Championship Week: Week 14 NCAA Pick'em

Last Week's Win/Loss: 8-5

Total Win/Loss since Week 2: 81-42

SMU vs. UCF

Alex's pick:SMU

Rutgers at #23 West Virginia

 Alex's pick: West Virginia

Pitt at Cincinnati

Alex's pick: Pitt

#2 Oregon at Oregon State

Alex's pick: Oregon

#1 Auburn vs. #18 South Carolina

Alex's pick: Auburn

#20 Florida State vs. #12 Virginia Tech

Alex's pick: Virginia Tech

Washington at Washington State

Alex's pick: Washington 

#13 Nebraska vs. #10 Oklahoma

Alex's pick: Nebraska

UConn at South Florida

Alex's pick: UConn

USC at UCLA

Alex's pick: USC

College Football: Week 12 Pick'em

Last Week's Win/Loss: 7-3

Total Win/Loss since Week 2: 67-33

#6 Wisconsin at Michigan

Alex's pick: Wisconsin

Why: Michigan just cannot play defense. Simply put. But the strong running game of Wisconsin has been behind big left tackle Gabe Carimi, who had a superb month of October against top notch DE's. If Denard Robinson can keep pace with the pounding rushing attack of Wisconsin, we could have ourslelves a shootout. J.J. Watt will need to be disciplined in getting too far upfield, he will have to play a conservative contain against the dual threat Robinson, forcing him to pass. Wisconsin by 18

Troy at #17 South Carolina

Alex's pick: South Carolina

Why: Troy will give SC all they can handle with Jerel Jernigan their speedy wideout, but in all reality this Troy defense is no match for the explosive SC offense. No cornerback for Troy will be able to cover either of SC's big bodied WR's, Tori Gurley and Alshon Jeffrey, both of whom are 6'5. Add in the fact that Troy allowed over 650 yards of offense last week, and this game will and should be a blowout. SC by 28

Illinois vs. Northwestern

Alex's pick: Northwestern

Why: Essentially a home game, Northwestern lost their star quarterback Dan Persa last week with a torn achilles tendon. They will have a freshman start this week, but isn't that how both Mike Kafka's and Dan Persa's careers started? Northwestern's defense is stronger than Illinois' offense and this will be close, low scoring affair. Northwestern by 2

#7 Stanford at Cal

Alex's pick: Stanford

Why: Cal has won 7 of the past 8 matchups, and the previous 4 games; however Stanford is a different team this season. Balanced on offense, and equally dominant on defense, Andrew Luck should get to business here and win Stanford another ball game. Stanford wins a close win much like Oregon did last week; Stanford by 13

#14 Virginia Tech at #24 Miami (FL)

Alex's pick: Miami

Why: The resurgence of the Hurricane running game (185+ypg) as well as their lockdown pass defense, will result in a victory over the now ACC favorites Virginia Tech. Miami by 16

#8 Ohio State at #21 Iowa

Alex's pick: Ohio State

Why: One of the best defenses in college football, OSU will force Ricky Stanzi into turnovers, leading to quick and easy offensive scores. This game is expected to be a good watch, however I see this one getting out of hand quickly. OSU by 24

#13 Arkansas at #23 Mississippi State

Alex's pick: Arkansas

Why: If Mississippi State had any semblance of firepower on offense this could be a close game because of their strong defense. With that said, they do not have any strength on offense, and Ryan Mallet will tear them apart through the air. Arkansas wins in a blowout; ARK by 24

#9 Nebraska at #18 TAMU

Alex's pick: Nebraska

Why: Taylor Martinez is due for another breakout game. Nebraska still only a one-loss team, has the explosiveness on offense to really pound this TAMU defense; the inconsistency on offense, compounded by a young quarterback playing against a stout and experienced defense spells disaster for the Aggies. Nebraska wins by 17

#20 USC at Oregon State

 Alex's pick: Oregon State

Why: Matt Barkley has looked spectacular in recent weeks, however I feel Oregon State will pull the upset. JaQuizz Rodgers runs for over a hundred, and safety Lance Mitchell forces a couple of turnovers against the surging USC Trojan offense. Oregon State  by 6

