Looking Back @ the College Football Season and Forward to the Draft

Before anyone makes more predictions, they should review the ones that they already have made. It is for this reason that after every sport season for which I make predictions, I go back and review those predictions. To see what I got right and what I got oh so horribly wrong. I will start out there with my two sets of college football predictions and then go into my 1st bit of talking about the NFL Draft. Buckle up, because it is the accountability thread. You get to say you told me so, if you told me so that is...

For college football, I did two prediction posts. There was one full of ACC predictions and one for the entire country. Both sets of predictions were filled with a lot of accurate statements, some 1/2 true statements, some inaccurate statements, and some categorically false statements. Let's start with the good....

Derwin James is/was FSU's best player on defense. It has been widely acknowledged. Unfortunately, for him and for my predictions, he got injured for the duration of the season in week 2. While that slighlty affected many of my predictions, my overall one about the ACC Atlantic rang true. There were three really good teams in the ACC Atlantic. FSU finished 8th with a New Years 6 bowl win, Clemson won the national championship, and Louisville spent most of the season in the Top 5 until a late season collapse. That Louisville team was the most dangerous for FSU early for numerous reasons and they took FSU to the woodshed. I was correct in saying that game would be FSU's most likely loss. I also called Lemar Jackson as a serious Heisman contender and said that he would be named player of the year. Deondre Francois was the top newcomer for the ACC also as he won the ACC Rookie of the Year. I hit on 5/11 1st team All ACC Offense predictions. There were also 5/11 correct on the defensive side this year.

Nationally, I did not do as well as I did in the ACC, but I still had some success. My 5 darkhorse teams were all hits. The worst one of the group was a 7-6 team that knocked off Louisville. Every other darkhorse team won at least 9 games and all exceeded expectations. Wisconsin was tops with an 11 win season and New Years 6 bowl win, but Oklahoma State also had 10 wins. The big 12 missed the playoffs as predicted. I was correct that the SEC East favorite, Tennessee, would not win the division. Washington made the playoff and were my one correct prediction there. While I missed them in the playoff, I said Alabama and Clemson had a better chance to win the championship than most the teams I had in and that proved true. All 10 of the teams I had predicted to have a great shot at the title were contenders at one point as well, with the exception of LSU. Clemson v. Florida State and Florida State v. Ole Miss were both thrilling matchups as predicted. I had one Heisman finalist correct (Baker Mayfield) even though that finalist shouldn't have been really invited. On offense I hit on 3/11 AP All American selections. Defensively, I only had Alabama standout Jonathan Allen correct. Now, for things I can justify getting wrong.

The easiest one to justify is both FSU's record and Derwin James' postseason awards. First in regards to the record, I said Clemson would be a major challenge and that the ACC was loaded. Derwin James injury in week 2 changed the complexion of the season. He is that special of a talent. Because he was injured for basically the entire season, he was unable to collect any postseason awards.
LSU's season I have no justification for, but Leonard Fournette didn't have the season he was expecting because he didn't have the same volume he has had in the past. 6.5 yards a carry is incredible, but he had 171 fewer attempts this season than last season.

Now the predictions I just can't justify they were just bad....
LSU winning the SEC! What the heck was I thinking. Bama owns the SEC. LSU lost to one of my darkhorse teams in week 1 (Wisconsin) and struggled. They would ultimately fire their coach.
Only 1 All-American correct prediction on defense. Embarrassing! Will have to watch more film next season.
Texas fired their coach and lost to Kansas! Yikes! They did not take a step forward as expected and Charlie Strong ultimately lost his job because of it.
Alabama v. USC was not a good game. Alabama dismantled USC in a way that most Tide fans didn't even expect to happen.
John O'Korn was not a Heisman darkhorse candidate. He was not even the starting QB at the end of the season for Michigan. This is one of the worst predictions of all-time. At least I had him as a darkhorse candidate and not a finalist though.
Miami actually exceeded my expectations too. They finished ranked and 9-4. I predicted 7-5 and for them to be a disappointment. They were not. Richt did a fine job.

My predictions were pretty solid despite only hitting on 1/4 playoff teams. Most of them were at least partially true or I had solid justification for them. Now onto the draft!!!

There will be a lot more about the draft to come, but let me get it started by just briefly talking about the top Seminoles on the board.

Dalvin Cook    RB
Projection: Top 10 Pick
I project that Dalvin Cook will be a top 10 pick and the 1st RB off the board. He is one of the most complete backs to come out in a long time. Cook is the whole package. He can run, has elite speed, has hands, and can block. This guy is a special player and a game changer. I hope he lasts until the Bucs as a Tampa fan, but don't see it happening. More to come on Dalvin in later entries.

DeMarcus Walker       DE
Projection: Late 1st
DeMarcus Walker did himself well returning to school as he was the Seminoles team leader on and off the field. It also did not hurt that he led the nation in sacks. This guy is a classic example of the fact that it can benefit a player to return to school. His draft stock soared following his senior season. I just hope the guy gets into the best situation for him. Walker led the first Seminoles class to go 4-0 against both Miami and Florida. This guy is a winner, and his work ethic could really help a lot of teams for the 2017 season....

- Noland

2016 NFL Season Predictions

I understand that these predictions are a week late. That is okay. I missed my fantasy draft while my family was sick. I didn't want to give away who I thought was going to have a big season while I tried to make a few trades. Now, since those trades have failed, I will just go ahead and post this....

Note: I did not change any predictions based on week 1 results. I left them alone.

The NFL season is here and that is good news for football fans everywhere.While I prefer the college game personally, I get jacked for NFL as well. Since the season is here, it is prediction time.

NFC East
Washington Redskins (10-6)
New York Giants (9-7)
Dallas Cowboys (7-9)
Philadelphia Eagles (5-11)

NFC North
Green Bay Packers (12-4)
Minnesota Vikings (10-6)
Detroit Lions (7-9)
Chicago Bears (4-12)

NFC South
Carolina Panthers (11-5)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-5)
Atlanta Falcons (7-9)
New Orleans Saints (6-10)

NFC West
Arizona Cardinals (13-3)
San Francisco 49ers (8-8)
Seattle Seahawks (8-8)
St. Louis Rams (1-15)

AFC East
New England Patriots (12-4)
Buffalo Bills (8-8)
New York Jets (7-9)
Miami Dolphins (4-12)

AFC North
Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
Baltimore Ravens (10-6)
Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
Cleveland Browns (2-14)

AFC South
Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)
Houston Texans (10-6)
Indianapolis Colts (7-9)
Tennessee Titans (1-15)

AFC West
Oakland Raiders (13-3)
Denver Broncos (9-7)
Kansas City Chiefs (8-8)
San Diego Chargers (6-10)

MVP
Antonio Brown WR  Pittsburgh Steelers

Brown will have an epic year for receiving. He will eclipse the 2,000 yard mark, while leading the Steelers to the division title. Expect big things from Brown in 2016. This guy will be an unstoppable force. 2016 will be the year of the receiver as well. We will have some record setting marks from a few of these guys.

Coach of the Year
Dirk Koetter Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Leading the Bucs to the playoffs will be seen as a major accomplishment outside of Tampa. While much of those in the region will give the credit to Winston, Koetter will deservedly also get a great deal of praise. That praise will result in Koetter winning this award.

5 Bold Predictions outside of records
1) The top three receivers in TDs will be Antonio Brown, Amari Cooper, and Mike Evans in some order.
2) There will be at least one 2000 yard receiver. My pick of Antonio Brown for MVP is becoming more and more clear here.
3) No rookie 1000 yard receiver. In the year of the WR, rookies will fail to emerge yet.
4) Jameis Winston will lead the league in at least one major passing category. TDS, rating, yards, completions, at least one of those categories.
5) The Titans will have the 1st two picks in the NFL Draft next draft. The two worst teams will be the Titans again (which I had last year) and the LA Rams. Tennessee owns the 1st round selection for both teams. So they should get out of the cellar after this season.

NFL Playoffs Round 1
Panthers over Vikings
Buccaneers over Redskins
Patriots over Texans
Ravens over Jaguars

Round 2
Cardinals over Buccaneers
Panthers over Packers
Steelers over Patriots
Raiders over Ravens

NFC Championship
Cardinals over Panthers

In a rematch of last years NFC Championship the Cardinals take it this time with a healthy honey badger and an improved pass rush. For the Cardinals its put up or shut up time. All or Nothing.

AFC Championship
Raiders over Steelers

I may be a year early on the Raiders, but I am fairly confident that they will make the playoffs and make an impact. The Steelers have the right mix of athleticism and veteran presence this year, so they will be a force. I think the Raiders win a close one and advance to the Super Bowl behind the emergence of Amari Cooper who as I said earlier will have a monster season.

