New Year's Day Bowl Bash: PHSports Preview

January 1st used to be home to more than a few bowls; however, with the (relatively) new BCS-format, it's changed up a bit.

Several bowls (Outback, Capital One, Gator) get their due; yet, several marquee names (Cotton, Sugar, & Fiesta) get their own days/nights.

Nevertheless, let's tackle the 5 games you'll have the opportunity to watch tomorrow, in order of course.

11:00 am - Outback Bowl [South Carolina vs. Iowa]
Ever since November 15th's 56-6 beatdown from his former Gators, I've had the odd feeling that the Gamecocks may be tired of waiting for Steve Spurrier to inspire/coach/prepare/transform them to the next level. While his team is playing on New Year's, that's hardly a compliment when you consider their 7-5 mark and yearly "fade to bowl season". Meanwhile, Iowa can hang it's hat on costing Penn State a BCS Title Game appearance and that the majority of its skill position players (primarily QB Ricky Stanzi and RB Shonn Greene) are all returning next season. I see no reason to believe the Gamecocks will "get up" for the Ole Ball Coach and deliver an inspired win. I'm taking Iowa to continue building towards next year, even if it's entertaingly-close.

Impact Players: Sophomore Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi may walk into next season challenging the far more well known Big Ten QBs for top honors. No better place to lay your claim than here.

Prediction: Iowa wins 27-23

1:00 pm - Gator Bowl [Nebraska vs. Clemson]
The two coaches on the sideline may command more media attention than the talent on the field. Bo Pelini would love 9-wins and a New Year's Day bowl game victory for his first season; meanwhile, Dabo Sweeney still has a lot of detractors-in-waiting after securing the job after being brought on in an interim basis for fired Tommy Bowden. While the game will ultimately come down to the talent on the field, I can't help but wonder how the major stories in each region's newspapers will be impacted by a win/loss due to the performance of these coaches (and not necessarily their teams).

Impact Players: Clemson RB tandem James David and CJ Spiller may have combined for 1300+ yards and 18 rushing TDs; nevertheless, they were both cataclysmic dissapointments - alongside their team - the majority of the season. Draft stock matters in bowl games, big time.

Prediction: Clemson wins 30-28

1:00 pm - Capital One Bowl [Georgia vs. Michigan State]
Most people expect this one to be a laugher in favor of the Bulldogs, yet I'm not so sure. In a season in which they started #1, this team isn't making a statement similar to that against Hawaii in the Sugar Bowl last season. Both teams are loaded with upperclassmen, which means the game will come down to execution and who can avoid giving up the big play late.

Players to Watch: Matthew Stafford has one last major chance to show why he's #1-overall talent; yet, it's Michigan State senior RB Javon Ringer that might be the most talented player on the field.

Prediction: Georgia wins 38-28

5:00 pm - Rose Bowl [Penn State vs. USC]
I could talk for days and days trying to break down this game, but I won't. Why? Because this game will come down to one simple question: can Penn State keep up with the athletes at USC? Well, can they?

Players to Watch: The three skill position players at Penn State better be ready to run-run-run. QB Daryll Clark must realize that ball security and long, time-consuming drives are his best friends. RB Evan Royster better be ready to bruise people up the middle, as well as along the edges. WR Deon Butler has got to open up lanes - perhaps through making an early catch or two downfield - in order to spread out a speedy (and underrated) Trojan defense.

Prediction: USC wins 41-17

8:00 pm - Orange Bowl [Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech]

The BCS game most people don't claim to "care about", just might end up being one of the best, seriously. Tech has a lot of talent and much of it isn't juniors and seniors. Meanwhile, Cincinnati was an 11-2 team and outside of an embarassing loss in Stoors (not in basketball, mind you) they dominated Big East play. While I can honestly admit I didn't watch a single snap of the Bearcast season, Hokie fans know not to underestimate opponents; especially after Tech lost to Kansas last season - in absolutely horrid Miami weather - in the Orange Bowl.

Players to Watch: Any legit Hokie fan will tell you that Jason "All" Worlds is one of the reasons they're most excited about next season. His playmaking ability is astounding due to his size and speed around the corner. He'll pose more than a few problems for Cincy's backfield.

Prediction: Virginia Tech wins 21-20


While bowl games - especially with the writer's on this staff - might take priority #1; it'd be a mistake to miss out on 5 potentially entertaining New Year's Day bowl games.

InClement Weather: Mid-Week Musings

A few musings at 10:00pm on a cold Wednesday night...

If Eric Maynor is a lock to be a 1st-round pick...I'm going to NYC for the draft. All I wanna know is: who's coming with me? Who's coming with me man!?!?
Credit: USA Today.com

...College Basketball Season Quick Hits...
1) Can somebody explain to me how 3-time player of the year winner Ralph Sampson isn't in the (meaningless) college basketball hall of fame? No capital letters needed for a hall that won't recognize one of its greatest ever.
2) How many of Michigan's Fab 5 can you still name?
3) Who you taking: '08/'09 UNC or '90/'91 UNLV?
4) Stephen Curry and Blake Griffin need to meet again in the NCAA tournament.
5) I've been waiting way too long to see "that" Wayne Chism that showed up - and then some - against Marquette. I still think he's a Jason Maxiell-type in the NBA (impact-wise).

Gotta admit I was more than a little surprise to see an NFC Pro Bowl roster sans-Abraham.
Credit: ESPN.go.com

...Pro Bowl Selection Quick Hits...
1) I'm not crying for DeAngelo Williams or Brandon Jacobs as NFC RB "snubs".
2) I'm surprised the AFC didn't vote John Lynch in again, despite not playing a snap.
3) It's Pennington then Rivers then Cassell who should be in over Favre.
4) Assante Samuel didn't deserve that nod at all.
5) Lance Briggs was extremely deserving. Ditto for James Farrior.

Can anyone - besides Pay - name this former Heisman winner?
Credit: Google Image Search (Title of the website gives it away!)

...Bowl Season Quick Hits...
1) A realistic playoff system will never work, people. How do you expect a typical fan (ex: Trojan fan) to do a quarterfinal in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, a semi-final in the Orange Bowl in Miami, and then a final in the Superdome in New Orleans??? You don't ask them to pick 1, 2, or even worse...try and afford all 3 games. It just won't work with 8 teams. Not in our economy or anyone's.
2) You got Paterno croaking on the field or in the press box? That isn't disrespectful either. Paterno obviously wants that to be the way he goes...in twenty years.
3) The Heisman is irrelevant. Good argument though for this year, more unmemorable: Phillies as World Series Champs or Sam Bradford as Heisman Trophy winner? One word: push.
4) The "southwest" should lose their ballots next year.
5) Turner Gill didn't automatically "deserve" the job at Auburn. He's 15-22 and I'm not sold Buffalo is becoming a major "mid-major" college football team. The hiring practices at Auburn weren't pretty though.