#25 Utah at San Diego State

Alex's pick: San Diego State

Why: San Diego State scores points in bunches and could jump out to an early lead; they will need to be aggressive on defense and get into qb Jordan Wynn's head, leading to early turnovers in the Utes' passing game. San Diego State by 3

College Football: Week 11 Pick'em

Last Week's Win/Loss: 5-5

Total Win/Loss since Week 2: 60-30

#13 Iowa at Northwestern

Alex's pick: Iowa

Why: Dan Persa has been playing at an extremely high level this season, leading Northwestern to a 6-3 record; nevertheless a 2-3 conference record and an inability to win big games has stuck as a label. I think they give Iowa a strong performance, but the improved offense of the Hawkeyes will be the center point of attention. Iowa by 10

Kansas State at #20 Missouri

Alex's pick: Missouri

Why: Kansas State's inability to pass the football will make the game that much easier for the Mizzou D. Daniel Thomas lacks the burst to create running lanes for himself and benefits from tiring down a defensive front, gaining steam towards the latter portion of games. The probem this week is the rotational D-Line which Missouri implements and the stacked fronts the KSU Wildcats will face. Missouri starts out in a flurry, but behind Daniel Thomas they come close to taking the lead. Missouri by 6 

Penn State at #8 Ohio State

Alex's pick: Ohio State

Why: Defense wins this game for the Buckeyes, as they are set to "tee off" on the freshman quarterback carousel from Penn State. Jim Tressel has noticeably picked up on more aggressive playcalling and the offense is benefiting. TP throws for 350 and Ohio State wins. OSU by 21

#16 Virginia Tech at North Carolina

Alex's pick: North Carolina

Why: North Carolina's defense is really starting to gel, and I feel if they can pressure Tyrod Taylor into early mistakes, that the improved rushing attack can maintain an early lead. Matchup to watch is Va. Tech WR Jarrett Boykin vs. UNC CB Kendric Burney. Top end skill position players that will likely see the other all afternoon. Boykin has height advantage, however Burney has extremely good ball skills. UNC by 3

Georgia at #2 Auburn

Alex's pick: Auburn

Why: One of two upset alert picks I have this week; I will be in attendance for this game at Jordan Hare Stadium! Very excited to see 2 possible top 2011 NFL prospects on both teams; A.J. Green WR of Georgia, Nick Fairley DT of Auburn, and obviously Cam Newton QB of Auburn. Interested to see whether or not he plays, but Im positive that this team rallies the troops behind Cam, and Auburn fans witness a Georgia Bulldog beatdown. Yet with all the distractions, it is VERY possible for an upset. Auburn by 17

San Diego St. at #3 TCU

Alex's pick: TCU

Why: Another on upset alert, I am interested to see how TCU follows up their domination of formerly #5 ranked Utah. Primed for a letdown, head coach Gary Patterson won't let pride sink in and destroy TCU's national championship hopes...TCU by 21

#23 TAMU at Baylor

 Alex's pick: Baylor

Why: After letting me down in a BIG way last week, Im going to stay with the Bears. Coming off his worst start this season, I feel Robert Griffen III will light it up. His ability to stretch the pocket with his feet should limit the sack opportunities of TAMU, who are solely reliant upon stud OLB Von Miller. If Baylor tailors blitz pickups to cover up Miller, then I would not be surprised if Griffen carves up an Aggie defense. Baylor by 13

#17 Mississippi State at #11 Alabama

Alex's pick: Alabama 

Why: Coming off a painful loss to LSU, Alabama and Coach Nick Saban will show resiliency in this matchup of top 20 ranked SEC opponents. A lot depends on the health of RB Trent Richardson, as he has been heavily relied upon this season. Mark Ingram needs to up his game this week as well; Ingram has been somewhat ineffective the last couple of weeks and will need to open up the PA passing attack for Greg McElroy. Bama by 16

#12 Oklahoma State at Texas

Alex's pick: Oklahoma State

Why: Former MLB player Brandon Weeden's ability to step in and command this high flying offense, is the main reason to why OSU is set to be the Big 12's BCS Bowl bid. Justin Blackmon is as big for this offense as any other WR in the nation, and will be tested against a talented secondary. Kendall Hunter and the run game will be the X-Factor for the game. OSU by 19