Super Bowl

Cardinals over Raiders

It is finally time for the Cardinals to be at the top of the mountaintop. I think they are finally ready to do it and make that big move. In a matchup like this, the secondary of the Cardinals gives them the edge. Derek Carr and Amari Cooper will have big seasons, but if a team has the tools to stop them it is the Arizona Cardinals. Patrick Peterson is the real deal and he will be Super Bowl MVP. Peterson will make an impact in not only the passing game, but the return game as well. He will shut down a guy that will threaten for league MVP and the Cardinals will hoist the Lombardi trophy for the 1st time ever!

-Noland

2016-2017 NCAA Football Predictions

Another glorious football season is upon us. Fall is practically here and our favorite sport will be played before you know it. Since it is so close, that can only mean that it is prediction time again. So my predictions for the 2016-2017 football season are what this entry is all about. Last week, I focused on ACC predictions and this week it will focus on the national predictions as a whole

After another championship run, most people are on the Alabama bandwagon, but not this guy. Despite their manageable schedule and incredible amount of talent returning, they are losing more than people realize and it is very difficult to repeat. Something can and will go wrong for the Tide. Who does that leave us to compete? Let's start with some teams that nobody is talking about that could have an impact on the College Football Playoff that I have outside of my playoff and most people have outside their top 10 teams.

The Darkhorse Teams

5. Utah Utes
The Pac 12 seems wide open, especially in the South. That opens the door for defending South co-champ Utah, a team nobody is talking about. Utah has their offensive line returning and most of their defense. A defense that typically is one of the best in the Pac 12. I am not sold on UCLA and should the Bruins stumble, that opens the door for a talented Utah team to play for the Pac title. These defending champs are not getting nearly enough credit as most outlets have them outside the top 25.

4. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
As mentioned in the ACC preview, nobody is talking about the yellow jackets. Nobody! Now, they won't win the ACC, but they will be much improved over last year's team in my opinion and will make a mark in the top 25. They are being picked near the bottom, so they are definitely a darkhorse to do some damage in my view.

3. Oklahoma State Cowboys
Picked by many outlets to finish 3rd in the Big 12, I can easily see the Cowboys winning the Big 12 and crashing the college football playoff. The Cowboys won 10 games last year and have 16 starters back including their QB. Honestly, I am shocked that they are not being talked about more. 9 wins seems a lock and 10+ is a near lock. Road Trips to TCU and Oklahoma could be all that is standing in OK State's way of making a playoff bid.

2. Kentucky Wildcats
The Kentucky Wildcats have fallen short of a bowl bid the past few seasons with 5-7 finishes. This year will be different. They are picked to finish 4th in the SEC East at best and lower in some outlets. However, these guys can finally start to rise up the ladder in the SEC this season. They now boast the brilliant offensive staff from Cincinnati and they have the overwhelming majority of their offensive starters returning. Additionally, they get to play South Carolina, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State at home this year. The Wildcats will go to their first bowl game since 2010 this season, the question is how good of a bowl game it will be.

1. Wisconsin Badgers
The Badgers are predicted to finish 3rd in the Big 10 West. They are predicted 30th overall. These guys are predicted to not be a factor at all, but they are a powerhouse. They do lose a QB and a defensive coordinator, but they are in a wide open Big 10 West. Good Wisconsin teams are really known for grueling offensive lines and they return 7 offensive lineman with starting experience. Their starting runningback, Corey Clement, is also back after missing most of last season due to injury. A healthy Clement behind an experienced offensive line should make the Badgers running game quite formidable again in 2016. The running game lacking last year is a reason the program dropped off a bit last year, but it won't be an issue in 2016. We can find out early how formidable Wisconsin is with a Week 1 match-up against LSU. Should they win that one, the Badgers are a legit playoff threat.

5 Burning Questions Around the Country

5. Does the Big 12 get a playoff bid?
Short answer to this question is no, but I will give a longer answer. Oklahoma is strongly favored in the Big 12, but they likely won't go undefeated in conference doing so. They have non-conference games against Houston and Ohio State as well. This information leads you to believe that the Sooners will lose at least 2 games and the Big 12 will be on the outside looking in come playoff time. No conference championship game hurts the conference a lot and unless Oklahoma or Texas have an equal or better resume than other contenders they will be left out. Other Big 12 teams won't get as much benefit of the doubt as Oklahoma or Texas and will have to have resumes much better than other contenders to get in.

4. Is Tennessee The Favorite In the SEC East?
Most are predicting Tennessee around the country, but I just don't see it the more I look. As bad as the SEC East is, Georgia is better than Tennessee. Kirby Smart is a better coach than Butch Davis and Tennessee has to play Alabama. I just can't see Tennessee besting Georgia in the East.

3. Can Michigan State reload quickly?
Michigan State has been one of the most consistently great teams in college football. They have been excellent for several years now. Last season they parlayed their success into a college football playoff berth. However, this season they lost two starters on the offensive line including one of their best offensive lineman in school history (Jack Conklin), their number 1 receiver, and one of the best quarterbacks in school history (Connor Cook). Are 5 returning starters on defense enough to keep them in the race in a tough Eastern division?
They could be a factor, but I'd expect them no better than 3rd with Michigan and Ohio State in the mix.

2. How Much Will Washington Breakout?

Washington looks like they are headed in the right direction and they are trending upward. How far upward though? Are they contending for a division title, winning their division, or winning their conference?
You will see shortly that I am bullish on the Huskies and expect them to win the Pac. They are a team I expect to make a lot of noise in 2016. Their excellent coach Chris Peterson is a big reason why.

1. Will Texas take a step forward in 2016?
Texas is a team that many people are unsure of this season. It seems they have some talent now in place and could take a leap forward under Charlie Strong. Most people are predicting around 7 wins for the Longhorns and a finish around 50 in the country. My prediction is that they will take a step forward and win 8 or 9 games. They will finish 4th in the Big 12 behind Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and TCU.

10 Teams Most Likely to Win the Title

10. Louisville Cardinals

Louisville edges out Houston for my #10 team most likely to win the title. Houston will also have a shot, but has a tough nonconference schedule and is still a Group of 5 team. There is a lot for Houston to overcome, but they will be formidable and likely win the American Conference. Houston needs to run the table to get in tough and Louisville can get in with one loss if they win the ACC. I do not expect Louisville to beat either FSU, or Clemson, but it is possible. The #1 thing working in Louisville's favor is that they get FSU early and on short rest @ home.

9. Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State has a lot of pieces to replace, but as much as I do not like him, Urban Meyer is a winner. Additionally, Ohio State is a powerhouse program that reloads. They very well could compete for a title again in 2016.

8. Oklahoma Sooners

Winning the Big 12 would get them in the conversation. I think they fall just short, but they certainly have the talent to win it all. They have to have better resumes than the other conference champs due to no conference title game. The name brand doesn't hurt them like other big 12 schools though.

7. Stanford Cardinal

The most consistent Pac 12 team with one of the best coaches and best players in the nation certainly deserves mention. I expect them to finish 2nd to another Pac 12 school, but would not be surprised if they won the Pac.

6. Michigan Wolverines

I am picking Michigan to win the Big 10, but believe they will lose to either the SEC or ACC Champ. Getting to the playoff vaults them up the list.

5. Washington Huskies

Take what I said to Michigan, but apply it to the Pac 12. I do believe though that these guys are going to be a force this year. This is my ultimate sleeper and they will be a major threat to the national title.

4. Clemson Tigers

I expect the Tigers to be left out of the playoffs, but they could easily not only get in, but win it all. These guys are super talented and DeShaun Watson is an incredible player. Don't be shocked if they win it all. That Clemson-FSU game is the game of the year.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide

I am picking LSU over Alabama and that seems blasphemous. Alabama has been the class of college football this decade. They have won 4 of 7 National Championships. It would surprise nobody if they won again this year. I suspect they will fall short having to replace some key pieces. Just remember though that Alabama does not rebuild they reload. This school has incredible athletes.

2. LSU Tigers

Behind one of the best players in the nation, LSU will be back in 2016. They will compete and could easily win the national championship. Do not let it surprise you if they pull it off.

1. Florida State Seminoles

Florida State is returning every single offensive starter from 2016 including the explosive Dalvin Cook. Every single starter from one of the most talented rosters in the country. From a team that went to a New Years 6 bowl and had Clemson on the ropes last year on the road. They get Clemson on the road and have the opportunity to make a statement against the SEC in Week 1. Florida State is my pick to win the national championship and I love their roster. Their coach is not too shabby either!

The Playoff Teams
This is not just the same as the teams most likely to win. I expect the ACC or SEC Champion to take home the crown, but only one team from each league will likely make the playoffs. It has only been conference champions to date, and I expect that trend to continue.

4. Michigan Wolverines

3. Washington Huskies

2. LSU Tigers

1. Florida State Seminoles
I told you what I thought would happen in the previous section, but still thought you should see the actual playoff teams I am predicting. I believe that FSU will win it all! It would not surprise me to see either 2 ACC teams or 2 SEC teams depending on their records. I would be shocked though if either conference is left out of the playoffs. Due to the depth at the top of each, they should compete.