Were Harold Perrineau (above) and myself the only two people upset to find out Michael died in last year's season finale?
Credit: EW.com

...Pop Culture Quick Hits...
1) Wednesday nights seem a little lost without Lost. (Too bad it's moving to Thursdays)
2) Anybody else miss Perfect Strangers a little too much? TGIF?
3) Seriously, it's a toss-up between Dark Knight and Wall-E for my movie of the year.
4) Jennifer Anniston has still got it. And then some...
5) Is there a better all-time network foursome than HBO's Sopranos, The Wire, Oz, & Curb Your Enthusiasm. Chicks can sub in Sex and the City, while the new millennium might sub in Entourage.

Seriously. WATCH this show.



That's twenty thoughts that I think have passed the time.
Thoughts?

I didn't think so!

InClement Weather: MY BCS

I don't care what the contracts, computers, or Lee Corso has to say.

I am fixing the BCS. How?
Watch me!

Instead of Mark Sanchez, you might see a guy named Lyle at QB in the Rose Bowl. Good.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

Scenario #1: Current 5 BCS Bowl Format
Assuming...chaos theory doesn't happen.
Texas Tech defeats Oklahoma (yes, in Norman) & Missouri. Undefeated.
Alabama defeats Florida. Yes, the Gators.
Oregon State wins out. Sorry, Trojans.
Somebody...anybody...wins the ACC & Big (L)East.
Utah wins out. Boise State wins out. Ball State wins out.

BCS Title Game
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Analysis: DUH!

Rose Bowl
Oregon State vs. Penn State
Analysis: There, Pac-10 vs. Big Ten. Eat up the pageantry!

Sugar Bowl
Florida vs. USC
Analysis: The game most of America will be dying for.

Orange Bowl
Boise State vs. Ball State
Analysis: The ACC is extremely competitive, but doesn't have a BCS-quality team. We all know about the Big (L)East. Yes, I'm gonna continue using that. Reward the undefeated teams. Why? Because nobody will schedule em from the majors!

Fiesta Bowl
Texas vs. Utah
Analysis: Offenses galore! Fine with me.

Scenario #2: Eight-Team Playoff (Obama-Style)

#1. Alabama vs. #8. Penn State
#2. Texas Tech vs. #7. Florida
#3. Texas vs. #6. Oklahoma
#4. USC vs. #5. Penn State

Note: I know the "computers" want conference champions...but it's my post and I want these 8!

Let's see YOU do better...

College Football Weekend: Top 10 & BCS Projections

And you thought we would just "hit it and quit it" after last weekend, didn't you? Didn't you?
Not a chance.
In fact, we're back and making scrambled eggs for breakfast.

Now remember…

-Any Division I-A team is eligible for at-large consideration. The BCS has never changed its automatic qualifiers -- the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the final standings; the champions of the Big East, Big Ten, Southeastern, Pac-10, Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conferences; Notre Dame if it finishes in the top eight; and a non-BCS team that finishes in the top 12, or in the top 16 if they're ahead of a BCS champion.
-No more than two teams from any conference, no questions asked. (Sorry Big XII fans)
-No plus-one game either. However, with the addition of the “BCS Title Game”…we at least have 10 teams and not 8 invited to the party.
-With that being said, we know the BCS gets released sometime late this afternoon/early evening on FOX.
-I don’t particularly feel like “guessing” what that outcome will be. Instead, here’s the PHSports Top Ten, followed by our BCS Bowl Projections. Don’t worry; they’re based on real-life standings and not our Top Ten. You can breathe now.

PHSports Top Ten Rankings:
1) (10-0) Alabama Crimson Tide
2) (10-0) Texas Tech Red Raiders
3) (8-1) Florida Gators
4) (9-1) Texas Longhorns
5) (9-1) Oklahoma Sooners
6) (8-1) USC Trojans
7) (10-0) Utah Utes
8) (9-0) Boise State Broncos
9) (8-2) Oklahoma State Cowboys
10) (9-1) Penn State Nittany Lions

On the Cusp: Ohio State, Missouri, UNC, Georgia, & Michigan State

BCS Bowl Projected Conference Champions: (as of today)
…get ready for a laugh…

ACC -- Wake Forest
Big East -- West Virginia
Big Ten -- Michigan State
Big 12 -- Texas Tech
Pac-10 -- USC
SEC -- Alabama

Note: Wake Forest gets in b/c of its 4-2 ACC record and its tie-breaker over FSU. WVU gets the nod at 3-1 in the conference as it owns the only win between the two others at 3-1 (over Cincy, Pitt has played neither). Michigan State is tops in the Big Ten at 6-1 (Penn State, who plays the Spartans later this season, is 5-1).

Top At-Large Candidates:

Utah (highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
Florida
Texas
Boise State (second highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
BYU (third highest non-BCS automatic qualifier...over TCU)
Penn State (owns a win @ Columbus and controls own Big Ten destiny)

Stop me if you've heard this before...

Of course, it’s borderline crazy to predict "insert ACC team" in the ACC. However, the truth is that conference is only getting one team into the BCS. Ditto for the Big (L)East (same as last week). As for the SEC, LSU is done and Georgia really doesn't have any realistic path anymore. Bama and the Gators are on a collision course, both locked into the SEC Title game. The real interesting scenario is how a 2-loss Florida team would stack up in the projection-mess. Of course, I won't simply dismiss FSU giving the Gators a good game either. Nevertheless, the winner of the SEC Championship Game - assuming both win out - seems a lock to be in the national championship game. Key word: seems.

You also have to remember the “two per conference” rules with the stacked Big 12. Texas Tech still needs to overcome a trip to Norman against the Sooners, after winning two in a row after beating Texas & Oklahoma State (impressively, might I add) in Lubbock. Of course, that doesn't even cover the possibility of the Big XII Title game, which seems more and more likely to have Missouri and Chase Daniels representing the maligned Big XII North division.

As for the non-BCS schools…

It’s not too unlikely that Boise State goes undefeated and returns to the BCS. Utah passed its toughest test on Thursday nigth against TCU; however, they do host BYU later this month. If the Utes lose and the Broncos win out, they'll be the "outsider" getting in.

Both Utah and Boise State could end up in the top 7 or 8 of the BCS; however, the rules state that only one of these teams has to be chosen. Another one could be chosen for one of the "at-large" bids, yet does that seem likely? Boise State fans or Ohio State fans? Let me think.

How about this “BCS lineup”: ...sans MEGA-POWERHOUSE Oklahoma (for now) might I add...

Orange Bowl:
Wake Forest Deamon Deacons vs. West Virginia Mountaineers

Sugar Bowl:
Texas Longhorns vs. Florida Gators

Fiesta Bowl:
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Utah Utes

Note: Wouldn't it be all too ironic if the Fiesta - home to Boise State acclaim - actually did what was "right" and took Utah vs. Boise State. The ratings might be in the toilet...but I'd love it.

Rose Bowl:
USC Trojans vs. Michigan State Spartans

Note: Now the Rose Bowl gets its traditional Pac 10/Big 10 rivalry. The network is hoping my projections falter when Penn State defeats Michigan State at the end of their respective regular seasons.

BCS National Championship Game:
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Note: Remember, these aren't projections in the sense that I'm playing out every game. That's too easy and too risky. Instead, I'm trying to lay out the picture - as best as I can - as of today. If you don't like it...you don't like it.

There’s much more on the radar; however, that’s all I’m giving out today.
Hope you enjoyed the second-go-round.

