for 7. These boys from the Swamp know how to score. Now, granted, Tebow has accounted for a considerable portion of that offense, but it's not the passing attack that's propelling the Gators to the top. Florida is only ranked #58 in passing efficiency, but the Gators possess the #1 rushing attack with two great backs carrying the load with Tebow. Sophomore Jeff Demps and Junior Chris Rainey have combined to average well over 100 yards a game. Against a rushing defense that's giving up over a hundred yards every week, I would imagine this dynamic duo to keep racking up respectable numbers against the Tigers.

On the other side of the ball, Florida's been even more dominant. The Gators are bringing the #1 Defense in the country into Tiger Stadium tomorrow night. This is a defense that is giving up less than 215 yards of offense a week. Opposing teams have only seen double digits once against Florida, and that was Tennessee who only scored 13. Finding the end zone is going to be tough for LSU, no matter how many screaming Cajuns are bussed into Baton Rouge.

So, with an offense that's just hitting it's stride, a defense that able to crush opponents, I expect with or without Tebow, the Gators will win this weekend on their way to a 3rd national title. Florida wins 24-17.

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Separated at Birth: Ryan Franklin, Murderball

From CR Dunbar to HHR's resident Cards fan, Rev. Shaw Moore:

"Did I see that the guy from Murder Ball is a relief pitcher for the Cards? Franklin?"

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Rusty Vs. Rev: Miami Vs. OU

Each week, HHR's Southern Gents, Rusty and Rev. Shaw Moore, will steal a page from NASCAR.com and go Head2Head and argue the winners of one of the week's upcoming marquee games.

Rev Takes the Sooners


I respect what Miami is doing and I’m glad they’re climbing their way back to respectability. You’ve got to give them credit for playing such a daunting early opening schedule – 4 ranked teams in their first 4 games is ridiculous! However, don’t count me as one of the kool-aid drinkers that thinks this team is a serious national power or title contender just yet.

Consider: the ‘Canes were celebrated for knocking off Florida State, but that just doesn’t mean anything anymore. FSU might be the most bipolar team in college football – on one hand, they absolutely blitzed BYU, blasting the Cougars 54-28; on the other hand, the ‘Noles barely survived (at home) against FCS team Jacksonville State, and then they end up losing (again, at home) to South Florida. In those two games, Florida State scored a total of 26 points. That’s another way of saying they’re terrible.

The other marquee win on Miami’s schedule came against Georgia Tech. Again, I don’t know how much that means. Georgia Tech shocked the ACC with their option-attack last year, catching many teams by surprise – Miami included. Against Miami this year, the GT scheme looked to be figured out - Miami’s athleticism and speed advantage neutralized the Yellow Jackets’ offense from the start. Tech’s got a nice team, but their offense is completely one-dimensional - after getting down early, there wasn’t a chance the Jackets were coming back.

All you really need to know about Miami is found in their losing performance against Virginia Tech last week. You could say that Miami was the superior team talent wise in their first two games; against the Hokies, they clearly were not. Predictably, Virginia Tech mopped the floor with the ‘Canes, 31-7. Miami couldn’t move the ball on offense and definitely couldn’t stop anything on defense.

And that was against a team inferior to Oklahoma. Simply put, the Sooners are a match-up nightmare for Miami. They’re big, just as fast, strong, score in bunches, and play defense like crazy … which is crazy when you think about it, considering they’re a Big XII team...

The obvious elephant in the room for the Sooners is the loss of last year’s Heisman winning QB, Sam Bradford. Bradford was hurt in OU’s opening season game against BYU, which the Sooners lost 14-13. Clearly, that game was a clunker for OU – it was their first game of the year, at a neutral site, and their QB was banged up to boot. So throw it out.

Redshirt freshman Landry Jones has stepped in for Bradford and will start against the ‘Canes. While he obviously showed a lack of polish against BYU, he and his offensive mates have gone absolutely crazy since, ringing up 64 points on Idaho State and 45 points on Tulsa. In the win against Tulsa, Jones passed for a school record 6 TDs – which is crazy, considering past Heisman winning QB Jason White or Bradford himself has never accomplished that feat. Equally impressive, the defense has recorded two straight shutouts, allowing a measly 156.5 ypg and recording 5 takeaways over the two games.

Two years ago in Norman, the Sooners absolutely pasted Miami 51-13. Miami has the luxury of playing in front of the home crowd this year and I expect the game will a bit closer this time around. Unfortunately for the ‘Canes, the result will be the same. Look for the Sooners to win going away, 35-13.





Rusty Says the U is Back

First, let me apologize to fellow HHRer, DC Special Agent Blue Pulaski, a diehard Sooner’s fan, but the whole 2004 Jason “Knee-less Wonder” White Heisman debacle has forever put a sour taste for OU in Rusty’s mouth. C’mon, Philip Rivers, anyone? But I digress. Saturday’s match-up between the #8 ranked Oklahoma Sooners and the resurgent #17 Miami Hurricanes is a great match-up of two powerhouse programs, one on the rise, the other teetering on the precipice of decline. 0-5 in BCS bowls since 2003, sheesh!

Miami’s entry to the ACC was supposed to bring football strength to the nation’s premiere basketball conference. Instead, Miami has struggled mightily with a horrific helmet swinging melee a few years back that left the Hurricanes at the absolute bottom of the barrel of respectability. This year however, Miami is showing some of the play that made them one of the better teams in the first part of this decade, and it all starts with quarterback Jacory Harris.

Harris has been putting up great numbers against solid defenses so far this year. Over 3 games, Harris has a respectable 152.6 quarterback rating. He’s completing almost 60 percent of his passes, and has thrown for at least 150 yards in each game. His worst game was his most recent, a loss at Virginia Tech. Playing against a top 10 pass defense in the pouring rain on the road is a tough challenge, especially in Lane Stadium. This week, the Hurricanes get to come back to sunny south Florida against a secondary that has allowed opposing teams to complete more than 50 percent of its passes, including over 300 yards in a season opening loss to BYU. Facing the Sooner secondary at home, and wanting to get back to form, I expect a big game from Harris.

On the opposite sideline will NOT be Heisman winner Sam Bradford. After practicing all week, Coach Stoopes decided to go with freshman signal caller Landry Jones. Bradford’s recovering from a shoulder injury suffered in the season opening loss against BYU. Now, Landry had a whale of a game last week throwing for six touchdowns, but that was against Tulsa. Don't expect him to be able to do the same against Miami on the road.