5 Best Regular Season Matchups

5. 9/17 Florida State @ Louisville ABC Noon Eastern

4. 9/30 Stanford @ Washington   ESPN 6PM Pacific

3. 11/26 Michigan @ Ohio State

2. 11/5  Alabama @ LSU

1. 10/29 Clemson @ Florida State

5 Best Week 1 Matchups

5. Saturday 9/3 Alabama v. USC (AT&T Stadium) 8PM ET ABC

4. Saturday 9/3 North Carolina v. Georgia (Georgia Dome) 530PM ET ESPN

3. Saturday 9/3 LSU v. Wisconsin (Lambeau Field) 330PM ET ABC

2. Saturday 9/3 Oklahoma v. Houston (NRG Stadium) Noon ET ABC

1. Monday 9/5  Florida State v. Ole Miss (Citrus Bowl) 8 PM ET ESPN

Heisman Darkhorses NOBODY is Talking About

5. Boom Williams      RB     Kentucky
The Kentucky runningback is starting behind an offensive line returning 4 of 5 starters in an offense that is destined to have better play-calling than in the past. Many people will not see it coming, but he will be a contender for the All-SEC team and thus could make a push into the Heisman picture. A favorable schedule by SEC standards helps.

4. John O' Korn    QB    Michigan

O' Korn has not even officially won the job yet. Quarterback is the biggest question on Michigan's roster. So how is he a Heisman darkhorse?
I expect him to be the quarterback in an explosive offense of a team that makes the playoffs. Should Michigan be as good as I think they will be and should he win the job, then he will likely be in the race. The Houston transfer has 34 touchdowns as a college quarterback already and looks to double that amount this season. He very well could be one to watch.

3. James Washington   WR   Oklahoma State
Should Oklahoma State sneak into the playoff picture or make it in, this becomes a real possibility. Washington is predicted to be an All-American by me, but it is possible he can be more. With Mason Rudolph at QB in the offensive friendly Big 12, I expect this offense to be quite explosive. Washington will be the star and could emerge as a Heisman candidate. This certainly could happen. It is just tough for a receiver to receive this honor.

2. Corey Clement   RB   Wisconsin
The talented Clement is back behind a great offensive line and the Badgers are my darkhorse this season so naturally he appears on this list. Most people are not to high on Clement or the Badgers, but an early match-up with LSU can certainly get Clement some early Heisman looks. A breakout game against the Tigers could vault him up the Heisman list.

1. Jake Browning     QB   Washington

There seems to be a trend with the Washington Huskies. There will be much more on Jake Browning to come in this post....

My Heisman Top 5

5. Jake Browning    QB    Washington
You already have seen how high I am on the Washington Huskies this year. I expect them to win the Pac and for Browning to be a major reason why. He will have a breakout year in his second year and look to improve upon his 63% completion percentage. As a freshman, Browning threw for 2,955 yards and I would expect that total to jump over 4,000 in year 2 of Chris Peterson's offense.

4. Baker Mayfield     QB     Oklahoma

Mayfield will be back in the conversation again this season. Expect Oklahoma to be back in the thick of the playoff race, making it likely Mayfield has a strong shot at the award.

3. Christian McCaffrey    RB   Stanford

You could argue that McCaffrey should have won the award last year, and that he is the favorite this year. He certainly is one of the top contenders. It likely will come down to these three backs that have been outstanding, but I have the other two edging him out.

2. Dalvin Cook     RB    Florida State

IMO, Dalvin Cook should have won the award last year. The season he had with that injury and the negative press was otherworldly. This guy is an absolute machine. However, the fact that he was left off so many All-American teams last year and that he was not invited to New York makes me think he will get passed up again. It seems that the voters simply will not vote for him for whatever reason. It is a shame because he will possibly deserve it again, but the numbers will have to be insane for him to get it.

1. Leonard Fournette       RB    LSU

Fournette will be aided by 2 factors
1) LSU will be tremendous this season
2) Dalvin Cook is hated nationally
Those factors + the fact that he is excellent and plays in the SEC is why I predict Fournette to be our next Heisman trophy winner.

Offensive All-Americans

QB Jake Browning     Washington

RB Dalvin Cook           Florida State

RB Leonard Fournette   LSU

WR Calvin Ridley        Alabama

WR James Washington  Oklahoma State

TE Bucky Hodges         Virginia Tech

OT Roderick Johnson  Florida State

OT Cam Robinson        Alabama

OG Billy Price               Ohio State

OG Dan Feeney             Indiana

C  Ethan Pocic               LSU

Defensive All-Americans

DE Jonathan Allen    Alabama

DE Chris Wormley    Michigan

DT Charles Walker   Oklahoma

DT Lowell Lotuleli    Utah

LB Ben Boulware      Clemson

LB Devontae Fields   Louisville

LB Raekwon McMillan Ohio State

CB Desmond King   Iowa

CB Sidney Jones      Washington

S   Derwin James     Florida State

S   Jamal Adams      LSU

Specialist All-Americans

K Andy Phillips          Utah

P  Hayden Hunt          Colorado State 

KR Evan Berry           Tennessee
PR William Likely      Maryland

Coach of The Year

Jimbo Fisher!!!!

Again, Fisher probably should win this award that he has never gotten, just like he has never gotten the ACC Coach of the Year, but he won't. I would actually assume this award will go to Chris Peterson if the Huskies are as good as I think they will be this year. The Huskies making the playoffs should get Peterson to win the award. Should the Oklahoma State Cowboys make it though, Mike Gundy could easily win. 10+ wins down in Texas will win Charlie Strong the award.

It will again be a wonderfully exciting football season indeed.

-Noland

Looking Back @ Football Predictions 2015

It is important for anybody who makes predictions to go back and truly assess how they did. In this post, I look to do just that for the past football season 2015-2016, before making new predictions for this year. Some of these predictions were pretty accurate, but some were horrifically bad. This seeks to give us some perspective on what I have gotten right and wrong before any predictions are made for the 2016-2017 season. I had four prediction pages for last football season. Last year I had an ACC preview, a preview for the rest of the country, an NFL preview, and a preview of Noles in training camps. Each of those will be looked at in great detail on this post.

Let's start with the Noles in training camps post. This post was the least predicting out of these posts, but was still informative and had some predictions in there. I said that it was put up or shut up time for EJ Manuel in Buffalo and that it was about time for him to win the job. I may have picked him to win Super Bowl MVP in another post (embarassed face) which was by far my worst prediction. Manuel of course was beaten out by Tyrod Taylor and even I think the lofty expectations I (and the Bills) had for him will never be fulfilled at this point. I was too much of a homer in the case of EJ. I will continue to root for the guy though. Sticking with the Bills, injuries forced Karlos Williams into the starting lineup and he exceeded my expectations. This guy did much better than anticipated and had a great rookie season. Another error in this post was not being bullish enough about Devonta Freeman, who ended up in the MVP conversation. He blew everyone away. Finally, Kelvin Benjamin did not start because of the ACL injury, but looks to be strong heading into this season. Everything else in this post is 100% accurate on where they were heading into the 2015-2016 season. You could write pretty much the same stuff for each player heading into 2016-2017, but you will need to include some new teams.

Now onto the NFL season predictions. As bad as the Bills Super Bowl pick was and subsequent EJ Manuel pick as described above, I actually hit on a lot here. You have to forgive me some as well, because the Bills pick was an opportunity pick based partially on the expected suspension of Tom Brady. That suspension was overturned after these selections. I had the Cardinals and Texans winning their respective divisions when few others did. I also had the Cardinals going all the way to the Super Bowl, which possibly could have happened without the Tyrann Mathieu injury. They still made the NFC Championship as I predicted. Three of my bold predictions were right in that Marcus Marriota did not start every game due to injury, the Titans would finish with the #1 pick, and Jameis Winston would be rookie of the year. I was a little too bullish record wise on the Bucs though who I gave 5 extra wins. The Ravens was another big miss for me as they too missed the playoffs. My biggest miss, was probably my continued hope for Sam Bradford. I had him leading the Eagles to a division title and an NFC Championship Game appearance and he again came up short on my expectations. Take out those bullish predictions for Bradford and Manuel and these predictions look solid. Will not make that mistake again for those two. This time I will hope to be wrong in their favor for once. Just keep rooting for the good injury prone guys to catch a break.

The NCAA preview went considerably better for me than the NFL did. I got 2 of the 4 playoff teams correct, including going against the grain and picking Michigan State to win the Big 10 over Ohio State. Nearly everyone had the Buckeyes at least making the playoff while I said the pressure to repeat would eventually catch up to the talented Buckeyes. Another favorite though, TCU, is another team I had in the playoff and they fell short. My worst prediction in here was Arizona winning it all. Yikes! So maybe not so great with the picks. The darkhorses I had were all pretty weak too, especially Georgia Tech, but more on that later.
On the Heisman trophy front, I had weak darkhorses, but my main guys were threats for at least a while other than the injured Wright. The eventual winner, Derrick Henry, was my #3 contender coming into the season. Henry was one of four offensive All-Americans I hit on (using the AP list), the other three were Spencer Drango, Jack Allen and Landon Turner. I hit on three defensive players in A'Shawn Robinson, Jaylen Smith, and Vernon Hargreaves. These numbers were pretty low as I look to hit on half of the picks this upcoming season.