InClement Weather

I can't take credit for the title; however, I can get right to my two points for today.

Something tells me he's gonna win a "few more" of these...
Credit: DoubleNation

Point #1: It's OKAY that Texas Tech leapfrogged Penn State in the AP Poll.

Texas Tech is undefeated. They play in a tougher conference. They have a more impressive win(@home vs. Texas beats out @Columbus against the Buckeyes). Penn State might end up being this year's "Auburn" if Texas Tech defies the odds and goes undefeated throughout Big 12 play (ditto for Bama in the SEC). We'll worry about that later. You can blame the system, not the polls, for that "issue". The BCS is likely to work out for an undefeated Penn State still, but then again...who knows with computers being involved.

In the end, it's cut and dry for me. Texas Tech has more checks next to it when compared directly to Penn State.

Mark these words: if anyone goes undefeated in a BCS-conference (i.e. the MAJORS), they're playing in the BCS Title Game. I said it. I meant it.

Point #2: It's NOT OKAY that Oklahoma is ranked higher than Texas in the USA Today/Coaches Poll.

If you think that there is honestly any logic behind ranking Oklahoma in front of Texas: shut up. Yeah, I said shut up. Honestly, college football polls are beyond ludicrous. (Yet, I’m here complaining about something I find irrelevant. Brilliant!) They are designed to do nothing more than sell games on national television and tick off blog writers (hello!). Like I give a damn what Georgia and Florida's rankings are. Sadly - as evident in my first point - we have to react to them and we have to worry about their seemingly countless flaws.

As for the former "World Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party", when both teams have one loss and the SEC East is for the taking, I don't need single-digits next to each team's name to get excited. To top it all off, we have these ridiculous pre-season polls which overinflate big-name programs and - even worse - prop up that year's trendy pick (i.e. Clemson). Stupid and lame are my responses to that mess.

As for the heart of this gripe, this past weekend #1 Texas traveled to #6 Texas Tech for the Longhorns' fourth top-12 showdown in four weeks. While computers may not take it into account, Texas went into hostile Lubbock - fell down 19-0 - and scored the potential game-winning touchdown with the now-infamous 1:29 left. We know the rest. We saw the drive, the dropped tipped ball, the catch, the broken tackle, and the bedlam that ensued. What the coaches (i.e. pollsters) should've seen whenever they were given their ranking's sheet is one glaring result: Saturday, October 11th in Dallas, Texas defeats Oklahoma 45-35. By 10 points on a neutral field, people. I don't care what they were ranked at the time, Texas won. By 10!

Meanwhile, one idiotic coach gives a 1-loss Oklahoma team a first-place vote? Based on what? I don't care if you think they're "better" than the teams above them. Look at their records and look at their wins and losses. If your idiotic logic reigned supreme, Georgia would've played USC for the National Championship last year. We wouldn't have witnessed the turd that was LSU/Ohio State. Despite that logic not working against me, logic damn well better win out. The Coaches poll is fraudulent for this very example.

The AP poll shouldn't take solace either. They've proven countless times how trivial they are as well. (Florida with a first-place vote is a relevant response TODAY!) Oklahoma has NO business - at least this week - being ranked before Texas. Blaming it on "when they lost" is beyond inexcusable. Not to mention, my last point, is look at their losses. Oklahoma lost to Texas, ranked below them, on a neutral field.

Is that worse than Texas losing to Texas Tech (ranked higher than BOTH Oklahoma and Texas by EVERYONE involved) on the road! No no no no no NO!

Now fix it!

College Football Weekend: Top 10 & BCS Projections

After taking a “few too many weeks” off, this writer is now in the last week of coaching middle school football (sadly, a record-breaking 6-0 season may be followed up with an 0-6 unmitigated disaster) and decided to return to college football speak.

Specifically, that of the BCS.
And to think…we might not need to drop the C this year.
Yeah, sure.

Now remember…
Any Division I-A team is eligible for at-large consideration. The BCS has never changed its automatic qualifiers -- the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the final standings; the champions of the Big East, Big Ten, Southeastern, Pac-10, Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conferences; Notre Dame if it finishes in the top eight; and a non-BCS team that finishes in the top 12, or in the top 16 if they're ahead of a BCS champion.

Remember as well…
No more than two teams from any conference, no questions asked. (Sorry Big XII fans)
No plus-one game either. However, with the addition of the “BCS Title Game”…we at least have 10 teams and not 8 invited to the party.

With that being said, we know the BCS gets released sometime late this afternoon/early evening on FOX.

I don’t particularly feel like “guessing” what that outcome will be. Instead, here’s the PHSports Top Ten, followed by our BCS Bowl Projections. Don’t worry; they’re based on real-life standings and not our Top Ten. You can breathe now.

PHSports Top Ten Rankings:
1) (9-0) Alabama Crimson Tide
2) (9-0) Penn State Nittany Lions
3) (9-0) Texas Tech Red Raiders
4) (7-1) Florida Gators
5) (8-1) Texas Longhorns
6) (8-1) Oklahoma Sooners
7) (7-1) USC Trojans
8) (8-1) Oklahoma State Cowboys
9) (9-0) Utah Utes
10) (8-0) Boise State Broncos

On the Cusp: TCU, Ohio State, Missouri, Ball State, Georgia, & UNC

BCS Bowl Projected Conference Champions: (as of today)
…get ready for a laugh…

ACC -- Maryland
Big East -- West Virginia
Big Ten -- Penn State
Big 12 -- Texas Tech
Pac-10 -- USC
SEC -- Alabama

Top At-Large Candidates:

Utah (highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
Florida
Texas
Boise State (second highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
TCU (third highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
Ohio State (top two-loss team beloved by the computers)

Shocking, right?

Of course, it’s borderline crazy to predict Maryland (3-1 in the ACC) in the ACC. However, the truth is that conference is only getting one team into the BCS. Ditto for the Big (L)East. As for the SEC, Georgia & LSU seem outsiders now – outside of an SEC Title Game upset – with Bama and the Gators on a collision course. You also have to remember the “two per conference” rules with the stacked Big 12. Texas Tech gets two ridiculous tests in a row after beating Texas in Lubbock (Ok. State & @Oklahoma) AND the rest of the conference still has several key showdowns. Meanwhile, Pac-10 supremacy is on the line with Cal vs. USC next weekend.

As for the non-BCS schools…

It’s not too unlikely that Boise State goes undefeated and returns to the BCS. Utah has a much tougher road, although they do host both TCU and BYU in the next month. The Utah/TCU matchup almost assures only one of them can get in; however, it’s not unlikely that BYU sneaks back into consideration with a strong stretch.

I can easily foresee a realistic scenario in which Boise State, BYU, and TCU are in the BCS top 12. Especially if a few favorites hold key and the “middle of the pack” can’t keep up.
Whether that’s a good or bad thing, remains to be seen.

How about this “BCS lineup”:

Orange Bowl:
Maryland Terrapins vs. West Virginia Mountaineers

Sugar Bowl:
Texas Longhorns vs. Florida Gators

Fiesta Bowl:
Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Utah Utes

Rose Bowl:
USC Trojans vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

Note: I’ve always found the Rose Bowl to be a mockery of “pageantry and tradition”. They’ll choke us with the all-too-typical Pac 10/Big 10 rivalry game; instead of USC/Boise State.