Miami is also rounding the final turn in one of the toughest schedules to start the season. Oklahoma is Miami’s fourth consecutive ranked opponent, the second straight team in the top 10. The fact that Miami’s offense is averaging almost 380 yards per game against ranked opponents speaks to the Hurricanes offensive prowess. Meanwhile, the Sooners have posted respectable numbers, but against sub-par competition, BYU, Idaho State and Tulsa.

Lastly, let’s also not forget that BYU beat Oklahoma, and then lost to Florida State a team that lost to Miami. So, just looking at the who-beat-who line, Miami is the clear favorite in this game. With Jacory Harris at the helm, expect Miami to continue its trek up the hill of college football with an upset win over Oklahoma on Saturday. Miami wins 24-17.

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Rusty Vs. Rev: Penn State Vs. Iowa

Each week, HHR's Southern Gents, Rusty and Rev. Shaw Moore, will steal a page from NASCAR.com and go Head2Head and argue the winners of one of the week's upcoming marquee games.

Rev Picks the Nittany Lions.


You think Penn State will be fired up for the Hawkeyes come Saturday? Just one year ago, the Nittany Lions were riding high in the middle of the season after going into Columbus and beating Ohio State. Penn State was undefeated, atop the Big Ten, and squarely in the conversation for the national title hunt. Then, an ill fated trip to Iowa City …

Iowa, 5-4 entering last year’s game, upset previously undefeated Penn State 24-23 on a late field goal, dooming the Lions to a share of the Big Ten title and a beatdown at the hands of USC in the Rose Bowl. Though Penn State lost last year’s game, the numbers indicate they didn’t play too terribly. PSU won the time of possession battle, outgained the Hawkeyes for the game, and tied the turnover battle at two apiece. The only problem: they walked away with only field goals on multiple trips into the red zone. They had the chance to put Iowa away for good, and they didn’t do it.

Fast forward to this year. We don’t know much about either team: The Lions are the #5 team in the country and 3-0, but those wins have come against softies Akron, Syracuse and Temple – all of whom are outside the top 100. Likewise, Iowa comes in with a 3-0 record – but that’s because they barely snuck by Northern Iowa in week one, blocking not one but two No. Iowa field goal attempts at the end of the game.

What we do know is this: super QB Darryl Clark and RB Evan Royster are back for Penn State. There’s arguably not another offensive tandem as important to their team’s success in all of college football. Clark has played well so far this year, with 8 TDs and an 11.6 per completion average. Royster has been consistently good too, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and 3 TDs to his credit.

Iowa will not be able to counter with offensive superstars of Clark and Royster’s caliber. Departed Hawkeye RB Shonn Greene, who ran for over 100 yards in Iowa’s win last year, is in the NFL. QB Ricky Stanzi and freshman RB Adam Robinson will have to pick up the slack. They’ve played very well in the early season, but the always stout Penn State D promises a much sterner test than they’ve faced thus far.

With revenge on their mind, you can bet the Lions and the 100,000+ fans that will pack Beaver Stadium will be ready to go on Saturday. Expect Penn State to roll, 24-13.

Rusty Picks the Hawkeyes.


Revenge, white-out, national title spoiler; these are words the Hawkeyes could care less about, in fact they actually may work in their favor. Iowa is the clear underdog in this week’s game against #5 Penn State, but don’t tell that to the boys in black and gold. Since beating Penn State last year, thereby spoiling the Nittany Lions national title hopes and an undefeated season, Iowa has not lost. They came close to start the season, but the football gods smiled and they prevailed.

So much is being made in State College and nationally about Penn State seeking revenge for last year. The Hawkeyes will let them talk about revenge all they want. Meanwhile, they’ll focus on playing good football, which is what they’ve been doing of late.

If Iowa’s to upset Penn State for the second straight year, they’ll need to rely on their secondary to stop Daryll Clark. Sophomore cornerback Tyler Sash is one of the best in the country. Already this year, he has 4 interceptions, gaining over 100 yards on the ground after the pick. Add that to the fact that the Iowa secondary is the best in the nation, limiting opposing quarterbacks to a measly 48% passing efficiency, and you can see how throwing the ball is not going to be easy for Penn State.

The weather should further add to Iowa’s chances for success. The forecast is calling for cool showers at kickoff. This means running the ball is going to be key. With two backs both averaging over 4 yards a carry and multiple TD’s, the Hawkeyes have found a running game, which was a question mark coming into the season having lost last year’s feature back to the NFL.

So, with a stingy secondary and a strong rushing attack, Iowa’s got the tools to win in raucous Beaver stadium. However, if they cannot contain Clark or have to rely on their own passing game to come-from-behind, it could get ugly for the visiting team.

A quick glance at the statistical categories shows a relatively even match-up. Neither team is a stand-out on either offense or defense. This bodes well for an underdog. Penn State relies more on passing the ball, Iowa on running the ball. My sense is that this will be a hard fought game in the trenches, an old style Big 10 battle with a score that reflects that. Rusty says, 13-10 Hawkeyes.

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Rusty Vs. Rev: Florida Vs. UT

Each week, HHR's Southern Gents, Rusty and Rev. Shaw Moore, will steal a page from NASCAR.com and go Head2Head and argue the winners of one of the week's upcoming marquee games.

Rev Pick the Vols.


Florida has won four straight against Tennessee, including a 59-20 romp over the Vols last year in Knoxville. For those of us who’ve watched SEC football for most our lives, I think we can all agree that the world was a better place when this was an actual hot-blooded rivalry. So allow me to send a big “THANK YOU” to Vols coach Lane Kiffin for doing the unthinkable: calling out Urban Meyer and the Gators. As I write, I’m sure the Gator faithful are loading up on the brown water in preparation for Saturday’s big game.

Though Kiffin has next to no standing in the SEC, I like the fact that he’s trash talking Florida. Clearly, the Tennessee fan base is depressed – except for a freak appearance in the SEC title game, the last four or five years of the Phil Fulmer regime were enough to make ole’ Smoky howl in disgust. Vols fans need something to cheer about, or at least a leader to rally around.

On the other hand, it’s entirely possible that Kiffin’s remarks weren’t as innocent as that. From Athens to Baton Rouge, the hatred for the Gators is near universal – so give Kiffin a little credit for saying what everyone else in the league thinks, but would never dare say.

Clearly Florida is the superior team heading in to Saturday’s matchup, led by Mr. Universe, Tim Tebow. That doesn’t mean that the Vols don’t have a chance. I might be one of the (very) few who believes this, but I think the Vols are going to give the Gators a pretty good fight on Saturday.