Finally, is the ACC preview I did. I thought it would be interesting to do a preview of the conference FSU is in, and that proved to be true. It comes as no surprise that the Seminoles were my pick to win the conference. That was wrong, but I did say the biggest threats in conference to that happening were Georgia Tech and Clemson. The only regular season losses for FSU were to Georgia Tech and Clemson. Those Jackets really only showed up for the FSU game though unfortunately for them and the conference. Clemson had a very impressive season winning the conference and helping Dabo Swinney to win coach of the year over the ever-deserving Jimbo Fisher. I stated that Jalen Ramsey was the most talented player in the conference and that proved true as he was the #1 player on many teams draft boards a few weeks ago. Ramsey was the #5 overall pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Now, for how accurate I was picking the all-conference team....
Between not knowing if Dalvin Cook would be eligible and James Connor's injury, I missed on the RBs, but hit on many other positions. I hit on 4 of 11 on the offensive side. Correctly selecting Matt Skura, Landon Turner, Roderick Johnson, and Artavis Scott. On defense I hit on 3 of 11, correctly selecting Jalen Ramsey, Nile Lawrence-Stample, and Stephen Daniels. Some injuries hurt me in other spots including the FSU LB core and Kendall Fuller. The 1st team specialist was also correct as I selected the automatic, Roberto Aguayo. Every one of my selections that was not injured made one of the 3 all conference teams with the exception of Jacoby Brisett, Derwin James and George Campbell, so there is that. My worst selection was certainly Campbell as he barely saw the field in 2015. 8 people correctly selected on the 1st team All-ACC is a number that will improve for 2016.

Stay tuned for more takes on the latest news in sports and of course, more predictions....

-Noland

2015 NFL Season Predictions

The NFL season is here and that is good news for football fans everywhere.While I prefer the college game personally, I get jacked for NFL as well. Since the season is here, it is prediction time. Hopefully, these picks go slightly better than last year.

NFC East
Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
New York Giants (9-7)
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
Washington Redskins (5-11)

NFC North
Green Bay Packers (11-5)
Detroit Lions (9-7)
Chicago Bears (6-10)
Minnesota Vikings (5-11)

NFC South
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-5)
Carolina Panthers (10-6)
New Orleans Saints (6-10)
Atlanta Falcons (5-11)

NFC West
Arizona Cardinals (12-4)
Seattle Seahawks (8-8)
St. Louis Rams (6-10)
San Francisco 49ers (5-11)

AFC East
Buffalo Bills (13-3)
New England Patriots (9-7)
New York Jets (7-9)
Miami Dolphins (5-11)

AFC North
Baltimore Ravens (13-3)
Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
Cincinnati Bengals (8-8)
Cleveland Browns (3-13)


AFC South
Houston Texans (10-6)
Indianapolis Colts (9-7)
Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9)
Tennessee Titans (2-14)

AFC West
San Diego Chargers (11-5)
Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)
Denver Broncos (8-8)
Oakland Raiders (6-10)


MVP
Joe Flacco QB Baltimore Ravens

People love to hate on Joe Flacco for some odd reason. However, all Flacco does is win. He also has a receiver again in Beshaud Perriman and the two best DBs on the Steelers retired. Everything is pointing towards Flacco having a terrific season. Do not be surprised when he gets a lot of MVP votes this year.

Coach of the Year
Bill O'Brien

Look, I know I picked this last year too, but this year it comes true. It was a little too ambitious at that time considering that the team had no real option at QB. This year you may think there is no real option, but Brian Hoyer is a big step up from Ryan Fitzpatrick. Additionally, Tom Savage is in year 2 of O'Brien's offense. Everything should go much better this year for the Texans who win the AFC South.

5 Bold Predictions outside of records
1. The Rookie of the Year will be Jameis Winston.
2. Marcus Mariota will not start every game and the Titans will have the worst record in the NFL finishing with the #1 overall pick next year. I realize that goes with a record prediction, but adds the tidbit about Mariota.
3. TY Hilton will lead the league in receiving.
4. Darren McFadden will have 1,500 rushing yards behind the Cowboys offensive line if he stays healthy.
5. Sam Bradford will be comeback player of the year and make the Philadelphia Eagles a Super Bowl Contender.

NFL Playoffs Round 1
Buccaneers over Giants
Packers over Panthers
Colts over Chargers
Texans over Chiefs

Round 2
Cardinals over Packers
Eagles over Buccaneers
Ravens over Colts
Bills over Texans

NFC Championship
Cardinals over Eagles

I do not have a lot of faith in Carson Palmer. In fact, I think he is nowhere near a typical Super Bowl Winning QB. However, he leads the Cardinals to the Super Bowl simply because they are the best and most talented team. They were the best team last year and will be one of the best again with the only hangup in this prediction being the health of Carson Palmer. Heck, actually as long as Drew Stanton stays healthy too, they were still the best team with him. It took the dreadful Ryan Lindley playing to knock down the Cardinals. Assuming that they aren't forced to go with Lindley again, the talent around Palmer is so good that this is a legit Super Bowl contender.
Most people hate on the Eagles and Chip Kelly, but I have a feeling his moves are going to workout. However, all of his moves depend on the health of his QB Sam Bradford. While I am incredibly high on Bradford still, I must admit that he is incredibly injury prone. He leads the Eagles to a familiar position as the NFC Championship Game loser.

AFC Championship
Bills over Ravens

In my typical fashion, I have picked somebody that not many people have picked here. Stale predictions are boring 1 and 2 you have to go with what you truly feel will happen. Joe Flacco simply wins in the playoffs and if not for a collapse from the defense last year against New England, he could have easily picked up his second ring last year. The Ravens will certainly be in the mix again this season.
My prediction though is that they lose to Rex Ryan's Bills. Ryan is a defensive mastermind that just inherited perhaps the most talented starting defensive line in football. There is a lot of talent on that Bills defense, and Ryan will have them performing at the top of their game. One of the reasons they get to this game is that the Pats lost some players on defense and Brady will start the season suspended creating opportunity. One of the reason they win this game is because they will be one of the few teams that can really get pressure on Joe Flacco. The big question with the Bills is how their quarterback play will be with a talented supporting cast.

Super Bowl

Bills over Cardinals

The Bills have historically lost this game when they got here, but not this time. That defense against an injury prone QB on a big stage and the QB will make a lot of nervous mistakes. The Bills will take advantage. They put everything together and win the Lombardi Trophy.

Super Bowl MVP

EJ Manuel

The Bills will have to get super play out of whoever wins their starting job this year. Whether it be Manuel or somebody else, whoever wins the job must play well. They have the supporting cast to do it, especially after the Bills traded for Shady McCoy. These guys are primed and ready for a Super Bowl run and win. EJ Manuel will be the man behind center helping them to win it. At least that is how I see it today. It is time for him to take over and if he can take the reigns at the level I and many others expect, the Bills will have a rather memorable season.

-Noland

2015-16 NCAA Football Predictions

Another glorious football season is upon us. Fall is practically here and our favorite sport will be played before you know it. Since it is so close, that can only mean that it is prediction time. So my predictions for the 2015-2016 football season are what this entry is all about.

After their surprising run last season, most people are on Ohio State to win, but not this guy. Despite their incredibly manageable schedule and incredible amount of talent returning, it is just an entirely different animal to repeat. Something can and will go wrong for the Buckeyes. Who does that leave us to compete? Let's start with some teams that nobody is talking about that could have an impact on the College Football Playoff that I have outside of my playoff and most people have outside their top 10 teams.

The Darkhorse Teams

5. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Irish lately have seemed to be the team that provides just enough to make you believe they are a contender before eventually fading away. Last year, they had that incredible almost win in Tallahassee where they came closest to ending Florida State's winning streak. They had a lot of injuries late in the year that contributed to their late slide. You better expect this team to compete though and if they lose a game or less, they will be in the hunt.

4. Penn State Nittany Lions
I can't believe I am writing this team as a darkhorse playoff contender a few years after crippling sanctions, but they are just that. Bill O'Brien did a fantastic job keeping this program afloat and was succeeded by another incredible coach in James Franklin. The Nittany Lions have a guy that is arguably the best QB in the country and a lot of returning talent. They also play in a conference that behind the top two teams of Ohio State and Michigan State is fairly weak. The opportunity is there for Penn State with a giant bullseye on Ohio State should Michigan State falter. Do not be shocked if this team surprises the majority of the country.