BCS National Championship Game:
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Penn State Nittany Lions

There’s much more on the radar; however, that’s all I’m giving out today.

LIVE PHSports Saturday College Football Top Ten Rankings

I know it's a jam-packed Saturday of sports (from Ryder Cup to pennant races to the second-t0-last game at Yankee Stadium to exciting WNBA action to ....), so thanks for being here!

After a freak-injury in practice on Friday (yes, I coach middle school football) and car issues today (I love being stuck with my girlfriend's '94 Ford Explorer!)...I'm trying to be there for you all.

Call it fortuitous timing or just an all-out advantage; however, knowing a few results already and having a few key games going out right now has only aided me giving you THE best top 10 possible.

As if you expected anything less?

...starting at the bottom...

10. Texas Longhorns
Their game against Arkansas postponed, the Longhorns remain hovering around most top 10 teams. They'll have their chance to make a statement on October 4th when the visit the Buffaloes in Colorado.

9. Wisconsin Badgers
After holding on 13-10 against a high-scoring Fresno State team (in California), the Badgers are off until the 28th when the visit the Big House. That October 4th meeting in Camp Randall against the Buckeyes will be HUGE for this team's Rose Bowl/National Title aspirations.

8. Texas Tech Red Raiders
UMASS in town this weekend should mean another 50-point outing. Respectability will be tested with unranked Big XII opponents Kansas State and Nebraska in the docket in the coming weeks.

7. Auburn Tigers
I can't help but love a team who wins a hard-fought SEC game 3-2. They get their first real shot at making national noise with LSU in town this weekend. Brutal, indeed.

6. LSU Tigers
Part of the aforementioned matchup with the Tigers of Auburn, the Bayou Bengals remain a relatively unknown entity...that is until this matchup goes final.

5. Florida Gators
Traveling to Knoxville, where I have to think another blowout might spell doom for national title-winning coach Phillip Fulmer, Urban Meyer's intensity and passion to stomp the Vols bleeds throughout his entire roster during this "rivalry" games. Somebody page Tee Martin to help the Vols out. At 17-0 with 3 minutes to go in the first quarter, those "experts" calling for a Vols-upset are sweating it out more than a little bit.

4. Oklahoma Sooners
Leapfrogging the Bulldogs in most national polls, Boomer Sooner looks white-hot after straight up annihilating the Huskies of Washington. While it's not the immediate game, the Red River Shootout on October 11th against the Longhorns will be the early statement game for Oklahoma to convince everyone they are a step above the Bulldogs, Gators, and (my) Tigers.

3. Missouri Tigers
27-14 against Buffalo, unless it's the Bills maybe, isn't the prettiest site. Nevertheless, the Tigers are wading through the easier part of their schedule...that is until Nebraska on October 4th. The Huskers will have a few things to say about Big XII north supremacy. Remember, Mizzou doesn't have Oklahoma, Texas Tech, or Kansas on its schedule. Don't sleep on these Tigers.

2. Georgia Bulldogs
Their west-coast trip to take on Dennis Erickson's Sun Devils took a major blow when UNLV shocked ASU late last weekened. Nevertheless, the Bulldogs have plenty to prove - especially QB Stafford - with doubters piling up and an SEC-West STACKED matchup taking precedence this weekend. I still believe in you Mark Richt.

1. USC Trojans
September 25th against Oregon State. Look out Beavers.

Dropped Out: Ohio State (USC is that good, Ohio State isn't that bad though.)
Inserted: Auburn (Win 3-2 and jump up into the 7-spot? You betcha!)
On the Fringe: Alabama, South Florida, BYU, & Wake Forest)

No need for the "5 Games" this weekend...it's all out there for ya!

Until next rankings...

Saturday Night Live: 5 College Football & 5 Non-College Football Thoughts

Okay, so technically I'm staring at my computer's clock and it's 12:52am. I know that makes it Sunday morning and SNL (which I haven't watched since Kevin Nealon was doing the Weekend Update) is over anyways.

Nevertheless, I like to set up barriers just so I can knock them down!

I missed out on tonight's USC/OSU (live, at least) to play tennis with a bitter rival. A terrible start put me in a 6-3, 6-3 hole and throwing my racket two more times than anyone else at the 16-court park. My bad! However, I dug deep down after trailing 5-3 and ended up taking the next three sets successively 7-5, 6-4, and 7-5. Two words sum up my night: boo ya.

Boo no was watching USC/OSU on fast forward (x2) with my DVR.

One word there: OUCH!

Let's get into the meat and potatoes (boy would that be good now) of my late-night rambling...

...5 College Football "Quick Hit" Thoughts...

1) USC is good. Real good. Scary good. Insanely good. While OSU was down Beanie Wells and lacked a true offensive identity, the Trojans went up and down the field at will. Honestly, this team is so talented it deserves the #1 and #2 spot in the rankings next week.

2) Georgia won on the road in South Carolina...who cares if it wasn't pretty. Moreno's TD was still a work of art and Stafford made enough NFL-quality throws. It's good to have a defense that can hold a competent team to 7 points (on the road, no less) and anytime you win at an SEC opponent, you take it.

3) 3-2? Seriously? That was the score between Auburn and Mississippi State. I remember a spectacular NFC Title game that might've ended 6-5 if it wasn't for Bert Emanuel's "non-catch" and a guy named Ricky Proehl. What a score. Who cares about analyzing the game? That's National League baseball at its best!

4) Wisconsin has Fresno State 13-7 right now, but there is a TON of time left. If they can return to Camp Randall without an L, they may be in the driver's seat (for now) in the Big Ten. Especially when considering long-term health issues for the aformentioned Beanie Wells.

5) My Red Raiders and my Tigers (of Missouri) keep beating down opponents they should. While WVU choked on me early (good win btw for ECU @ Tulane), I'm sticking with my guns on two of the "shakiest" of Big XII title contenders. Watch out haters!

...and now for the rest...

...5 College Football "Quick Hit" Thoughts...

1) K-Rod breaks Bobby Thigpen's mark. Good for him. He's uber-talented and soon to become even richer this offseason. Will his arm be tired in October, does this mark really equal some of the greats, is he better than Rivera/Papelbon...that can all wait. Let him enjoy a record-smashing season.

2) UFC and MMA has dwarfed boxing. Please, don't be afraid of this high-octane, amazing sport. Kimbo Slice vs. Ken Shamrock actually has cache. More important, I'm on the lookout for two HUGE fights (Rashad Evans v. Forrest Griffin & BJ Penn vs. Georges St. Pierre). Come on Dana White...DO IT!

3) Ike delays Houston/Baltimore. How many fantasy owners will be reeling late tonight or early tomorrow? Biggest losers have to be AJ owners. Right behind them, McGahee owners. While there are others who COULD start (Schaub, Clayton, Heap, etc.) it's those two who might hurt the most. Bye weeks later will be softened, but I could see a loss or two (by me!) because of this cancellation.