Tennessee’s obvious strength is their defense. The Vols sport their own Mr. Universe, of sorts, in All-American safety Eric Berry – he’s one of the premier defensive talents in the country, and he won’t hesitate to blow up any ball carrier if given the chance. Though the Vols lost last week vs. UCLA, you can’t fault the D – they yielded only 186 total yards and four field goals to the Bruins. Plus, with former NFL defensive savant Monte Kiffin calling the shots, I think Florida’s gimmick spread offense could be in for a challenge it hasn’t seen for quite some time.

The offense, well … that’s another story. QB Jonathan Crompton was highly regarded coming out of high school, but he has fallen far short of his billing so far in college. He was simply atrocious against UCLA last week (13/26, 93 yards, 3 Int’s), almost single-handedly tanking the game for UT. He’ll get his shot to do better this week – Crompton is sure to see seven- and eight-man fronts from Florida, who I expect will load up to stop the run (UT backs Montario Hardesty and Bryce Brown combined for 40 carries last week). Quick, intermediate routes should be there for Crompton; but after last week’s performance, it’s anybody’s guess whether he’ll be completing those passes to UT receivers or to Florida defenders.

All that aside, it was just a year ago that Ole Miss marched into the Swamp and upset Florida. I think it can happen again here. Tennessee has to get better production out of their offense this week and not turn the ball over so carelessly. Tennessee rang up 63 points in week one against Western Kentucky; obviously they’ll face a much, much more talented foe this week, but you know there is some talent on that side of the ball. I expect the UT defense to play as well as any unit the Gators will face this year, and if they can force some turnovers of their own – look out! Lane Kiffin better start learning the words to Rocky Top, because I’m calling the upset special: 28-26 in favor of the Vols.


Rusty Takes Tebow.
























Ole Rusty knew the Rev, or All-In as he's known in other circles, was a gambler, but this is just insanity. Thinking that UT has a snowball's chance at beating Florida, especially in the Swamp, makes as much sense as a screen door on a submarine. Why, you may ask? I've got 1 word for you, TEBOW!!!! This kid is good. He's like Jesus, Buddha, Muhammed, and Obama all wrapped up in one package. He throws TD's, he runs for TD's, he teaches Sunday School, he wins Heisman's, I think he even does your taxes.

In addition to Tebow on offense, the defending national champion Gators brought back all 11 starters on defense. On the offensive side of the ball, one of the few big losses was star wideout Percy Harvin, who's now playing ball on Sundays. His loss does hurt, but with so many other weapons, including Tebow (I really cannot mention him enough) and a stout defense, Florida should easily be able to handle Tennessee. At the running back position, Florida's got a cadre of talent and they all get to run behind of the best offensive lines in the NCAA.

It's quickly easy to see why Florida's got the #1 offense in the country. In Florida's first two games against Charleston Southern and Troy, they chalked up an amazing 118 points, while the defense only gave up 9. They are fast, big, and able to run up the score, quickly.

Now, as if going down to the swamp to play the Gator behemoth isn't enough of a challenge, Tennessee decided they'd get into a war of words and hurl some verbal footballs down to Gainesville, too. Now, if you've gotta go climb a tree, does it make sense to stir up the hornet's nest hanging from the branch, first?

So, make no mistake about it, Urban Meyer will have his boys more than ready, and the Swamp will be jumping come Saturday. Tennessee's got a new coach, a questionable quarterback, and has to go on the road to one of the toughest places to play against the #1 team in the country with JesuBamahammeda at the helm. Sorry, Rev . . . the Gators win this one, and win it big.

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Rusty Vs. Rev: Va Tech Vs. Bama

Each week, HHR's Southern Gents, Rusty and Rev. Shaw Moore, will steal a page from NASCAR.com and go Head2Head and argue the winners of one of the week's upcoming marquee games.

Rusty Takes the Hokies

Virginia Tech remains the class of the field when it comes to the ACC. Last year, the Hokies embarrassed themselves with an early season loss to ECU in Charlotte. Not this year, believe-you-me. Beamer will not let his squad repeat such a disaster. Tyrod Taylor returns at quarterback for VT, and this year the job is his. Taylor began to really come on strong towards the end of the season, and without a potential QB controversy, he will certainly continue to excel. Add that to the fact that VT is able to produce season after season of stout defenses - this year they return seven starters - and Alabama's not going to have another Clemson performance to deal with for this year's opening game.


A potential area of concern for VT is at the running back position. Darren Evans broke the ACC rushing record as a freshman last year. This year, though, the sophomore will watch from the sidelines, as he suffered a torn ACL in last month’s practice. With Evans on the sideline, the Hokies will turn to a cadre of unproven talent to fill the backfield.

Taylor should have a plenty of receivers to throw the ball to, though. The top 5 receivers from last year’s team return for 2009, which gives the normally run oriented Hokies another angle of attack on offense.

As usual, the special teams will be quite special. Expect a full blown attack of Beamer ball in hot-lanta. They block, they kick, they run’em back. The precision and ferociousness of Beamer ball should give the Tide a few fits. VT will also rely on a senior punter who’s got a knack for pinning teams inside the 20; he did it over half the time last year.

An ACC title and a solid win in the Orange Bowl culminated the Hokies season in 2008, and with many of the key players returning, there's already buzz in Blacksburg about a repeat of the '99 season and a possible shot at the national title. Getting past the Tide will be crucial in that effort, and that's why Beamer will be ready for Nick Saban and company come this weekend.

Rev Takes the 'Tide

In year two of the Nick Saban regime, Alabama stormed through the SEC West and reached the SEC Championship game, where they lost to eventual national champion Florida. It’s safe to say that expectations are again sky-high in Tuscaloosa for another strong run through the SEC and a possible berth in the BCS title game.

The expectations of a rabid fan base aside, question marks abound for Alabama on offense. Not only will the Crimson Tide will be replacing seven starters from a year ago, but they enter Saturday’s game with serious doubts as to the availability of star wideout Julio Jones and starting running back Mark Ingram. Jones and Ingram accepted a free Gulf Coast fishing expedition earlier this summer, and the university is still awaiting word by game time to determine if the duo’s fishing expedition ran afoul of any NCAA bylaws. Granted, taking a free fishing expedition isn’t exactly like accepting hookers and cash … but since the NCAA only selectively enforces its own rules, it’s anybody’s guess as to the availability of these two come Saturday.