3. Oklahoma State Cowboys
Oklahoma State demonstrated last year that they have an incredible amount of young talent. They also saw injuries derail part of their season, but were still able to beat rival Oklahoma. The Cowboys return talented QB Mason Rudolph who was able to lead that upset over the Sooners. Perhaps more importantly, the Cowboys get to play Big 12 powers Baylor, Oklahoma, and TCU in Stillwater. Mike Gundy could follow-up his worst season since 2007 with a playoff appearance.

2. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are being talked about by practically nobody to be a player on the national scene, but it is quite possible that they can achieve just that. There is only one legitimate threat in the Coastal division and should they dispose of Virginia Tech and somehow finish 13-0, they have a real legitimate shot at competing for a National Title. Almost the entire Yellow Jacket defense is back and they have 6 starters returning on offense including quarterback Justin Thomas. Do not be surprised if these guys shake up some things nationally and not just in the ACC.

1. Arizona State Sun Devils

USC was picked by practically everyone to be the PAC representative in the College Football Playoff this year. I though had a hard time deciding between two other PAC South teams for the spot. USC to me has a lot of talent, but most of it is overrated as is QB Cody Kessler. Add in that they lost to Boston College last year have a lot to replace up front and I am not a believer. That is especially true when several in conference coaches are superior. One of those superior coaches is Todd Graham who has led Arizona State to 20 wins the last two seasons. This team has a lot of returning talent this season. They do not have their QB returning though which is why I chose another team to represent the conference. However, I am not that concerned because QB Mike Bercovici had three great starts at QB last season.

The Playoff Teams

4. Alabama Crimson Tide

Assuming Coker is the starter, I think that Alabama makes it here despite losing a great deal of talent. He could have the best arm out of any QB Saban has coached. Notice I didn't say be the best QB (although perhaps he will develop into that), but best arm. I am unsure how they will do should Coker not get the nod. If he does not get it, my pick is Auburn to get this last spot.

3. Michigan State Spartans

The Spartans were not far off the playoffs last year and a lot of people seem to forget that they beat trendy pick Baylor in one of the best games in years. They also have a serious amount of talent returning led by QB Connor Cook who I will have more about later. I think the pressure to repeat will be too much for Ohio State and that Michigan State will be the team to take advantage of that.

2. TCU Horned Frogs

This is the one team that everyone else is picking that I agree with. It is hard not to. The coaching and talent for the Horned Frogs are incredibly elite. However, how do they deal with being the favorites all year long, it is a new role for them. Do not be surprised at all if Oklahoma State plays spoiler in the big 12 and knocks either TCU or Baylor out of the championship race. Perhaps, they can knock both teams out and head to the playoff themselves.

1. Arizona Wildcats

The Arizona Wildcats led by Rich Rodriguez are my pick to be National Champions this season. They have 7 returning starters on offense including QB Anu Soloman. They also have all their skill position players returning for Rodriguez's explosive offense. On defense, they have 6 starters returning including All-American Scooby Wright. Do not forget either that these guys beat Oregon by 21 last season @ Oregon. This is a very capable team with a lot of returning talent. 

5 Best Regular Season Matchups

5. 11/7 TCU @ Oklahoma State

4. 11/28 Penn State @ Michigan State

3. 11/27 Baylor @ TCU

2. 11/21 Michigan State @ Ohio State

1. 11/21 Arizona @ Arizona State 

5 Best Week 1 Matchups

5. 11/5 3:30 PM BYU @ Nebraska

4. 11/5 7PM Arizona State v. Texas A&M (NRG Stadium in Houston)

3.11/5 8PM Wisconsin v. Alabama (AT&T Stadium)

2. 11/7 8 PM Ohio State @ Virginia Tech 

1. 11/5 3:30 PM Louisville v. Auburn (Georgia Dome)

Heisman Darkhorses NOBODY is Talking About

5. Mario Pender RB Florida State

Nobody is talking about Mario Pender even at Florida State University, but perhaps they should be. Pender was on a roll before suffering an injury early and would be in line for the majority of the carries should Dalvin Cook be unable to play. Florida State has had a 1,000 yard rusher each of the last three seasons and it isn't something that is likely the change. The question is who gets the most carries. If it is Pender, than he very well could be invited to New York.

4. Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma State
Should the Cowboys have the season I am expecting and should they knock off multiple Big 12 powerhouses, it will be hard to deny Rudolph the big stage. He is a very capable quarterback with a great quarterback coach. With several favorable matchups in marquee games, he will have plenty of opportunity to shine as well.

3. Jacoby Brissett QB North Carolina State
Last week, I posted in my ACC preview, that Brissett is my selection for ACC Offensive Player of the Year. Should he pull that off, he will likely be a Heisman candidate, especially if he does it in leading the Wolfpack to the ACC Championship.

2. Malik Zaire QB Notre Dame
The talented sophomore quarterback will surely be invited to New York and will likely be the favorite to win the award should he lead the Irish to an undefeated regular season. He has a better arm and more talent than the departed Evert Golson, the question is whether he is able to put all of that raw talent into production on the field.

1. Mike Bercovici QB Arizona State
He has only had 3 career starts, but in those starts Bercovici has played quite well. The Arizona State QB leads one of the most consistent teams in the Pac 12 and a team that I expect to compete for the national championship.

My Heisman Top 5

5. Taysom Hill QB BYU

He was one of the favorites last season before going down with a devastating injury and there was even some talk that BYU could make the playoff. That injury ended that talk and his Heisman campaign, but there is no reason to think it can't be queued back up for this season.

4. Trevoyne Boykin QB TCU

This will be most people's pick to win the Heisman and it isn't for nothing. He is the quarterback of the team that is favored to win the title. However, I think that the weaknesses of defenses in the Big 12 will hurt Boykin as will his comparisons to Taysom Hill for that reason. 

3. Derrick Henry RB Alabama

While I'd like to think that this will be Coker if there is an Alabama Heisman candidate, chances are that they will still rely more on the ground game. History shows us that a dominant Alabama runningback has a very good chance at coming away with the Heisman trophy.

2. Scooby Wright LB Arizona

Scooby has a legit chance to make history should Arizona do what I am predicting them to do and he dominate on the field as expected. There will be a defensive player invited this year, the question is whether it will be him, Joey Bosa, or Shawn Oakman. I expect it to be Wright.

1. Connor Cook QB Michigan State

Cook is the best quarterback in the country and he will play for one of the best teams in the country. Especially if he takes down the Ohio State Buckeyes, this is his award to lose. He already has some Heisman hype and it won't be going anywhere.

Offensive All-Americans

QB Connor Cook Michigan State

RB Derrick Henry Alabama

RB Nick Chubb Georgia

WR DJ Foster Arizona State

WR Laquon Treadwell Ole Miss

TE Bucky Hodges Virginia Tech

OT Spencer Drango Baylor

OT Ronnie Stanley Notre Dame

OG Landon Turner North Carolina

OG Pat Elfein Ohio State

C Jack Allen Michigan State

Defensive All-Americans

DE Emmanuel Ogbah Oklahoma State

DE Joey Bosa Ohio State

DT A'Shawn Robinson Alabama

DT Anthony Zettel Penn State

LB Scooby Wright Arizona

LB Terrance Smith Florida State

LB Jaylon Smith Notre Dame

LB Myles Jack UCLA

CB Vernon Hargreaves Florida

CB Jalen Ramsey Florida State

FS Quin Blanding Virginia

SS Eddie Jackson Alabama

Specialist All-Americans

K Roberto Aguayo Florida State

P Austin Rehkow Idaho

KR/PR Deandre Reaves Marshall

Coach of The Year

Mike Gundy Oklahoma State
Gundy will once again show off his coaching chops by having a team that is not expected to go anywhere, competing for a national title. This time, he will be rewarded for his effort.

It should be a wonderfully exciting football season indeed.

-Noland

Looking Back At My Football Predictions

For the 2014-2015 season, my original predictions for college can be found here and for the NFL can be found here. I also made a pick of the bowl games and the playoffs. We will look at all of these predictions because it will give some perspective on what I have gotten right and wrong heading into any predictions about the NFL draft and the upcoming season. Then at the end of this post, I will examine my draft grades from last year's draft as well (in the next post). The first thing you will notice about the link is that the college football playoff link is missing. It is missing because I was horribly wrong on it. I had both teams losing that won their games. That was the low point of my football predictions, but I really did well elsewhere in my picks especially when it came to the draft, but like I said that draft post is next week...