4) Charlie Weis hurt on the sideline. I am not a huge fan of Weis, but I feel for his pain. As a coach, I'll have to protect my knees (already each has been surgically repaired) from plays that extend beyond the field. I don't want to be mean, but Weis's weight is a turnoff to the point where I won't watch "entertaining" Notre Dame games (when are those again?). As a bigger guy myself, even I realize that Weis needs to quit the quick-fix surgery route and get on a routine that is much more proven and less taxing on one's heart. He's a moment away by the looks of it.

5) Wild-Card race. Wake me up in two weeks. Maybe it's my Yankee-moaning or the fact that I can't get behind some of these teams. I just am not interested one bit right now. Sorry.

That's that. Two more words: Good Night!

Until tomorrow morning...

5 Things You Might Not See Coming for Ohio State/USC

You can go anywhere - maybe outside of the local beauty salon - to gather analysis, insights, a few too many predictions on the top 5 matchup pitting the Buckeyes against the Trojans.

Not that I’ve been hanging around any beauty salons or anything.

…

Nevertheless, the title of this particular post says it all. Let’s take a look at 5 “things” you might not have considered before; yet might be vital to the game’s outcome.

In case you haven't heard, Chris "Beanie" Wells has been ruled OUT of tonight's game. Dang.

Credit: LATimes.com

1) A 3-headed platoon isn’t better than having a SUPERSTAR RB
No more than 9 carries per back, 5+ yards a carry average for each, 200+ total yards, and plenty of contrasting styles for the three USC runners (Johnson, McKnight, & Gable) against the Wahoos two weekends ago. That’s all and good, but when the big carries come…I don’t want to depend on who’s the hottest or who seems the “best” that day against the opponent. A dynamic playmaking running back never has to platoon with two other guys. USC doesn’t have a SUPERSTAR back.

2) Backup QBs MATTER
Mark Sanchez looked Heisman-good two weeks ago against UVA. Enter dynamic CB Malcolm Jenkins and an impressive veteran Buckeye defense and things might not be as easy. Even more pressing is who the Trojan backup QB is (is it Corp or Mustain?). As for the Buckeyes, impact recruit Terrelle Pryor might need a Tebow-like impact as the #2 QB if the Buckeyes can pull off the upset.

3) The Return Game of Southern Cal
It should come as no surprise to learn the Buckeyes have an elite special teams unit, especially in the kicking game. As for the Trojans, McKnight has solid ability in the return game – but I see him as a tackle-breaker over a takle-avoider – and I still wonder if USC’s kicker (Buehler, Buehler, Buehler) has the stones to nail a game-winning kick.

4) The “other” Buckeye RB named Wells
Sorry ESPN, Maurice Wells won’t be the guy to replace the now ruled out Chris “Beanie” Wells. Instead, the Buckeyes require a trio platoon of their own to perform (including the aforementioned Wells & Herron/Saine). While even Beanie wouldn’t run wild against an amazingly speedy Trojan defense, the Heisman-hopeful RB (at least three weeks ago he was) will be sorely missed for his ability to run in between the guard/tackle AND around the outside corner. Second-level speed is a MUST have for an opponent of the Trojans. Already limited with that at wideout, do the Buckeyes have the team speed to get outside or through the seems and outrun Trojan defenders downfield? I’m a little worried they don’t. Similar thoughts concerned the Buckeyes against the Gators and Tigers in the past two BCS title games.

5) Legacies
Everyone believes USC is the dominant program in the new millennium; however, the Buckeyes are within 2 total losses, 1 national championship, and a couple Heisman winners behind. Jim Tressel and his team are far from intimidated by anything the Trojans have to offer. Even playing in the Rose Bowl. That won't be the reason this game is won or lost. It's a little silly to think otherwise honestly.


MY prediction: USC wins 37-23
“If Beanie had Played”: USC wins 37-23


We’ll check back in here or there with some Saturday reactions, especially to this showdown of juggernauts. Even sans-Wells, perhaps we can have ourselves an epic-September matchup.

Until kickoff…

PHSports College Football Top 10: 1st Week of September

Under the radar is the best way to describe the past weekend in college football. That is, unless you cheer for a certain team from Morgantown.

It should come as no surprise though that the past weekend was quiet, despite a majority of the top 25 playing, when you consider it was opening weekend for an upstart organization named the NFL.

After speaking with the “higher-ups” at PHSports, I’m glad to announce that our top 10 version of our “power rankings” will be out each and every Saturday morning.

I’m waiting for you to exhale now.

Let’s not forget it allows those oh-so-interesting Thursday night matchups to get the tiniest bit of reflection!

For example…UNC’s uniforms stunk. However, they spanked Rutgers from the second quarter on BIG TIME.

As for the rankings, let’s get to it!

..starting at the bottom...

10. Texas Longhorns
Colt McCoy is healthy, Texas is completely under the radar in a loaded Big XII, and yet they still have to travel to Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and Kansas. I’ll try not to look ahead too much though. Yeah, sure.
Next Up: (Tropical Storm) Ike has delayed a not-so-intriguing matchup with a highly underachieving Arkansas squad..

9. Wisconsin Badgers
Trailing early 14-0 to Marshall, I wondered if I’d be snake bitten by propping the Badgers up too early in the season? 51 unanswered points later and the Badgers showed they can air it out almost as well as they can run it. Against Marshall, at least.
Next Up: An interesting trip to Fresno State to take on (did you know they were ranked?) Bulldogs of the West Coast today.

8. Texas Tech Red Raiders
One of the reasons I have the Red Raiders in my top 10 is because Pay is correctly critical of their “defense”. However, I’m a little excited to see that the Red Raider D only gave up 19 points to a talented Wolfpack offense.
Next Up: Cupcakes continue for Harrell, Crabtree, and company with SMU in Lubbock today.

7. Florida Gators
The Gators shut down the Cannes by 23 and I drop them two spots? Yep. While Urban Meyer’s crew didn’t do anything wrong, I wasn’t crazy about their first-half performance. I also have a lot of positive things to say about the two teams who leapfrogged the Gators.
Next Up: Tennessee hosts the Gators in a rivalry game that might deserve a few of these “”””” next weekend”.

6. LSU Tigers
Gustav caused a cancellation of their game against Troy; however, it looks like the matchup with North Texas this weekend is…on. Eyes have to be leering ahead to their matchup with Auburn (yes, another Tigers of the SEC) later this month. Can anyone say showdown?
Next Up: North Texas visits the Bayou in primetime tonight. Ouch.

5. Oklahoma Sooners
Props to Stoops and company for playing BCS-conference opponents early on, even if they are middle-of-the-pack squads (Cincy, Washington, & TCU). It will only help when the meat and potatoes of their (Big XII) schedule shows up.
Next Up: Washington and Ty Willingham host the Sooners on “Saturday the 13th”.

4. Ohio State Buckeyes
I won’t put any stock into last week’s game against the Bobcats. Why you ask? The team was missing a key ingredient (Beanie Wells), was obviously looking forward to USC (who can blame them), and was due for a letdown early in the year. That’s your one excuse for the year Buckeye fans. Enjoy it.
Next Up: Traveling to USC in the “Game of the Year” thus far. Ohio State could be an 11-1 team playing in the Rose Bowl again in January, unless they lost by 20-30+.