And if free fishing expeditions don’t boil your blood, what happened to DE Brandon Deaderick earlier this week definitely should. Deaderick was shot in the arm on Monday night in an apparent robbery attempt outside of his apartment. Deaderick, one of 9 returning defensive starters, and is probably the Tide’s best pass rusher. Though his injuries do not appear to be life threatening, I’m guessing he will not be cleared to play against Virginia Tech.


All the controversy aside, don’t forget that ‘Bama is still loaded – particularly on defense. As mentioned above, the starting D has a ton of starters returning off a unit that ranked sixth nationally a year ago in total defense (13.0 ppg, 256.9 ypg). Mix in the tricky blitz packages Nick Saban is known for, and you know the pressure is going to be a lot to handle for the Hokies. And while the offense might not have the star power of the defense, just know that the Crimson Tide offense will do enough to get the job done. ‘Bama loves the power running game; it’s not flashy, but it will allow the Tide to dominate field position and time of possession.

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Pitino: The Media is a Bunch of Rudipoo, Candy-asses

Since details of his dirty nasty affair with local skank Karen Sypher have been made public, the …drip…drip…drip… of negative press coverage has quickly overwhelmed Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino’s carefully crafted image as a successful basketball coach and community leader.

Clearly Pitino has had enough. At a hastily called press conference yesterday afternoon, Pitino had a simple message for everyone covering the story:

"Know your role...and shut your mouth."

I think Rick Pitino just tried to have his own "Rock" moment.


For those not following the story, the Louisville police department earlier Wednesday made public more taped conversations they made of their interviews with Sypher. This obviously remains big news locally because 1) Rick Pitino is one of the most recognizable figures in the state, and 2) we just don’t get good sex scandals like this everyday in Kentucky. And everyone loves a good sex scandal.

The problem is that Pitino would just rather you not hear, read or see what is included on those tapes. So he came out breathing fire against reporters for repeating "lies" about him, told the press how to do their jobs, and basically tried to intimidate the media into not releasing the details of what Sypher had to say about him in the tapes.

At least it’s clear to me that Pitino understands the first lesson of public relations: when your penis gets you in trouble, blame the press.

In spite of that, it’s hard to lose sight of the fact that it was Pitino who had after-hours sex on a restaurant table with a woman he had just met, gave that woman money which apparently was used for an abortion, and then the same woman turned around and married his close friend and longtime staff assistant. Whether they would admit it or not, I think most people are dying for more juicy details on the case whether those details are truthful, somewhat truthful, or complete bald-faced lies. Basically we’re all a bunch of hungry little gossip mongers that love a scandal.

So I ask: How could the media not cover this story?

Nonetheless, I took away from the presser that Pitino still feels he needs to reassure a jittery fan base and wavering recruits that he was going to fight, leaving no question he intends to stay on as coach. My personal favorite quote from this afternoon: "All of this has been a lie. It’s a total fabrication of the truth - except what I’ve told you."

I wonder if that’s what he told his family.

It was Pitino – not the press – that created this mess in the first place. Only time and a forgiving, forgetful public will get him out of it. No matter how bad this situation has been on Pitino personally or how hard it is for his friends and family to cope with his indiscretions, raking the media over the coals for doing what they are paid to do seems pretty foolish and self-serving at this point.

-Posted by Rev. Shaw Moore

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Rev Picks 'Em: Week 13

WEST VIRGINIA (-7) at Louisville: Since joining the Big East just a few short years ago, this game has turned into one of the premier rivalries in the conference. Ok, I know it’s Big East football and you could probably care less. But seriously, even though both teams carry less than lackluster records into this matchup, you can bet that this will be a very hard-hitting game. If anything, the post-game shenanigans should be interesting:


By the way, Louisville needs a win against the ‘Eers to reach 6 on the season, and most likely will need a win against Rutgers next week to receive any bowl consideration. My guess? They’ll lose both to finish 5-7. He may be Satan incarnate, but things seemed a whole lot better just two short years ago when Bobby Petrino was at the helm for the ‘Cards …

Tennessee at VANDERBILT(-3): Consider this: It is entirely likely that Tennessee could close out the 2008 season with back-to-back losses to Vandy and Kentucky. In case you’re keeping score at home, that would leave the Vols at 3-9 for the year. Which, speaking of …

Michigan at OHIO STATE (-20 ½): Michigan is DEFINITELY going 3-9. Even Vegas has given the proverbial bitch-slap to Michigan - the Buckeyes are laying 20 ½ points to the Wolverines. By some accounts, that’s the largest spread ever in this rivalry. But hey, if you’re a Michigan fan, don’t dare complain about it: coach Rich Rodriguez thinks you should “get a life”.

NORTH CAROLINA STATE (+11) at North Carolina: Upset alert: I’m calling this game for the Wolfpack. Led by Russell Wilson, one of the best passers in the ACC, NCSU has gotten on a bit of a hot streak of late. Plus, the Wolfpack sport a stellar 3-0 record against in-state opponents, having beaten East Carolina, Duke and Wake Forest. A win vs. the rival Tarheels would do wonders for the folks in Raleigh, and leave them just one win short on the season from bowl eligibility.

Stanford at CALIFORNIA (-9): Stanford hung tough for a half last week vs. USC, but that may be because they are apparently kryptonite to the Trojans. Otherwise, Stanford is just another pedestrian team in the PAC-10. Cal really isn’t that much better, but I’m taking them here since the game’s in Berkeley. Really, this pick ‘em thing isn’t that scientific.

#17 Michigan State (+15 ½) at #7 Penn State: How dreadful can this game shake out for Penn State? Several weeks ago, they were looking at this matchup as their ticket to the national championship game – now they need a win just to keep their spot in the Rose Bowl. I think two touchdowns is too much to spot the Spartans, so I’m going to take the points here, but I still like the Lions to win the game. And for their sake, I hope they do – they’ve had a great season, even though the rest of the Big Ten is atrocious this year.