Let's start with the college football preview..I said that FSU would win the ACC and Alabama would win the SEC and was right about both of those selections. However, I said Pittsburgh would win the ACC Atlantic and was very wrong. I also happened to be wrong about the other major conference winners. Jake Coker did not start for Bama as I predicted and they lost 2 games (I predicted they would lose 3 without Coker). In my defense on the SEC prediction, Alabama was getting a lot of favorable calls in SEC action. I was wrong on the Heisman winner, but had the right conference and was right about Winston not being top 3. I was correct in assuming that Winston would be expected to do far too much to win the award. My 5 under the radar games to watch were all fantastic other than the Oregon-Wyoming game. Those games were picked out quite well. Where I missed the mark in these games is that Pittsburgh and Miami was not for the ACC Atlantic crown as predicted. Another home run I hit was with my prediction of Ohio State. I expected Ohio State to lose one of their first two games and they did lose to Virginia Tech. Ohio State nearly lost to Navy as well. It did not knock them out of the title picture as predicted, but the loss to the Hokies came very close to eliminating the Buckeyes. Navy entered the Notre Dame game at 4-4 while I predicted it to be 7-1. However, Navy did win all of their games after Notre Dame and was a very strong team as predicted. Every loss they had was a game they were in for at least a half.

In that first article I predicted that FSU and Alabama would both make the college football playoff and was right. I also said that if I had to pick a team to win it would be FSU, but it was too close to call. I mentioned Oregon as another team that could easily make it and win. The Ducks made it over my pick of UCLA. My bowl picks were about as successful as my other predictions. I had some big hits and some big misses. One deadly accurate score was Central Michigan and Western Kentucky. I got the game wrong, but I picked it Central Michigan 49-Western Kentucky 47. It was Western Kentucky 49-Central Michigan 48. Overall in bowl games I went 17-19 for one I my worst records ever. Like I said though that one game I had pretty accurately counted as a loss and I picked West Virginia before Trickett's injury and I actually switched it after hearing about it, but still counted it as a loss because on the site I picked WVU. Still, I was off last year in college football on my picks.

Now, on to the NFL predictions for last season....
I predicted that Matt Stafford would be MVP banking on Calvin Johnson's continued production and the addition of Golden Tate for Detroit. Tate made a huge difference, but Megatron was hurt for most of the year and that prediction failed as a result.
I predicted 4 of the 6 playoff teams in the NFC correctly. I missed on Green Bay and Dallas, instead choosing New Orleans and Philly.The AFC had the same result for me as I hit 4 of 6 there. I predicted San Diego and Houston over the actual participants in Cincinnati and Indy.
Coach of the Year I was off because Houston wasn't quite as good as I anticipated they would be. The quarterback play did hold this team back.
Kelvin Benjamin was not offensive rookie of the year despite a fantastic rookie season. Odell Beckham's catch highlighted a fantastic finish for the Giants wideout.
Houston's defense finished 19th in sacks when I predicted they would be #1. Clowney's injury is what I am blaming, but I was disappointed in the performance of the Texans other than Watt last year. JJ Watt is an absolute beast and arguably the best player in the league.
Andre Ellington was banged up all season eventually ending up on injured reserve and dooming his pro bowl chances.
Johnny Manziel was 0-2 as a starter and a complete joke as a rookie, so I was right about that prediction.

Now, on to my draft grades to see what I have right so far. For those results check in with me next week. This will be followed by my long awaited post on Jameis Winston the following week.

-Noland

College Football Playoff Preview

In the preseason I picked two of these teams to be here, Alabama and Florida State. Although, I did predict that Alabama would lose 3 games if it went with Blake Sims at QB and was proven wrong. I also said that I was expecting Ohio State to lose one of their opening two games with their true freshman QB. The Buckeyes lost to Virginia Tech and were playing even with Navy until their athletes pulled away. That loss I thought would knock them out of the hunt, but they rebounded nicely to make it. Before the Braxton Miller injury I considered the Big 10 a toss-up between Ohio State and Michigan State. Post injury I saw that loss and maybe a few more. Great job by the Buckeyes this year at handling adversity. The Pac 12 race I predicted to be the tightest because I thought UCLA would be a tad better and picked the Bruins to win. However, I realized the Ducks would be good and thought they would just miss out. Those Ducks had a great season and will be playing my Noles in the Rose Bowl.

After weeks of controversy and predictions from the committee and college football fans everywhere, I think the committee mostly got it right. While I would have liked to see Baylor over Ohio State, Baylor did not play a conference championship and was a co-champion while Ohio State won the Big 10 outright. The order of the teams is not right as the only undefeated team is #3, but the teams are fine and I like every other fan am excited for this playoff.

Let's start with the Rose Bowl...

Rose Bowl

Jan. 1 5 PM ESPN

Oregon v. Florida State

The Seminoles are undefeated and have won 29 straight games. No matter how you slice it, what they have done in this run is incredible. This team has not lost in the calendar year 2013 or 2014 and there is nothing anyone can do about that. Every Florida State fan should live in the moment and enjoy that fact. These Noles are on one of the most historic runs in college football history and a win in this game would be their 30th straight victory.

Interesting note in this one is that the Noles first game in 2014 was at the Rose Bowl and their second game was in Dallas. If the Noles win the Rose Bowl on New Years Day, their first game of 2015 will be at the Rose Bowl and their second game will be in Dallas. It is funny the cycles that exist in college football.

Now, to the game....Marcus Mariota has had an outstanding season and nobody is arguing with his Heisman run, but let's not forget the teams he has done it against. This guy faces very poor pass defense in the Pac 12. In fact, there is only one top 86 pass defense on Marcus Marriota's schedule. The Stanford Cardinal is ranked #7 in pass defense. In that game he wasn't having a 300 yard game and threw an interception. Every other defense he faced was ranked 87 or lower against the pass. Yes, he had a great season, but those numbers were inflated a little bit and FSU has a better secondary than this team usually faces. It should be interesting to see how this offense matches up with the Seminoles defense. Oregon's offense is basically Georgia Tech's with a passing threat and if Mariota can get the linebackers in coverage, he can have a big day. The secondary though is better than that of what Oregon has faced so they will have to exploit the lack of depth FSU has at linebacker. This is huge for the Heisman trophy winner's draft stock. Decimate the Seminoles D and guarantee a top 10 pick. Struggle and have teams second guess themselves on selecting you.

When FSU has the ball, they get to play Oregon's defense which is inferior to most that they have played. FSU has played 5 top 15 defenses (Clemson, Louisville, Florida, Boston College, and Miami) while Oregon is not even close to that. In fact, Oregon's defense is ranked 81 behind pretty much every team Florida State has played. This is not to mention that Florida State has had 3 weeks to prepare for Oregon and Jameis Winston skipped the Heisman ceremony to prepare and watch film. From the awards circuit last year, Winston gained 20 pounds and wasn't able to prepare as well as he has this time. Now, while Marriota is doing all the traveling, Winston is plotting and getting ready. He also got that look in his eye during the Georgia Tech game that had been missing the rest of this season, but was apparent last year. This guy is ready. His WRs are healthy and he got 3 weeks to work out with the true freshmen receivers and gain a little chemistry. Winston is ready to go off. Add in the emergence of Dalvin Cook and it will be very tough for Oregon to stop this offense. FSU really wants to get to 30 and Jameis Winston just wins. You have to kind of expect him to win again at this point. I know I am not betting against him.

Another factor that has come up that will aid the chances of FSU's success is that Oregon's top DB had a season ending injury in bowl prep practice. All-American Ifo Ekpre-Olomu suffered a devastating knee injury and will not play. While that really sucks and I wish he was okay it does effect the game. Oregon cannot cover Florida State without him and this game could get ugly. It will absolutely be a shootout and Oregon needs to hope Florida State either has a slow start or has just as much trouble stopping their offense. I am very excited for this one tomorrow night...
Florida State 63 - Oregon 42

Sugar Bowl

Jan. 1 8:30 PM ESPN

Alabama v. Ohio State

Alabama is the favorite in this one and the favorite to win the title period. They have been there before and had success. The Crimson Tide have also dominated recruiting in recent years. Just based on their recruiting success and always being #1 in recruiting, one would expect the Tide to be in the top spot. However, there are some factors that make this game not as much of a sure thing as you would think. Alabama is 5-8 against the spread this season while Ohio State is 8-5 against the spread. The Tide is favored by 9.5 points and Ohio State could cover easily. The question is will they? More importantly the question is, can they win it outright? For that answer we need to look deeper into the match-up.

This is about as good as it gets in college football. You have the two coaches that most consider the best at least in the x's and o's department. Meyer won 2 National Championships at Florida and Saban has won 4 (3 at Bama, 1 at LSU). The incredible 6 National Championships between these two coaches is an absolutely amazing job at coaching by each. The two have met up 3 times against each other with Meyer winning the first match-up and Saban winning the next two. In fact, Saban is only one of 4 active coaches who has bested Meyer multiple times. However, Meyer is one of very few coaches able to prepare with multiple weeks as well as Nick Saban's Alabama Crimson Tide. Urban Meyer is 7-2 in bowl games for a .772 Winning Percentage. He is 4-1 in BCS level bowls, with his only loss coming to Clemson last season. Meanwhile, Nick Saban has a 8-7 record in bowls for a .533 winning percentage. He is 5-2 in BCS level bowls. While it is true that you don't want to face Nick Saban with multiple weeks to prepare, it may be more true to say that about Urban Meyer. With multiple weeks to prepare and coming off of bye weeks, Meyer has been absolutely fantastic.