3. Missouri Tigers
Alright, I got axed for my WVU love. Nevertheless, I’m sticking by my Tigers. They put points on the board, have a QB full of moxy, and I love how they can score on all three sides of the ball.
Next Up: The aforementioned Wolfpack of Nevada tackles another top 10 team, traveling to Missouri this afternoon.

2. Georgia Bulldogs
They’re likely to stick at #2, depending on who winds up victorious in the USC/Ohio State matchup. Don’t pity the Bulldogs though as they’re likely to beat up on the Ole’ Ball Coach and the Gamecocks this weekend. This team is fired up and knows a trip to Arizona State and hosting the Crimson Tide awaits the next two weeks.
Next Up: Spurrier might need to do more than apologize after the Dawgs leave Saturday afternoon.

1. USC Trojans
They had the week off and they’re still amazing. The line against the Buckeyes is 10 ½ and might grow before the end of the week. What an amazing September showdown that should be.
Next Up: Please don’t make me repeat myself.


Dropped Out: West Virginia (ECU is good…but not that good.)
Inserted: Texas (It might be a mistake to underestimate a healthy Colt McCoy and the Longhorns.)
On the Fringe: Auburn, Kansas, Arizona State, Alabama, and BYU

Check out my “5 Games I’m Targeting” early Saturday morning(ish).

Until next rankings…

PHSports College Football Top 10: 1st Week of September

Psst. Looking for PHSports driven analysis of Skins/Giants? Check it out HERE!!!

...back to college football speak...


Quite an exciting opening weekend, right? While analysis galore has ensued all week, that doesn’t mean the rankings have to suffer!

While an exact post date (Monday mornings?) isn’t set in stone just yet…I’m working on it. Nevertheless, each and every week you’ll find the real top 10 of college football’s elite.

Let’s stop this incoherent babbling before it gets the best of me and get right to it!

..starting at the bottom...

10. Wisconsin Badgers
It should come as no surprise that their 38-17 whooping over Akron last weekend was dictated by 200+-yard rusher P.J. Hill. Another year, another fantastic RB in Madison. Suddenly, October 4th against Big Ten-favorite Ohio State may not only be a battle for a Rose Bowl birth, but also national title implications. Look out for a trap game this weekend though against the Herd.
Next Up: Hosting Marshall on September 6th

9. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Their next three matchups (@Nevada, SMU, & UMASS) better be ROUTES as this team will continue to fight for top 10 credibility. Nevertheless, sensational QB Harrell should have racked up 15+ TDs by that point…easy.
Next Up: Traveling to Nevada on September 6th.

8. LSU Tigers
It should come as no shock that the defending national champs completely overwhelmed Appalachian State, even at 11am (was that so bad?). This is a team scarily under the radar.
Next Up: Hosting Troy on September 6th…maybe. Gustav may unfortunately have a thing or two to say about that.

7. Oklahoma Sooners
Ever seen a 57-2 final? Probably not. Nevertheless, the Sooners remain legit national title contenders, mainly due to their loaded offense and plenty of veteran leadership on the defense. I remain a little skeptical of them not losing 2-3 games though. Am I crazy to think that?
Next Up: Cincinnati in an interesting afternoon matchup on September 6th.

6. Florida Gators
While eyes may glance over to their Sept. 20th matchup against the Vols (who had a bad loss for the SEC last Monday @UCLA), Heisman-winner Tebow and company should get back Percy Harvin (I think) against the Cannes this weekend. This matchup is obviously a real showcase opportunity for both Randy Shannon and Urban Meyer. Guess who I’m picking???
Next Up: Miami is in town on September 6th to renew their “rivalry”.

5. West Virginia Mountaineers
A lot of people are questioning me ranking the Mountaineers so highly; however, at least the Big East didn’t have as bad a weekend as the ACC. Pat White tossed 5 TDs last week (how many weeks did that take last year to equal?) and now head coach Bill Stewart gets to pick his team up for those pesky pirates of East Carolina, fresh off a big-time W over the Hokies in Charlotte.
Next Up: Traveling to ECU (not Charlotte) to take on the upset-minded Pirate on September 6th

4. Ohio State Buckeyes
Collective sigh of relief with the Beanie Wells situation? Not likely. What’s even scarier for the Buckeyes is the fact that USC (who was AMAZING against UVA) gets a week off before the Buckeyes come to the Rose Bowl. Two words: uh oh.
Next Up: The Bobcats of Ohio are in Columbus on September 6th. Do I smell a trap game???

3. Missouri Tigers
How scary was that second half against Juice “5 TD” Williams and the Illini this past Saturday night for Tiger fans? I was entertained throughout and honestly believe the Tigers have enough offense to contend with a LOADED Big XII. While they may not have the stoppers to keep this ranking for as long as I anticipated, I love this team and everything about them. Jeremy Maclain may be the best ticket in college football this season.
Next Up: SMS (that’s Southeast Missouri State) comes to Columbia September 6th.

2. Georgia Bulldogs
I go ahead and prop up the Dawgs as my pre-season #1 and then proceed to knock them down below the Trojans after one measily week. While this is obviously more an ode to the Trojans, you better believe me when I say that I’m not knocking the performance of Stafford and co. this past weekend. You have to love this stat line for Knowshon Moreno: 8 rushes, 59 yards, 3 TDs. Save him for the brunt of the schedule Mark Richt, please. The injury to DT Jeff Owens hurts…but won’t cost them any of their half-dozen marquee games.
Next Up: CMU is in Athens on September 6th.

1. USC Trojans
I really can’t add anything to Mark Sanchez’s awesome performance with Track Star U in Charlottesville except…I could’ve been there (fantasy drafts always take precendence). While UVA is far from dynamic, the Trojans didn’t flinch en route to an ugly beatdown of the Wahoos on their opposite coast. While the health of Beanie Wells will be a MAJOR issue in two weeks (or maybe just an excuse), I still can’t help but heavily favor the Trojans against the Buckeyes – in the Rose Bowl – in two weeks. What a matchup that "should" be. The Trojan secondary is my major focus that night.
Next Up: A likely showdown for the #1 spot in these rankings (and several others) in two weeks on September 13th in primetime against the Buckeyes.

Dropped Out: Clemson (annihilated by Alabama in Atlanta…SHOCKER)
Inserted: Wisconsin (RAN all over Akron at home)
On the Fringe: Auburn, Texas, Arizona State, Alabama, and BYU

5 Games I’m Targeting this Weekend
#2. Ohio State vs. Ohio
-Obviously the Beanie Wells situation makes the box score important. With him not in the lineup, I’m interested in checking out the depth at that position in Columbus.

#8 West Virginia vs. East Carolina
-Could the Pirates go 2-0 against ranked opponents? The weather is going to be a MAJOR factor as well.

#5. Florida vs. Miami (Fl)
-A real litmus test for everyone involved. How far are the Cannes away still? 21.5 points???

#12. Texas Tech vs. Nevada
-This game could easily surpass 100 points. Seriously.

#15. Arizona State vs. Stanford
-Rudy Carpenter fascinates me for some reason. Enough said.


Until next top 10…

PHSports College Football Top 10: Pre-Season Edition

Mid-way through last college football season, Pay was nice enough - or busy enough - to allow me to take over his top 10 college football weekly rankings.