FLORIDA STATE at #22 Maryland (+1 ½) (as described with by Rusty): Trying to pick the winner of this game is like trying to pick the winner of a butt kicking fight between Rambo and Rocky. Maryland's been a solid football team in College Park this year, having amassed a 6-0 record, but the Terp's face quite the superior opponent this coming Saturday. Florida State has the best offense and defense in the ACC, statistically. Although, they've struggled at times with a two QB system behind a weak offensive line, they are a solid football team and improving. Maryland on the other hand has got one of the best running backs in the leauge with Da'rel Scott (that's not a typo). The Seminoles might look better on paper, but Maryland's on top of the ACC and a win tomorrow followed by a road win against BC next week would send the Terps to Tampa and help cool the embers under the big boy's seat. This all means, this game will come down to heart. Who wants it more. This may give Florida State a slight edge with it's off-the-field story this week. Safety Myron Rolle is being interviewed for a Rhodes scholarship Saturday afternoon before flying to join his team for the 2nd half of the game. The fact that FSU has a positive academic story could do wonders for the team's motivation, or the world could implode because the team known for 5 finger discounts at Dillard's has recruited smart kids. Regardless of the outcome, it'll be a hard fought game in the chilly DC suburbs, but look for a close Seminoles victory.

#16 Brigham Young at #8 UTAH (-7): Utah, the original BCS crashers, would be right back in the major bowl picture with a win against rival BYU. Interestingly, I like that these kinds of rivalry games have kitschy nicknames: For instance, this game is dubbed “the Holy War.” That would probably raise hackles for some reason or another in more politically correct corners of the country, but this is Utah. No one really knows – or for that matter, wants to know - what goes on in Utah, so I guess we can all collectively shrug it off.

#21 Oregon State (+2 ½) at ARIZONA: People are still dogging USC for losing to Oregon State, but consider this: OSU’s tied with the Trojans atop the PAC-10 standings. And if the Beavers win this week and next week against rival Oregon, Oregon State would be the team to get the conference’s spot in the BCS. Of course, you could just as easily consider that last sentence the kiss of death for Oregon State and watch them drop their last two to finish 7-5.

#20 Pittsburgh at #19 CINCINNATI (-6): Needless to say, this is the biggest game in the history of UC Bearcat football. Of course, they don’t have much of a history aside from a crumbling relic of a stadium, but that’s beside the point. A win against Pitt would clinch the Big East conference championship for the Bearcats, not to mention a spot in the school’s first ever BCS bowl game. Cincy’s really no joke – they have 6 starters on D that likely will get drafted, and it doesn’t really matter who they put in at QB (they’ve played 5 QBs on the season), they always get the job done.

Interestingly enough, if you were ever wondering what a “bearcat” is, try this on for size:

"A Bearcat resembles somewhat to a bear in physical appearance, though on closer observation it looks like a small bushy dog. Its average length is about 60-96 cm and weighs around 9-14 kg. It has small round ears and black round eyes. The body of the animal is covered with thick black fur. Its most attractive feature is its long bushy tail, ranging as long as 55-90 cm."

One of life’s great mysteries solved. I’m glad I looked that up.

#2 Texas Tech (+7) at #5 OKLAHOMA: (courtesy of Big XII expert Greg in St. Louis) This week’s Big 12 “Game of the Year” will directly affect the outcome of the Big 12 South, The Heisman Race, and who claims the Big 12’s slot in the National Championship game. Tech has put the points on the board this year, they have a solid O-line, major skill at QB and WR, and their “bend, not break” defense has done the job when called upon. The Sooners are trying to buck their trend of bad play in big games over the past few years and even in the Red River Shootout this year. However, since that loss to Texas they have destroyed their opponents to the tune of 63.3 points per game. One more stat in the Sooners favor, 60-2 at home under Bob Stoops – simply put, you don’t go into Norman and come out victorious. In the case of two hot teams that are evenly matched, go with the home team for sure. Boomer Sooner!

Rev Picks 'Em: Week 12

Too bad Texas Tech and Oklahoma aren't playing this weekend, because there is NOTHING of consequence being contested this weekend. Sure, we could all keep an eye out for the huge upset: Alabama plays Mississippi State on Saturday, and the Bulldogs have beaten the Tide two straight; also South Carolina plays at Florida, and you know coach Spurrier will pull out all the stops to try and beat the Gators. Otherwise, I'm going to be left doing my best to put a good face on what looks to be a very ugly slate of games.

Looking first at the Big Ten: Since Penn State lost last week, count me among those who are thrilled to (finally) write the conference off this year. Let's all send Iowa a big "thank you" for exposing Penn State before an SEC or Big XII team could do so in the national championship game.

That said, the Big Ten intramural season continues on this weekend, so I'll throw out a couple lines just in case you're craving a taste.

NORTHWESTERN (+3 1/2) vs Michigan
MINNESOTA (+ 13 1/2) vs Wisconsin
#10 Ohio State vs. ILLINOIS (+9 1/2)

In case you’re looking for winless teams playing at home this weekend, you’re in luck because we’ve got two on the slate this week. It’s doesn’t say much that both Washington and Syracuse are getting bunches of points at home and I couldn’t come close to considering them.

UCLA (-7) at Washington
UCONN (-10) vs. Syracuse

Now on to some not so terrible games (but I still can’t convince you that I’ll be watching this weekend):

NOTRE DAME (-4) vs. Navy: After last year’s upset of Notre Dame in South Bend, the Midshipmen are looking to make it two straight against the Irish. Charlie Weis will be back on the headset calling plays for the Irish this weekend, and I don’t understand why he ever stopped in the first place – he’s a better coordinator than he is a head coach to begin with. This game is on the road and the Irish are terrible away from South Bend, so the Middies definitely have a chance. I don’t see the Irish completely folding up, but I guess anything’s possible.

California vs. # 23 OREGON STATE: After Oregon State shocked USC early this season, the Trojans got slammed for losing to a supposedly god-awful team and were punished by dropping 9,000,000 spots in the polls. That loss doesn’t look so bad now, with OSU sitting at 6-3 and ranked in the top 25. Let’s remember that when USC gets snubbed out of the national championship game.

#17 NORTH CAROLINA (-3) vs. Maryland: Forget about going to Tennessee – UNC coach Butch Davis has got a very good thing going in just year two of his coaching tenure at North Carolina. UNC needs a win to keep pace with Miami atop the ACC Coastal division, and I think they get the win on the road against the Terps this weekend.

BOSTON COLLEGE (+6 1/2) vs. Florida State: Can you call a team “plucky” and not make it sound like an insult? I like BC, even if they are down a bit vs. the standard they set last year. Outside of a bad loss at North Carolina, BC has been close in the other two games they lost – 19-16 to Georgia Tech, and 27-21 to Clemson. I don’t think they’ll beat the ‘Noles in Tallahassee, but the 6 ½ points they’re getting on the road is enticing enough for me to pick them this week.