USC at #18 Arizona

Alex's pick: USC

Why: Matt Barkley and the USC Trojans are starting to play up to their abilities, and have begun to win close games. If this one is within a TD heading into the 4th quarter, USC will win. The stable of running backs allow for fresh legs every series, and Arizona's D-Line is suspect against the run. USC by 7

College Football: Week 10 Pick'em

Last Week's Win/Loss: 8-2

Total Win/Loss since Week 2: 55-25

Air Force at Army

Alex's pick: Army

Why: In the triangular battle for the Commander in Chief trophy, Navy will be rooting for an Army win onSaturday as they seek a 2nd straight trophy. Army and Air Force are both the only 2 schools with 26 rushing touchdowns or more. Air Force's lead FB Jared Tew out with an injury leads to my choice of Army over Air Force. Army by 6

#21 Baylor at #17 Oklahoma State

Alex's pick: Baylor

Why: Robert Griffin. One of the most dynamic players in college football, Griffin has gone somewhat under the radar in putting together a solid sophomore season. Boasting a renewed look on offense, as well as a powerful rushing attack, I feel Baylor will beat Oklahoma State in impressive fashion. Give me the Bears by 17

#3 TCU at #5 Utah

Alex's pick: TCU

Why: Defense and balance on offense. The complete team atmosphere and coaching effect of Gary Patterson puts TCU over the edge. Two similarly talented teams, TCU and Utah are poster childs for a changing perspective on a growing Mountain West Conference. TCU by 14

North Carolina at #24 Florida State

Alex's pick: Florida State

Why: North Carolina's weak offense has dropped too many games for me in my "Pick'ems" this season. No more. Florida State behind their qb Christian Ponder should carve up the Heels D. The key for both teams is the running game; both teams are inconsistent in churning yards on the ground, allowing defenses to key in on the pass. Florida State by 7

#3 Alabama at #5 LSU

Alex's pick: Alabama

Why: Saban is a winner, and so are his teams. Just ask LSU fans...2 National chamionships attest to that statement. The balance on offense, combined with the strength on D and a gelling secondary versus a weak pass offense in LSU, leads to a Bama victory. LSU creates a spark and keeps this close, but give me Bama by 7

Northwestern at Penn State

Alex's pick: Penn State

Why: In what should be one of the most memorable moments of college football this season, Joe Pa wins his 400th career victory. Unbelievable how Joe Patterno  has been so good for so long, best coach of all time.

#23 Nevada at Idaho

 Alex's pick: Nevada

Why: The 81st ranked run defense (Idaho) versus the 5th ranked run offense (Nevada). It seems lopsided here, but Idaho is tied for 11th in the country in forced fumbles (8 ff). The turnovers will keep Idaho close but not close enough. Nevada by 13

#18 Arkansas at #19 South Carolina

Alex's pick: Arkansas

Why: Ryan Mallet needs a big time victory this week at SC, and I think he gets it. With two of his leading receivers banged up, he will be looking for D.J. Williams across the middle. TE Williams should rack in close to 10 catches, as well as a TD or 2. If Arkansas can force Garcia into turnovers early, it will go a long way from them in this game. Arkansas by 16

#15 Arizona at #13 Stanford

Alex's pick: Stanford

Why: The balance on offense, with a powerful run game and methodical passing attack, will prove too much for the Arizona Wildcats. If you have a chance to watch this game, watch Owen Marecic. Marecic starts both ways, linebacker and fullback, and is the essence of a true football player. Stanford by 14

#8 Oklahoma at TAMU

Alex's pick: Oklahoma

Why: Demarco Murray is one of the most dynamic players in all of college football; a defensive coordinators nightmare. You can line him up in shotgun, run qb-read plays, draws, counters, swing passes, chip block releases. Or you can even line him at WR, where he runs crisp routes, and catches the ball with strength. As an offense, there are really no limits to what this guy can and cannot do. Really fun to watch, and TAMU will be watching the same thing all night. OU by 27

College Football: Week 9 Pick'em

Last Week's Win/Loss: 6-4

Total Win/Loss since Week 2: 47-23

Purdue at Illinois

Alex's pick: Purdue

Why: After an embarrassing loss to Ohio State, Purdue will clean its act up in a big way. On the road against a surging Fighting Illini team, the Boilermakers win by 6

#5 Michigan State at #18 Iowa

Alex's pick: Iowa

Why: With Michigan State sliding by opponents the past three weeks, Iowa poses a huge roadblock to the undefeated Spartans. Iowa's front seven will shut down the running game of Sparty, and Ricky Stanzi will propel the Hawkeyes to a bounce-back win against Michigan State.