I apologize sincerely for what followed...

The only idea (in HISTORY!) worse than me taking over these rankings...
Credit: Cinemotions

While I might’ve butchered them a bit too often…I’ll try my best to steer the ship a little straighter this season.

Sadly, the only thing more ridiculous than the media or coaches ranking the top teams in a pre-season poll...is me doing it. Fortunately that hasn’t stopped me before and it won’t now!

BEHOLD! My pre-season top 10!!!

Clement's back doing college football rankings? That's hot!

..starting at the bottom (or is it the top?)...

10. Clemson Tigers

-I’ll never believe in a Clemson collegiate team, particularly their football or basketball teams. Nevertheless, they're going to earn the last spot in my top 10. Why? Even though I have SERIOUS questions about the ACC – especially that team in Blacksburg – the Tigers do appear to be the cream of the ACC crop. Despite opening up with a tricky home game against Alabama, the Tigers are likely to storm through September and remain on this list for quite some time.

9. LSU Tigers

-I’m not sold that without Ryan Perilloux the Bayou Bengals will be any worse off than they are now. In fact - with complete confidence in Les Miles and their incredible depth on both sides of the ball - the defending BCS champs have to be considered prohibitive favorites out of a loaded SEC West.

8. Texas Tech Red Raiders

-Their schedule is underrated (trips to A&M, Kansas, and Oklahoma are nightmarish); however, Graham Harrell is a dynamic QB and Michael Crabtree is everything the pundits wished Calvin Johnson would be. Yeah, how’s that for a statement? The out-of-conference lineup is a absolute joke though.

I can't remember the last time I enjoyed WR-related hype like this before.
Oh yeah...
Credit: SI.com

7. Oklahoma Sooners

-Impact playmakers return all over the offense and defense. Meanwhile, we already know Bob Stoops is the best at winning Big XII championships. Problem is: they’ve stunk up the joint in recent bowl history and I might be willing to give a different Big XII team a slight nod over them this year (more below). Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Tech have officially caught up with the Sooners and Longhorns in the top tier of the Big XII.

6. Florida Gators

-Much like Hansbrough @ UNC, Tebow will try to repeat as the nation’s top trophy collector in his sport (sub Heisman for Wooden/Naismith) while attempting to prop his team on his shoulders squarely into the national title picture. While it won’t be easy in a ridiculously jam-packed SEC, Tebow is likely to tee off against Tennessee (is that rivalry completely faded yet?) and start a strong early-season campaign for another unfathomable 30/25 performance. Yes, Tebow went for 32 passing TDs and 25 rushing TDs last season. Man...

5. West Virginia Mountaineers

-Some places have been selling the Mountaineers short; however, realizing the downright awesome potential of HB Noel Devine (especially with Slaton gone) will be a lot of fun for fans in Morgantown. Head coach Bill Stewart clearly has this team behind him and REMEMBER that the Big East is still a BCS conference. While even one loss could derail any title hopes for WVU, why can’t this team steamroll through their conference and follow sensational senior-QB Pat White (who likely won’t see a snap at the position in the NFL) to BCS glory? I suppose an interesting October date hosting Auburn might answer that question earlier than expected.

If Pay gets Blake Griffin...I'm taking Devine!
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

4. Ohio State Buckeyes

-Does this mean I’m assuming they’ll lose in LA to USC? Yes, it does. However, I’m also assuming a likely 11-1 season for Jim Tressel's squad that should be more than enough to plant them directly in their third straight BCS title game. Don't forget that Chris "Beanie" Wells just might return the Heisman to the RB-position and the Buckeyes (hello Eddie George!). Meanwhile, Malcolm Jenkins (yes, Armin is right about this) has #1-overall pick talent (not just potential) in the 2009 NFL Draft talent (even at the corner position).

Can somebody get Brutus an HGH test?

Credit: MySpace

3. Missouri Tigers

-Chase Daniel is a bonafide winner and their playmakers are borderling sick-nasty. While there will be obstacles throughout their Big XII schedule, I am – for now – crowning the Tigers the paper Big XII champs. Look out for primetime fireworks against Juice Williams and the Illini in primetime at the end of August.

2. USC Trojans

-Their early-season showdown against Ohio State should be fantastic (hopefully Texas/OSU in ’05 worthy). While Mark Sanchez isn’t John David Booty (especially with a potentially serious injury), USC stockpiles talent on both sides of the ball worthy to the U's programs of Johnson and Davis. While I wont put them at #1, I will if they dismantle the Buckeyes (in the Rose Bowl...before the Rose Bowl).

1. Georgia Bulldogs

Yes, perhaps I’ve drank the Kool-Aid as well.
Here are a few points to my selection...

A) I don’t want to project my “pre-season top 10” with only Georgia being penalized for being in the SEC (East, no less).

B) Knowshon Moreno, in my humble opinion, is the most talented back in college football since a healthy Adrian Peterson (yes, even over Chris "Beanie" Wells).

C) Stafford will be a legit NFL quarterback. Mark it down.

D) Mark Richt is the perfect coach to lead this Georgia squad – even if they happen to suffer a loss or two (remember, LSU finished 11-2 as BCS champs) – to its first title in FOREVER.

E) I won’t penalize them for demolishing Hawaii in last year’s Sugar Bowl. Not a chance.

F) In the end, Georgia has a TON of talent, no fear of its SEC competition (easily the most TALENTED conference in the entire country), and tremendous talent on both interrior lines.

Enough said…for now.

Hope you enjoyed the first ride. The line for the next one might be a bit longer. SMILE!!!

No, he wasn't another Penn State player arrested.
This is what mugshots were made for!!!
Credit: Smoking Gun

Until next time…

2009 NFL Pre-Season Mock Draft

A mock draft so early? While I do look at this as a true attempt at a mock draft, it is also somewhat of a preview into some of the top players to watch in college this season. A few things needed to be taken into consideration when I did this mock. First, we don't know how the NFL season will pan out. Therefore, choosing a draft order was a bit of an adventure. First, I chose the handful of teams that I knew would finish at the bottom of the league. Then I picked my playoff teams. Everything else in the middle was a wild guess. Second, picking the playoff teams proved tricky, as I was tempted to pick similar teams to last year's playoffs. Instead, I decided to throw a few eyebrow-raisers for the sake of keeping it interesting. Note that while there are a couple of sophomores in this draft, they are redshirts and eligible for the 2009 draft. This in no way means that they will enter the draft. However, for the sake of keeping things interesting, I included them as well. Here's how it looks, and I'm looking forward to your comments.

Michael Crabtree (Photo Courtesy of DayLife)

1. Atlanta: Michael Crabtree, WR - Texas Tech
The Falcons need help in two places, WR & CB. The bigger need is at CB, and I don't see Jenkins going first. So the Falcons nab a redshirt sophomore who will prove that he's the real deal this season.


2. Miami: George Selvie, LB/DE - South Florida
The junior LB/DE reminds me somewhat of DeMarcus Ware, a former Parcells pick. He…oops…Ireland should have no problems making Selvie the pick. Selvie's 31.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks put him at the Derrick Thomas/Tedy Bruschi level in college.