Vanderbilt vs. KENTUCKY (-3 1/2): Both Vandy and UK got off to fast starts this season, but predictably both stumbled a bit once SEC conference play began. Kentucky is bowl eligible for the third year in a row at 6-4, and a win here would go a long way to preventing a return trip to the Music City Bowl in Nashville. Vandy is close behind at 5-4 and looking for that elusive sixth win – since 1984, however, a five-win Vandy team has played the Cats four times and come up empty each time out. UK looked impressive in last week’s last second 42-38 loss to Georgia, and I’m looking for some of that same offensive success to carry over here.

Last Week: 6-4

Rev Picks 'Em: Week 11

LOUISVILLE (+6) at Pittsburgh: Were this game played a week earlier, I'm not so sure that the Cards would be getting six points here. But that's what happens when you lose to Syracuse - people, and more importanly, people who bet, tend to lose faith in you. On a side note, at least UofL is coached by the commissioner of the More Taste League.

OHIO STATE (-10 1/2) at Northwestern: Northwestern's had a nice season. But they're not going to come within two touchdowns of the Buckeyes. Let's move on, shall we?

#22 Georgia Tech at #19 NORTH CAROLINA (-4): UNC is coming off a bye week and is looking to knock of GT, which sits just above UNC atop the ACC Coastal division. With aspirations of playing for the ACC championship, I think this game sets up very well for the Tar Heels at home.

Kansas at NEBRASKA (-1): Flip a coin time. Guess I'm a Husker fan this week.

Cincinnati at #20 WEST VIRGINIA (-7): After demolishing UConn last week, West Virginia's starting to run away from the rest of a truly awful pack in the Big East. Which is a good thing for the Big East, because the Mountaineers might be the only team in the conference this year that would be remotely competitive in a BCS bowl game.

Notre Dame at BOSTON COLLEGE (-3 1/2): After losing in four overtimes to Pittsburgh in South Bend, you can bet the Irish would much rather be facing off against upcoming opponents Navy or Syracuse. Instead, they get BC, which like the Irish sports a 5-3 record entering this contest. BC has been a major thorn in the side to ACC opponents thus far, and you can bet this will be a very tough bounce back game for the Irish. The Irish haven't won a game on the road so far, and I don't think they will reverse the trend here.

#21 California (+22) at #7 USC: Pete Carroll is right - how do you beat a team (Washington) 56-0 and drop a spot in the polls? And for the record, why is Cal ranked? They will be smoked by the Trojans. That said, I'm a sucker for the line, so I'll gamble with the points in hand and hope USC doesn't beat the Bears by too much.

#3 PENN STATE (-7 1/2) at Iowa: A trap game if there ever was one. Common sense tells me to take the Lions because they've been so good all year ... but for some reason I feel this game has evil written all over it.
#8 Oklahoma State at #2 TEXAS TECH (-3 1/2): Color me impressed. Texas Tech achieved the impossible last week in knocking off Texas, doing so in last-minute dramatic fashion. Now, of course, they are the new front runners. This game screams "LET DOWN!", but I've got to think they'll get by the Cowboys. If I were a Texas Tech fan, it's the matchup against Oklahoma that I would be worried about.

#1 ALABAMA at #15 LSU (+3 1/2):

Welcome back to Baton Rouge, Coach Saban. Enough said.

Last Week: 5-5

Rev Picks Em: Week 10

WEST VIRGINIA (-3 1/2) at Connecticut: What gives with these two? West Virginia started the year ranked highly, then lost to ECU and Colorado, and now seem to be rolling again after trouncing a faltering Auburn team last week in Morgantown. UConn is much the same way – after climbing into the top 25, they dropped some clunkers against Rutgers and UNC. I think WV QB Pat White is the best player on both teams and he has proven time and again to be a game breaker - I’ll be a front-runner here and stick by the Mountaineers.

MIAMI (+2) at Virginia: Both teams are 5-3 and angling for position in a suddenly crowded ACC Coastal Division. Virginia is scoring just 17.8 points per game and they’re giving up 22.3 points to their opponents, yet somehow they have won 4 in a row. As Dubya would say, that’s fuzzy math that can’t possibly hold up. I like Miami’s ability to score (39 ppg) and I like the fact their getting points here. I’m going with the ‘Canes.

AIRFORCE (-8) at Army: Army football hasn’t been good in a long, long time. Go with Air Force and lay the points.

Pittsburgh at NOTRE DAME (-4 1/2): This game is tailor made for the ‘Stache to lose. Outside of playing spoiler against West Virginia last year, Pittsburgh has a tendency to lose big games like this. It’s not that I’m so impressed with Notre Dame, it’s just that I would be scared to death to actually wager that Dave Wannstedt could win a game that matters.


#23 OREGON (+3) at California: Cal has had their share of problems with high-powered offenses (see their 42-27 loss at Arizona). That’s not so great for the Bears considering the Ducks are scoring 41.5 points per game. Give me the Ducks and the points.

Iowa at ILLINOIS (-2 1/2): The Big Ten season ended last week with Penn State winning at Ohio State. If you’re betting this game you either a) attended one of these schools, b) have been a lifelong fan for one team or the other, or c) you are a hard-core gambling addict that needs help.

Tennessee at SOUTH CAROLINA (-5 1/2): The orange apocalypse is soon to come for UT coach Phil Fulmer. Things are real bad right now in Knoxville – they played competitively in spurts last week against Alabama, but overall the Vols just looked to be outclassed and outcoached. It doesn’t get any better for the Vols considering that South Carolina still boasts a great D. UT only scored 9 points last week; I can’t see them exceeding that total by much, if at all, this week. I’m going with So. Carolina.

#16 FLORIDA STATE (+2 ½) at Georgia Tech: If you haven’t been paying much attention to the ACC this year (and let’s be honest, who outside the mid-Atlantic really has been watching?), Florida State has played well enough to this point to sit tied with Maryland atop the Atlantic division. Although Florida State isn’t blowing teams out and running up the score like they once did, the ‘Noles are winning close games that in recent years they always seemed to lose. Plus, I read that Bobby Bowden has never lost to Georgia Tech. Considering he’s been coaching for 200 years, that’s not very good for the Yellow Jackets. I’m taking Grandpa Bobby and the ‘Noles.

#1 TEXAS (-3 1/2) at #6 Texas Tech: Texas Tech has played very impressively to this point, and their 63-21 beatdown of Kansas last week was an exclamation point heading into their matchup with the Longhorns. Texas is certainly a little more battle tested that the Red Raiders, having knocked off Oklahoma, Mizzou, and Oklahoma State (all top 10 teams) in consecutive weeks. The common denominator in all of those Longhorn wins was their defensive performance, and they will be – by far – the best defense Tech faces all year. These two could very well trade scores all day long, but I really think the Texas D will force a couple of costly turnovers that decide this game.