#6 Missouri at #14 Nebraska

Alex's pick: Nebraska

Why: Missouri was primed to beat #1 Oklahoma last week, however Nebraska seems locked and loaded for a resurgence as the top dog in the Big 12. After a disappointing loss to Texas, Nebraska outgunned a strong Oklahoma State team that was then undefeated and raising Big 12 championship talk. Similarly to Oklahoma State, Missouri is undefeated and coming off a string of impressive victories. At Lincoln, Nebraska, this game has upset written all over it...even if it shouldn't be called an upset. 

#15 Arizona at UCLA

Alex's pick: Arizona

Why: With so many weapons to go to on offense, it doesn't matter who is playing quarterback for the Wildcats. Nic Foles returns from injury, and it is unclear whether or not he will start this Saturday, however, the balanced attack of Arizona should be able to put up points against an otherwise unimpressive UCLA defense. Rendering 60 points to the Oregon Ducks last week, UCLA will be sure to come back furious and fighting from the first whistle, yet Juron Criner's effectiveness at receiver should draw double teams from safety and corner, leaving the middle of the field wide open. If the Wildcats utilize the middle of the field and play ball-control, this game could easily get out of hand. Arizona by 17

Georgia at Florida

Alex's pick: Georgia

Why: Disappointing starts by both of these SEC East teams seem to be the storyline here. Florida especially cannot put together any sort of consistency, and has fluttered all season long offensively. Losing Tim Tebow's physical skill hurts, but what may be the biggest concern is the lack of leadership in the Gators locker room. The void in leadership seems to be the biggest reason for late game lapses, lack of discipline, and failure to capitalize in key situations. A.J. Green and Janoris Jenkins will prove to be the matchup to watch this weekend; Green looks to continue his impressive senior campaign and improve his draft stock in this SEC showdown. Aaron Murray has shown vast improvements since week 1, and his mobility in the past weeks has put Georgia in a position to make an SEC East title run. Georgia by 7

#25 Baylor at Texas

 Alex's pick: Baylor

Why: Texas has no identity on offense; when you have no identity, anyone can beat you...even Iowa State. Baylor's qb Robert Griffen is a machine when it comes to offensive production, and I believe there is nothing standing between him and another big time performance. The offensive line for Baylor has dominated at the point of attack lately (averaging over 290 rushing yards in their last two games), and Texas' front seven on defense has shown many inconsistencies. Baylor runs away with this one by 17

#13 Stanford at Washington

Alex's pick: Stanford

Why: A matchup of NFL 1st round quarterbacks, Andrew Luck and Jake Locker, this Stanford v. Washington matchup could come down to the wire. Seemingly unshakeable Andrew Luck has not let down the scouts who so highly rated him this preseason; Jake Locker on the other hand, after a series of inconsistent flashings of optimism and doubt, has scouts worried about his NFL "readiness". In a game that is sure to sport a number of scouts, both quarterbacks have a primetime light to showcase their talents. Winners of the last two team meetings, I feel Stanford's physical style of play will overpower the Washington Huskies. Stanford puts the Washington Huskies winless in the last 3 years against the Cardinals, Stanford by 3. 

Kentucky at #23 Mississippi State

Alex's pick:Mississippi State

Why: Although the bell cows have been banned by the SEC, don't expect to see this raucous crowd to go down without a fight. Keep those ears ready for some noise makers of Mississippi sorts, as Mississippi State and their strong running attack look to defend their home turf against the Kentucky Wildcats. Mike Hartline of Kentucky has been very impressive as of recent weeks, upsetting SC and showing off his rocket arm. Look for Mississippi to grind 'em out in this SEC fist fight that should stay under 30 points total scored offensively. Mississippi State by 10.