Sure, Meyer can flex his muscle as a coach, but the key here will be whether his team has anywhere near the talent to compete with Alabama. At the end of the day, they just don't have the horses and I don't think the extra prep time will be enough to compete with the much more talented Alabama squad. The Buckeyes are down to their third string QB and have an offensive coordinator that is leaving for a head coaching gig at Houston. Those are tough things to overcome when you are playing a squad this talented. Any distractions are negatives in a game of this magnitude and that is not good for Ohio State.
Don't underestimate Meyer coming up clutch in the big game. There is also the chance that they get to Blake Sims and force him to make mistakes. If Ohio State can force Sims to make mistakes and make Sims beat them, they have a good shot. That is their chance. Sims plays well and it is a blowout, but if he plays poorly, the Buckeyes have a chance. At the end of the day, expect Saban to pull out the victory.

Saban and the rest of the country will get what they want....The FSU-Alabama showdown is coming. Saban against his former offensive coordinator.
Alabama 35 - Ohio State 24

National Championship Game

Jan. 12 8:30 PM ESPN

Florida State v. Alabama

This game is one that has seemed destined to happen for about 3 years. In 2012, the Seminoles choked blowing games against NC State and Florida. The following year it was Alabama's turn blowing a game against Auburn. FSU was much better than Alabama in 2013, but it was still the match-up everybody wanted to see. Now, this season it will finally happen, assuming both teams win their semi-final match-ups on their superior talent. Everybody wants the Saban-Fisher match-up and we should finally be getting it. This game will get serious ratings and everyone wants to see how Fisher does against his former boss.

I love that picture of the three coaching legends. These guys are close, but make no mistake about how badly these two want to beat each other. Not just to be National Champion, but this game has a tremendous effect on the future of college football. Alabama will be expected to win and if the lines opened today are a projected 9 point favorite. FSU will be riding a 30 game winning streak if they get to this one.The storyline entering this game couldn't be much better. There is only one thing that could make this more interesting and that would be if Jakob Coker beat out Blake Sims at QB.
Speaking on Blake Sims and QB, the QB position is by far FSU's biggest edge. The Seminoles have a guy that has never lost a game and is considered historically great by many. While the Crimson Tide have a guy that is their biggest chance of losing. There is absolutely no comparison of the QBs in this game. Jameis is simply much better. FSU also has more talent in the secondary than Alabama so I would give that edge to the Noles as well. The passing game edge has to go to FSU.

They may have the edge in the passing game, but Alabama has an edge up front. Many believe that Alabama has a huge edge here, but I don't think it is that big. FSU will likely have Eddie Goldman and Nile Lawrence-Stample back for the playoff and that difference should not be understated. The Noles also have allowed only 2 sacks in the past four games. Since, the switch of Cameron Erving to center and Roderick Johnson to LT this line has been fantastic. Johnson hasn't been going against scrubs either, in the Florida game, he face Donte Fowler. Playing in just a handful of games, Roderick Johnson was able to be named to the Freshman All-American Team. While I give Alabama the edge here, it is a very small edge.
I also give Alabama an edge with their running game. That edge is very small though as well because FSU has been running the ball much better lately. Dalvin Cook is an absolute superstar in the making and will likely be a huge factor in this game.
Alabama is much better at linebacker, but the Noles have a solid starting group. FSU just seriously lacks depth at the LB position.
At the end of the day this will be a dogfight and will be what everyone is hoping for, but I just can't see Alabama stopping Jameis Winston. I don't see anyone denying this kid his destiny. He is supposed to win out in college football. He is the best there is in college football and he will not lose a college game. The supporting cast is too strong and the Noles have been too disrespected to fail. Sure, they could lose due to all the parity this year, but this is the best team and it seems to be their destiny. The most talent, the best team, the most battle tested, these Noles are ready. Jameis Winston is ready and I cannot wait. This passing game is too good to be denied.
Florida State 56 - Alabama 42

Finish the mission. Add to the hardware. Make it 31 straight and leave no doubt. Florida State Football. Go Noles!

-Noland

My Bowl Picks And Analysis

There are some very intriguing bowl match-ups this season. Now that teams are more frequently slotted and the bowls have less choice, it has given us quite a few interesting match-ups. I love the bowl season and projecting who will win. Here, I will pick the winners of each game and give a little analysis of each game. Bowl season kicks off December 20th.

R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl

Nevada v. Louisiana Lafayette

Dec. 20 11 AM ESPN

Nevada seems to have played a more difficult schedule and played several quality teams very tough. They went toe to toe with Arizona and Boise State among others. These teams have one common opponent in Boise State. While both teams lost to Boise, Nevada lost by 5 and Louisiana Lafayette lost by 25. This is practically a home game for Louisiana Lafeyette though which is certainly a factor. Still, the Wolfpack come into this game hungry having not won a bowl game since 2010 and pull of the win.

Nevada 42 - Lousiana Lafayette 34

Gildan New Mexico Bowl

Utah State v. UTEP

Dec. 20 2:20 PM ESPN

Utah State has a better record, more talent, and has played tougher competition. All of Utah State's losses were to teams that are bowl eligible while UTEP dropped a game to Texas Tech. Other than the early season hiccup against Tennessee, Utah State has looked pretty good. This team had its worst games when traveling East, but this game is in New Mexico which is not East. They have looked fantastic out West and should end the season on a high note here. Utah State should take this one easily.

Utah State 35 - UTEP 21

Royal Purple Las Vegas Bowl

Utah v. Colorado State

Dec.20 3:30 PM ABC

The coach for the Colorado State Rams has left for Gainesville, so it should be interesting to see how the team plays for the interim coach in this one. How they play without their coach will be the major story here. They are a very good team and this was one of the best match-ups, but will they show up with a new man in charge? It is interesting to see if team's show up or not when this happens. I believe that Colorado State is a fraction than Utah who did not play as well against Colorado as State did. However, I also believe that it will be difficult for Colorado State playing this game under the interim coach. I expect Utah to pull this one out.

Utah 30 - Colorado State 24

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

Western Michigan v. Air Force 

Dec.20 5:45 PM ESPN

Air Force has a chance to win its 10th game in this one after a 2-10 campaign last year. I don't expect Western Michigan who won less games on a less competitive schedule to derail that. Not only did Air Force win the Commander and Chief trophy this year, but they were one of two teams to knock off Boise State this year. This is a legit team coming into bowl season on a mission. No disrespect to Western Michigan, but they simply are not as put together as a team. Air Force should roll in this one.

Air Force 35 - Western Michigan 17

Raycom Media Camellia Bowl

South Alabama v. Bowling Green

Dec.20 9:15 PM ESPN

This is a sneaky good match-up in bowl season. Two teams that are highly motivated and highly underrated. It also happens to be the first ever bowl appearance for South Alabama who just moved up to FBS. Both teams closed poorly as Bowling Green lost their last 3 and South Alabama lost 4 of their last 5, but they should each come out swinging. Whether the MAC or the Sun Belt is more difficult to navigate is very tough to say this season as well. Usually it would be the MAC, but this year, Bowling Green's division in the MAC is awful with only 2 bowl eligible teams. While South Alabama might have a little less talent coming up from FCS so recently, I think they win this game. You can never underestimate that this is a team's first bowl appearance. Add in that they were passed up last year and these guys will come out fired up for this one.

South Alabama 24 - Bowling Green 20

Miami Beach Bowl

BYU v. Memphis

Dec.22 2 PM ESPN

This is a very exciting match-up in the Miami Beach Bowl. On one hand you have BYU who looked fantastic early on before their QB was injured and their season got a lot less interesting. Before Hill's injury, there was serious Heisman talk for him and talk about BYU in the playoff. That hope was derailed in early October with the injury, but this is a great team that went 8-4. Add in a game against the 9-3 champs from the American Athletic Conference and this is a fantastic game.

Memphis has looked really great this year and beat all the teams they were supposed to, except Houston..The other two losses came against UCLA and Ole Miss who many people had contending for the title this year. BYU went winless in October after heartbreak over the injury, but an undefeated in the other games. Can BYU remain undefeated outside of October? Yes, I think they can. There is just more talent on that BYU sideline and it should show in this game. It will be close though.

BYU 30 - Memphis 27

Boca Raton Bowl

Northern Illinois v. Marshall

Dec. 23 6 PM ESPN

This is another fantastic match-up we don't normally see in these minor bowl games. You have arguably the best two mid-major programs this year fighting against each other for respect. These teams match-up well and it should be fun. Marshall was undefeated until very late in this season when a 2 point conversion in overtime caused Western Kentucky to beat them. Until that, Marshall was bidding for the New Years Bowl spot from the Group of 5. The loss ended those hopes, but this team deserves respect and will be fighting for it in this one. However, Northern Illinois has been playing incredible football at the end of this season. They lost their last two bowl games and they have been craving respectability throughout football. I think they get it this time as they upset Marshall.