#5 Florida vs. #8 GEORGIA (+6 1/2) (at Jacksonville, FL): What was more embarrassing for Florida last year: watching the ‘Dawgs jump around like crazy in the endzone or watching the scoreboard at the end of the game? Georgia ultimately won this game in a walk, cruising past the Gators 42-30. Emotions obviously always run high in this rivalry game, but last year’s pasting really seems to have gotten under the Gators’ skin. Georgia has been on notice since the SEC football media days this summer that Florida was gunning for them, so I highly doubt they’ll be caught off guard or fail to match the Gators’ intensity. Florida may well win the game, and I expect that they will. However, I think this game will be much closer than last year, and 6 ½ points is just a tad too much to give away. Take the ‘Dawgs and the points.

Last week: 4-6

Pick It Up, Guys! You're Making Me Look Bad!

After being trounced by Florida 65-3 this past Saturday, the University of Kentucky football team announced yesterday that QB Mike Hartline had lost his starting job to freshman phenom Randall Cobb.

This move shouldn’t have caught anyone off guard – UK’s offensive unit is lifeless, averaging only 14.25 points per game in SEC play. Hartline hasn’t done much to help his own cause either – against the Gators, he completed 7 of 13 passes for just 33 yards. He did throw one TD pass, but he threw it to the wrong team – his interception to start the second half was returned 40 yards for a Florida score.

Understandably, it is frustrating for any athlete to come to grips that they’re losing playing time, especially at a position as high-profile as QB. One thing is for sure, however: Hartline is definitely not hiding his frustration over the demotion. From the Lexington (KY) Herald-Leader:

"I'm disappointed. It stinks. You don't ever expect to win the starting job and then lose it because the guys around you aren't performing the way they should."

I’m not sure how well liked Hartline is within his own locker room, but I’m going to venture a guess that his reaction hasn’t won him any new fans among his peers.

In the meantime, I’m proposing a new helmet sticker for the Wildcat players who still are on the field.

Rev Picks 'Em: Week Nine

In these tough economic times, it’s encouraging to know that if you invested in HHR’s pick ‘em recommendations last week, you would not have lost any money. Can the S&P 500 say that? Of course not! So stick with us, and we’ll get you through the rough waters in the weeks ahead.

We know that for you betting fanatics, a 5-5 record is not real encouraging. We’ll consider last week a lesson learned – but we’re back now with a vengeance ready to improve on that .500 mark. Here we go:

#23 BOSTON COLLEGE (+ 3 1/2) at North Carolina (5-2): At 5-1, Boston College seems to be enjoying life just fine in the post-Matt Ryan era. After spotting Virginia Tech 10 early points last week, BC came back to beat the Hokies 28-23. Meanwhile, North Carolina inexplicably lost in overtime last week at Virginia, a game I was sure they were going to win. I’m still mad about the UNC game, so my vengeance pick this week is Boston College on the road and getting the points.

CINCINNATI (-1 ½) at Connecticut: Acutally, I have two vengeance picks this week: UConn let me down last week with a pitiful performance at Rutgers. In fact, every time I’ve picked UConn this year I’ve been let down. So I’m going the other way now - I’m convinced that the Huskies have peaked and will finish no better than fourth in the Big East. Meanwhile, there’s at least one football team in Cincinnati that is playing halfway decent this year, and I’m definitely not talking about the Bengals. In the latest AP rankings, the Bearcats stood just outside the top 25. The Bearcats only loss this season came at Oklahoma, which isn’t too shabby. Take Cincy and give the points.

NOTRE DAME (-11 ½) at Washington: What’s to like about the 0-6 Huskies? That’s a rhetorical question – don’t answer. Plus, how sadly ironic is it that Notre Dame will be hammering one of the final nails in Ty Willingham’s coffin this weekend?

#8 TEXAS TECH (+ 1 ½) at #19 Kansas: Texas Tech is undefeated and averaging close to 46 points a game. This will be the first time the Red Raiders will have faced a top 25 opponent this year, but offensively this matchup may work in their favor. You see, the Kansas D got exposed quite a bit by Oklahoma’s passing attack last week; bad thing for the Jayhawks, then, because Texas Tech slings the ball on just about every play from scrimmage (343 pass attempts vs. 174 rushing attempts, nearly a 2:1 ratio). Guns Up! I like TTU and the points.

MICHIGAN STATE (-4 ½) at Michigan: I’m calling for a mercy killing for Michigan’s 2008 football season. Somebody end this now.

#7 Oklahoma State at #1 TEXAS (-12 ½): Has anyone played a more brutal stretch of games over the past couple of weeks than Texas? Having defeated previously unbeaten Oklahoma and Missouri in back-to-back weeks, does Oklahoma State really stand a chance? 12 ½ is a ton of points to give to the Cowboys, but considering how well the Texas D is playing, the line sounds reasonable.

VIRGINIA TECH (+5 ½) at #24 Florida State: Quietly, Florida State has enjoyed a bit of a resurgence this year – the ‘Noles are 5-1 and are tied with Boston College atop the ACC’s Atlantic Division. Virginia Tech won this game last year in Blacksburg, coach Bobby Bowden’s first loss to the Hokies, so you can bet that FSU will be out for some revenge. However, VA Tech is a decent defensive team, and I just don’t think FSU is offensively powerful enough to put the Hokies away. I’m looking for a close defensive struggle – FSU should win, but I don’t think they’ll cover.

#9 Georgia at #11 LSU (-1 ½): Georgia and LSU are two pretty evenly matched teams – both are probably about 2nd best in their respective SEC divisions. Death Valley is an awfully tough place to play on a Saturday night (what, with 90,000 well-lubricated Tiger fans screaming for blood), and outside of Knowshown Moreno, I don’t think Georgia’s really got the offensive firepower to challenge LSU’s D. If they were getting a few more points, I might be tempted to take the Dawgs, but since they’re only getting 1 ½, I’m taking LSU at home.

#2 Alabama at TENNESSEE (+ 6 ½): Tennessee coach Phil Fulmer made a career out of beating rival Alabama, and he might need to do it again Saturday in Knoxville in order to keep the critics calling for his head at bay. Their coach notwithstanding, the Vols have the size and girth to avoid being pushed around by ‘Bama’s offensive and defensive lines, giving me reason to believe Tennessee will keep this close. I still like ‘Bama to win the game outright, but I think Tennessee covers here.