#8 Utah at Air Force

Alex's pick: Utah

Why: Air Force puts up a good fight every week; they just seem to lack the firepower on offense. Utah continues to stake its claim in the BCS picture with a defining win, leading up to their matchup with top 5 team TCU. Utah by 21

#2 Oregon at USC

Alex's pick: Oregon

Why: Darren Thomas and LaMichael James pose the nastiest 1-2 punch since Pat White and Noel Devine. The balanced power of the Ducks offense will overtake a rather underwhelming USC ballclub. Oregon by 28

College Football: Week 7 Pick'em

Last week's record: 4-6

Total win/loss since week 2: 34-16

Illinois at #13 Michigan St. 
Alex's pick: Michigan St.
Why: Michigan St. stays undefeated and continues its success at home versus a tough Illinois squad; Michigan State's Greg Jones will limit the rushing attack of Mikel LeShoure, and the speed of Michigan state will prove too much for Illinois. Michigan State by 10
Michigan State

#21 Missouri at Texas A&M
Alex's pick: Texas A&M
Why: If Jerrod Johnson can cut out the excess turnovers, A&M could expose a untested Missouri squad; I feel Von Miller will have a breakout game and really disrupt things for the Tigers' offense. A&M by 7
Missouri

#15 Iowa at Michigan
Alex's pick: Iowa
Why: This game will be a hard fought victory for the Hawkeyes, as this will be Michigan's toughest test all season long. If Clayborn and the front seven can set hard edges on Denard Robinson and force Michigan to pass the ball, look for the Iowa secondary to make some big-time plays in pass coverage. Tyler Sash is a fast roaming safety who can play sideline-to-sideline. Iowa by 7
Iowa

#12 Arkansas at #7 Auburn

Alex's pick: Auburn
Why: Cam Newton will tear into this Razorback defense; the dual threat of Newton, coupled by the strong, uptempo, balanced attack of the Tiger offense, will lead to a huge victory at home for Auburn. As long as Auburn's secondary makes enough big plays in the 2nd half, I feel although it will be close throughout the entire game, Auburn will pull away in the 4th quarter. Auburn by 13
Auburn

Texas at #5 Nebraska
Alex's pick: Nebraska
Why: Nebraska has, in my opinion, the most dominant front seven in all of college football. Without a doubt the stoutest defense in the Big 12, Nebraska will continue Texas' offensive woes in what could turn into a blowout win. Also should mention a quarterback named Taylor Martinez. One of the most exciting quarterbacks in the nation, Martinez rivals even Denard Robinson and Cam Newton with his explosive speed. Nebraska's quick strike offense, which is first in percentage of 20+ yard plays and average yards per play (8.3 yards), will be too much for the Longhorn's defense.Nebraska by 17
Texas

Cal at USC
Alex's pick: USC
Why: USC just cannot seem to win close games this season; until now. Matt Barkley has led what he thought to be 2 consecutive game-winning drives, only to leave too much time on the clock for the opposing team. USC will win a very close game that will prove to be somewhat of a defensive game. USC by 6
USC

#1 Ohio State at #18 Wisconsin
Alex's pick: Wisconsin
Why: At home, in Camp Randall Stadium, I feel the fall of another #1 ranked school. Ohio State's rushing defense has been a strong point all season (holding opponents to under 80 ypg), yet the rushing attack of John Clay, led by the big hogs up front for the Badgers will open up running lanes. Wisconsin wins in stunning fashion at home, upsetting the #1 ranked Ohio State. Wisconsin by 6 
Wisconsin

Mississippi St. at #22 Florida

Alex's pick: Florida
Why: Urban Meyer gets his Gators up in a bounce-back win. Mississippi State will wreak havoc and keep this game close, however Florida's speed and talent will end up the victor. John Brantley will make the smart decisions and keep the Bulldogs of Mississippi State penned up. Florida by 14
Mississippi State

#24 Oregon St. at Washington
Alex's pick: Washington
Why: Jake Locker is a fiery competitor, and the loss of James Rodgers for OSU will be too much to overcome. The effect JaQuizz's brother James has had on the Beaver's offense is second only to Quiz himself, and Washington's defense should be able to really key in on the running game of OSU. Washington by 10
Washington