3. Kansas City: Malcolm Jenkins, CB - Ohio State
Corners don't go #1, but Jenkins has that kind of talent. He should step in across Brandon Flowers during the KC youth movement. Arguably the best CB prospect coming out of college since Shawn Springs.


4. Oakland: Andre Smith, OT - Alabama
Smith is as athletic as they come at LT, and that seems to be popular in the draft these days. His arrival will move Kwame Harris back over to the RT position.


5. Baltimore: Tyson Jackson, DE - Louisiana State
He's a Trevor Pryce clone at DE in the 3-4. Jackson is versatile enough as a 3-4 end to get after the passer when called on.


6. St. Louis: Michael Oher, OT - Mississippi
This draft is top-heavy with offensive tackles, and teams are needy for them. Look for Oher to go to the Rams and make Orlando Pace expendable


7. Cincinnati: Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB - Ohio State
He goes about 230 and has no problem running up the middle. His speed is deceptive, until you see DBs attempting to chase him down the field. He also receives good grades on his field vision and his pass blocking. Don't be surprised if a RB-needy team trades up to the top 5 for him.


8. Green Bay: Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois
Green Bay could look to a DE that is rising up the charts, however they go for a CB. Davis is the 2009 version of Leodis McKelvin. He's a physical corner who fits the Green Bay defense.


9. Philadelphia (from Carolina): Brian Cushing, LB - Southern Cal
The Eagles are in desparate need of help at the OLB position. Cushing would be a mainstay on that defense. His length and athleticism are unmatched at the LB position in this draft.


10. Denver: Jim Laurinaitis, LB - Ohio State
The Broncos could look at a safety, but they can't pass on Laurinaitis if he's there. Laurinaitis could be the captain of that defense as a rookie.


11. Detroit: Greg Hardy, DE - Mississippi
The Lions are weakest at DE. If they don't address the situation in free agency, we could see a DE going at their pick.


12. Washington: Rey Maualuga, LB - Southern Cal
While London Fletcher-Baker is the heart of the Washington Defense, he's also going to be 34 on draft day in 2009. Maualuga brings the same heart to the game, and could learn a lot from Fletcher-Baker.


13. Tennessee: Percy Harvin, WR - Florida
The Titans should not settle for the WR corps they have, and should not pass up an opportunity like having Harvin fall into their laps. Harvin will force Tim Tebow to take 2nd billing on the Gators offense.


14. Houston: Knowshon Moreno, RB - Georgia
Moreno has the talent to end up in a neck-and-neck battle with Wells over who is the top back in the draft. Moreno has a lot more to prove however.


15. New York Jets: Matt Stafford, QB - Georgia
The strong-armed QB from the preseason favorite to win the National Championship is the first QB off the board. If Stafford displays better accuracy than last season, he could be looking at the top 5 picks in the draft. This pick is also based on the fact that the Jets seem to have lost faith in Clemens and Favre is only a band-aid for a year or two.


16. Seattle: Eugene Monroe, OT - Virginia
When did Virginia become a left tackle factory? Monroe could push Walter Jones out early. Monroe is a carbon copy of D'Brickashaw Ferguson. They play the same athletic style. He can cover a QB's blind side as well as anyone in this draft.


17. Tampa Bay: Ciron Black, OT - Louisiana State
The Bucs can't survive forever with Luke Petitgout at the left tackle spot. Black should come in and start on day one.


18. Arizona: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR - Maryland
Another freakishly athletic Maryland product (Shawne Merriman & Vernon Davis). It's very rare that a WR can be over 6 feet and weigh over 200 pounds, and have the ability to create space, all while possessing the type of speed that makes them a threat to take the ball to the house every time he touches it. The Fitz situation might make this pick a necessity.


19. Chicago: Taylor Mays, S - Southern Cal
Mike Brown has had too many major injuries and Daniael Manning hasn't quite turned into the player that the Bears wanted him to be. So they go after the top talent at safety in the draft. Mays is the closest thing to Sean Taylor that there is out there. He has size, speed and has no problem helping against the run. His coverage ability isn't as polished as Taylor's was coming out of Miami, but his potential should keep him high on most charts.


20. Pittsburgh: Victor "Macho" Harris, CB - Virginia Tech
"Macho" brings two important things to the table. He's a ball-hawking cornerback with a bit of an attitude (which you want in a corner), and he's an effective return man. Harris could live up to the expectations that Coulclough couldn't.


21. San Francisco: Michael Johnson, LB/DE - Georgia Tech
Johnson is the perfect fit as an outside backer in the 3-4 defense. He's a speed rusher who makes himself at home in opposing backfields. His pass rush skills are probably second only to Selvie in this draft. If he could add another 10-15 pounds while keeping his speed and agility intact, he would be a prototypical 3-4 OLB.


22. Minnesota: Alex Boone, OT - Ohio State
Bryant McKinnie has basically worn out his welcome, and the team needs to figure out a replacement. Boone is no consolation. As mentioned earlier, this draft is full of top prospects at the OT position. Boone has the size and strength to move the line, and the ability to keep bull rushers off his QB.


23. Cleveland: Mike Mickens, CB - Cincinnati
The Browns didn't play their cards well, and are going into the 2008 season with an extremely thin corps of CBs. They must address this position next offseason with at least a top flight free agent and a top draftee.


24. Philadelphia: Myron Rolle, S - Florida State
Dawkins is up there in years, and Quinton Mickell doesn't have much upside. Rolle has great pedigree and can fill in at either safety spot.


25. Buffalo: Brandon Pettigrew, TE - Oklahoma State
There is debate whether Pettigrew or Shawn Nelson is the top TE in this class. There are some scouts out there that think Pettigrew is another Jeremy Shockey.


26. Jacksonville: Fili Maola, DT - Southern Cal
Henderson and Meier will be in their 30s, and the team will need a DT to bring in as the 3rd man in the rotation to eventually groom as a starter. Maola is the top DT prospect on the board and would fit in nicely on the Jags


27. New Orleans: Duke Robinson, OG - Oklahoma
Robinson is a road grader who keeps defenders out of the backfield. He can probably even play some right tackle if needed. He could move right into Nesbit's left guard spot and spend a decade dominating there. Don't rule out a DT here.


28. Indianapolis: Sen'Derrick Marks, DT - Auburn
Marks fits the Colts defense like a glove. He's the size of a DT, but is really a tweener DT/DE. He can get after the QB by collapsing the pocket from the inside.


29. New York Giants: Brandon Spikes, LB - Florida
Spikes can play inside or outside in Spagnola's defense. This is a steal of a pick, however because of Laurinaitis, Maualuga and Cushing, Spikes will be available later than his true value.


30. San Diego: Phil Loadholt, OT - Oklahoma
Loadholt blocks out the sun, and is not shy about throwing his weight around. He will probably settle in at right tackle in San Diego where Olivea's drug addiction forced him out, and Clary isn't quite the answer.


31. New England: D.J. Moore, CB - Vanderbilt
Not only can he help out the Pats with depth at the CB position, he can also return kicks.


32. Dallas: Brandon Gibson, WR - Washington State
Gibson would make a good compliment to T.O., but the difference is he's an Academic All-American. On that merit alone, many can expect him to handle himself with much more self-respect on and off the field.