“Is this over yet?”

#3 PENN STATE (-2 ½) at #10 Ohio State: Ohio State enters this game fresh off a 38 point thrashing of Michigan State, proving yet again that Ohio State is remarkably good at shutting down one dimensional offenses. What to do, then, for the Buckeyes when Penn State goes 3 or 4 wide? The Lions have the speed necessary to seriously challenge – and damage – the Ohio State D. I’m sold on Penn State, and I think they dethrone the reigning Big Ten champs in this one.

Last week’s record: 5-5

Rev Picks 'Em: Week Eight

For all you sports betting fiends out there, Rev switches up the pick ems this week, now offering picks based on weekly college football odds.

CONNECTICUT (-1 ½) at Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights have to be considered the poster children for the ineptitude of the Big East conference this year in college football. Since knocking off then #3 Louisville in 2006, Rutgers has stumbled badly to an 11-12 overall record. With no Ray Rice to lean on, senior QB Mike Teel has played poorly, completing only 55% of his passes and has a paltry 3-7 TD to INT ratio. Connecticut was exposed in their 38-12 loss at North Carolina, but after a bye last week they should bounce back strong against one of the weakest teams (outside of Syracuse) in the Big East.

Michigan at # 3 PENN STATE (-23 ½): This pains me to write, but I have very little faith in this Michigan squad – so little hope, that I’m not even tempted by the 23 ½ points they’ll be getting at Happy Valley. Penn State has speed everywhere on offense and are scoring way too often (317 points on the season thus far) for Michigan’s beleaguered defense to handle. In losses to Notre Dame and Illinois, Michigan gave up 35 and 45 points, respectively. After Penn State’s rout of Wisconsin last week (48-7), I don’t think Penn State will have too much trouble scoring.

Western Michigan Broncos at CENTRAL MICHIGAN (+1 ½): With both teams entering this contest undefeated in conference play, the outcome of this game will go a long way toward determining the MAC champion this year. QB Tim Hiller leads Western Michigan with over 2,000 yards passing and 23 TDs this far into the season. Central Michigan on the other hand, doesn’t score a ton of points or put up gaudy numbers, but they do just enough to hang around and win games late. In the four games since their 56-17 blowout loss at then #2 Georgia, the Chippewas have gone 3-1 with an average margin of victory of 5.0 points. Considering their games are usually close, I’m going to take the underdog at home and run with the points.

#18 NORTH CAROLINA (-4 ½) at Virginia: I love UNC here. In just year two under Butch Davis, the Tarheels will challenge for top-dog status in the ACC as the season goes on. They face a Virginia team that has won two straight after early season struggles, but I just don’t think the Cavaliers stand much of a chance. Virginia’s averaging just 17.0 points a game vs. UNC’s 31.8. Did I mention I love UNC?
#11 Ohio State at #17 MICHIGAN STATE (+3 ½) So far, no team has been able to hold down the Spartans’ super running back Javon Ringer – but then again, the Spartans haven’t played a team that is as good against the run as Ohio State. With the loss of DE Lawrence Wilson, the Buckeyes may be tempted to bring 8 men into the box to stop Ringer, and that may open things up just enough for MSU QB Brian Hoyer to hit some quick, intermediate routes downfield. Of course, Michigan State will likely be forced to do the same to stop OSU RB Beanie Wells, so much of the Buckeyes’ success will depend on how freshman QB handles his first true test against a top-flight opponent on the road. This one should be close, so I’m taking the Spartans and the points at home.

MIAMI (-4 ½) at Duke: Duke is one of the feel-good stories of the season in year one of coach David Cutcliffe’s stewardship. Cutcliffe is a fantastic offensive schemer and play caller – for proof, look at what his absence has meant to the Tennessee Volunteers this year. However, I expect Miami’s raw athletic ability will far outclass that of Duke; plus, the ‘Canes are 0-2 thus far in ACC conference play, so they should be out hungry for a win in this one.

ARKANSAS (+7 ½) at Kentucky: Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino returns to Lexington sporting a spotless record against the ‘Cats, having gone 4-0 vs. UK during his days at the helm of Louisville. Kentucky has an outstanding defense, but their offense is almost non-existent – they had 4 take-aways last week and still lost to South Carolina, 24-17. Compounding problems for UK is the loss of senior WR Dicky Lyons to a season-ending knee injury - without their top WR target available, the Cats seemingly will be very one dimensional from here on out. If Arkansas stops the run this weekend, they have a very real chance to win this game outright. That, and you know Petrino will have something devious cooked up for his former in-state rival.

#13 LSU at SOUTH CAROLINA (+2 ½): LSU was flat embarrassed last week against Florida, losing by 30 in the Swamp. Taking cues from that game, South Carolina’s superb defense will look to put a ton of pressure on LSU’s inexperienced QB tandem of Jarrett Lee and Andrew Hatch and force them into multiple turnovers. Plus, now that the ol’ Ball Coach has (for the time being) settled around the talented Stephen Garcia as his starting QB, the reins may be loosened a bit on the Gamecocks’ here-to-now bottled-up offense. I think they have a real shot at springing the upset outright in this one.

#25 CALIFORNIA (-2 ½) at Arizona: Outside of a no-show performance in their loss at Maryland, Cal is quietly enjoying a solid start to their season out West. The only remaining unbeaten in the PAC-10, Cal is ringing up 39.4 points per game. The numbers, meanwhile, say Arizona tops that with an average of 40.1 points a game – but if you throw out their 70-0 blowout of Idaho to open the season, Arizona’s scoring per game average drops to 34.2. Cal looks to be a little more balanced offensively than the pass happy Wildcats, and the Bears running game should grind them out a win this weekend in the desert.

#11 Mizzou at #1 TEXAS (-5 ½): Mizzou is coming off a crushing and unexpected loss at the hands of Oklahoma State last week. With this weekend’s matchup with #1 Texas next on the slate, it’s fair to say that it’s panic time in Columbia right now. Two losses in conference doesn’t necessarily kill their season, but it just may end any talk that the Tigers could play for the national championship. The number #1 ranking hasn’t been kind to those who’ve worn it this year, and Texas will have a big target on their backs this week against a desperate Mizzou squad. That aside … did you watch the Texas-Oklahoma game? Texas is pretty good – better than Mizzou, in my opinion. I’m taking the ‘Horns and giving 5 ½ here.