#19 Nevada at Hawaii

Alex's pick: Hawaii
Why: Thousands of miles away? I think this will be an epic shootout, and the aerial attack of Hawaii is sure to put up enough points to keep up with Nevada. Nevada's Colin Kaepernicke is a solid qb, but I feel the Nevada defense won't hold up against the passing attack of Hawaii. Hawaii by 5

Hawaii




Week 7 Results: 7 wins (Michigan State, Auburn, USC, Wisconsin, Washington, and Hawaii), and 3 losses (Texas, Missouri, and Mississippi State) 

College Football: Week 6 Pick'em

Last week's record: 8-2

Total win/loss since week 2: 30-10

Indiana at #2 Ohio State
Alex's pick: Ohio State
Why: Indiana is no shabby opponent and is 4th in the FBS in Passing yards, yet Ohio State understands the importance of this Big 10 game and will come out firing. If the Buckeyes stick it the Hoosiers early, this game could turn out to be a blowout. OSU by 21
Ohio State
#17 Michigan St. at #18 Michigan
Alex's pick: Michigan
Why: Denard Robinson; see Heisman Watch...same as last week. Michigan by 7
Michigan State
Clemson at North Carolina
Alex's pick: Clemson
Why: Clemson desperately needs this win, after back to back losses to ranked opponents; both being close losses where Clemson could have just as easily won. Andre Ellington and Jamie Harper will continue to carry the workload of this offense, but may face their stiffest test all year in UNC's stacked linebacking corps. I feel the Tigers will be playing with a chip on their shoulder, and Da'Quan Bowers will get some mean pressure on Tyler Yates and the UNC o'line. Clemson by 3
Clemson
#11 Arkansas vs. Texas A&MAlex's pick: #11 Miami
Why: This should be a huge game for Ryan Mallet and the Wild Hogs, coming off a bye week. A&M has been suspect on defense all year, being exposed by Oklahoma State last week on primetime television. Arkansas' O-Line will be too much for the Aggies, and I feel that the Razorbacks will find some semblance of a rushing attack. Arkansas by 14
Arkansas
#1 Alabama at #19 South Carolina
Alex's pick: #1 Alabama
Why: Alabama didn't just win against Florida, they beat them down a whole size and a half...Alabama at this point is far and wide the best team in college football. Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson pose the best 1-2 ground punch in FBS, and McElroy is a great "field general" as he likes to call himself. Alabama by 24
South Carolina

Oregon St. at #9 Arizona
Alex's pick: #9 Arizona
Why: Nick Foles has shown everything you want in your starting qb; accuracy, poise, and leadership. In an upset alert game, Arizona will need to stymie the slashing game plan of the Rodgers brothers (JaQuizz and James). Zona will escape this one due to the play of Foles. Arizona by 6
Oregon State
#16 Stanford at USC
Alex's pick: #9 Stanford
Why: In a bounce-back performance, Luck will show scouts why he is the number one draft prospect in 2011. Luck will need to be wary of alien blitzes and numerous looks from Lane Kiffin's USC defense. If Luck follows the blueprint laid by Sarkesian and Locker of Washington, Stanford will roll over USC. Stanford by 16
Stanford


#8 Auburn at Kentucky
Alex's pick: #8 Auburn
Why: Cam Newton will dominate this Kentucky Wildcats team that is largely out manned and out matched in this SEC matchup. Auburn needs to be on point, as they gave away last year's game to Kentucky, which ended up being a crushing loss for the Tigers. Auburn by 27
Auburn


#12 LSU at #14 Florida
Alex's pick: Florida
Why: LSU SHOULD have lost last week, yet escaped on a mistake by a young Tennessee team. The Mad Hatter won't find life so lucky this week at the swamp; against a mad and pissed off Florida Gators team, Urban Meyer will make sure his team comes ready to play this Saturday. It will be a close defensive struggle; Florida by 10
LSU

#23 Florida St. at #13 MiamiAlex's pick: Miami
Why: Jacory Harris has got to clean up his act; no more stupid turnovers. Its awful, and disgusting how careless he has been with the football. The front seven for Miami, as well as the return of star running back Graig Cooper will prove enough to put Miami over the top of a tough Florida St. unit. Miami by 6
Florida State