Northern Illinois 41 - Marshall 35

San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl

Navy v. San Diego State

Dec. 23 9:30 PM ESPN

I am typically very high on Navy football and give them more credit than most people, but I do not see it in this one. The game is in San Diego making it basically a home game for San Diego State. The fact that it is in that location doesn't even bring up the point that San Diego State is a much better team than Navy this time around. This one shouldn't be close, but if I am wrong about a bowl game other than Florida State's, I hope it is this one...

San Diego State 42 - Navy 24

Popeyes Bahama Bowl
Central Michigan v. Western Kentucky
Dec. 24 Noon ESPN

This game is tough to call because the teams have similar resumes. Western Kentucky closed better and had the huge upset over Marshall to end the season. However, the two worst losses that Central Michigan endured were while their workhorse runningback was facing legal trouble. That is resolved and he is back on the team which makes this a difficult selection. Both offenses are tough to stop and both defenses leave much to be desired. A shootout should be expected.

Central Michigan 49 - Western Kentucky 47

Hawaii Bowl
Fresno State v. Rice
Dec. 24 8 PM ESPN

Now comes the most exciting location of bowl season in the Hawaii Bowl. These teams must be thrilled to get this draw, but each needs to remember to focus. Both of these teams are disappointing, but at least Fresno State played a much tougher schedule. That Rice schedule is not difficult and they lost to Old Dominion who until this season was an FCS team. Losses to Notre Dame and Texas A & M do not look as good as they did early. However, at the time it looked like those two teams were terrific. It seems these 6-7 teams that get into the bowl games when they don't really deserve it seem to find a way as well. Finally, Fresno State was in this exact game 2 years ago so the seniors know this atmosphere. Rice is still at the point where they are happy to be in this game. That is a big difference when preparing for a bowl game.

Fresno State 28 - Rice 20

Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl
Illinois v. Louisiana Tech
Dec. 26 1 PM ESPN

Illinois has looked awful for the majority of Tim Beckman's tenure, but they have looked pretty good these past two games. They were able to knock off Penn State and Northwestern the final two weeks of the season to earn a bowl bid. If not for those two weeks, I would pick Louisiana Tech in a rout, but I love the way Illinois finished the season. That being said, Louisiana Tech has looked pretty good this entire season and has an offense that will be incredibly difficult for Illinois to stop. That Illini defense is not a strong unit. In 8 of their 13 games, Louisiana Tech has put up 40+ points and if this gets into a shootout, they likely win because they have more offense. The biggest issue for Louisiana Tech is motivation in this game after a tough loss in the conference championship game to Marshall. That being said, I think they are ready to play and ready to win.

Louisiana Tech 45 - Illinois 40

Quick Lane Bowl
Rutgers v. North Carolina
Dec. 26 4:30 PM ESPN

North Carolina has been trashed on by fans outside of the ACC all year and they really are not THAT bad. Their defensive play is not good, but they have outscored quite a few opponents and don't have any awful losses. They have given up at least 27 in every game this year, but scored at least 28 in all but three of the games. These guys played Notre Dame tough while Notre Dame was clicking on all cylinders and were one of two teams to beat Georgia Tech in the regular season. They then sent Georgia Tech to the ACC Championship by beating Duke. Some may not understand this team, but they are a decent squad and a better one than Rutgers. Rutgers best win was against 7-5 Maryland and they just have not looked very good all season. Carolina SHOULD dominate this game.

North Carolina 49 - Rutgers 24

Bitcoin St. Petersburg Bowl
NC State v. UCF
Dec. 26 8 PM ESPN

The Wolfpack may be 7-5, but they are a good 7-5 team. I would have liked to see them get an SEC team like Arkansas, but they got UCF and that is ok. These guys have something to prove and are much better than people give them credit for. The way they played that 1st half against the Seminoles was the best anyone has played against the Seminoles all year long. While the Seminoles crushed their hopes and dreams that day, they rebounded nicely after a mid-season meltdown. They actually even dismantled their rivals from Chapel Hill in the last week of the regular season. This team is out to prove something and not many teams can derail them. That includes American Athletic Conference Champ UCF. The Knights have had a strong season, but NC State just has more to play for and was playing better down the stretch. They should keep that going and pull off what most would consider an upset. This isn't an upset to me, but it will surprise many.

NC State 37 - UCF 30

Military Bowl
Cincinnati v. Virginia Tech
Dec. 27 1 PM ESPN

The Hokies and Bearcats had two common opponents, the Ohio State Buckeyes, and the East Carolina Pirates. Against East Carolina, Virginia Tech lost, but Cincinnati won. However, against Ohio State Cincinnati lost and Virginia Tech won. Both teams were inconsistent this season, with up and down performances all season long. Virginia Tech did have the more difficult schedule. One is playing for respect and a possible spot in a better conference maybe the Big 12 and the other is playing for Frank Beamer's job. This one should be interesting because the teams are so evenly matched. I think Cincinnati has slightly more motivation though trying to prove they belong with the big boys.

Cincinnati 24 - Virginia Tech 21

Hyundai Sun Bowl
Arizona State v. Duke
Dec. 27 2 PM CBS

Until both of these teams had some late losses, we were talking about each of these teams in the New Years Day Bowls. Duke in particular seemed destined for an Orange Bowl Bid after beating Georgia Tech on the road. However, the Blue Devils looked awful in November losing to Virginia Tech and North Carolina. Arizona State meanwhile followed a blowout win over Notre Dame by losing in Corvallis. The Sun Devils then closed out the season with a loss at Arizona. This match-up pits two really good teams with awful finishes. These teams should be in a better game, but this gives us a great matchup. Arizona has more talent and will be heavily favored, but their pass defense is horrific. If Duke can take advantage of that they should win. The Sun Devils also have a bit of quarterback controversy after a switch in the Arizona game. Duke has more motivation in this one and getting to 10 wins for that program is still huge. I like the upset in this one.
Duke 38 - Arizona State 33

Duck Commander Independence Bowl
Miami v. South Carolina
Dec. 27 3:30 PM ABC

This game has become somewhat controversial between two fanbases that want no part of playing in this game. Shreveport has been dissed as a city as a result and Tim Brando is not happy about that. The lack of fan excitement has got to make the company sponsoring this bowl and the city of Shreveport ticked off. Ya, these are two teams that expected to do much better, but all these teams are showing is a lack of dedication in their fanbases. South Carolina should be able to sell more tickets to this game and the fact that they don't kind of shows the arrogance of the SEC. If their team isn't as good, then they just pick up the conference banner and root for the top SEC team instead (usually Alabama) and talk about conference pride. How about you cheer on your own team that you said could win the SEC (and never has) and quit with the political BS. No motivation for South Carolina in this game, they are the weaker team, and Miami is trying to prove they are back. Miami should be able to prove something in this game and ACC teams should always be fired up against the SEC. I am excited to see this game for those reasons and because of the great company that is sponsoring this bad boy. Seeing the old ball coach finish with a losing record won't be something I shed any tears over as much as I despise Miami.

Miami 30 - South Carolina 17

New Era Pinstripe Bowl
Boston College v. Penn State
Dec. 27 4:30 PM ESPN

People really underrate this Boston College team. In fact, they may be the most underrated team in the country. BC absolutely dominated USC in their match-up this season. These guys gave FSU a run for their money and won all the games they were supposed to win. This rebuilding job at Boston College is looking really good with how the team has played. Winning 8 games is a big step forward for this program and it should happen. Penn State does not have the resume or the talent of Boston College, but they do have motivation. This game is Penn State's first bowl since their bowl ban was lifted. That alone should have the Nittany Lions fired up, but in the end Boston College is too much.

Boston College 28 - Penn State 24

National University Holiday Bowl
Nebraska v. USC 
Dec. 27 8 PM ESPN

Nebraska curiously fired Bo Pelini and hired Mike Reilly so it would be difficult seeing them pull off the win over a better USC team. It remains to be seen how these Cornhuskers respond to the interim coach and that will be the biggest story in this one. However, they could respond great and still lose because USC simply has better players. This USC team that could build some momentum towards 2015 and a potential playoff berth next season. If they win this game, that momentum will help them in next season as they build for that excitement.

USC 35 - Nebraska 17

Autozone Liberty Bowl
Texas A & M v. West Virginia 
Dec. 29 2 PM ESPN

Texas A & M dodging Texas in a bowl game is a punk move. For that reason alone I am pulling for the Mountaineers (I probably would have anyway). This A & M team was a trendy pick by many early to win the SEC title after they beat South Carolina. We later found out that South Carolina just wasn't that good and A & M wasn't either. They now match-up with another 7-5 team in West Virginia. West Virginia meanwhile was pretty impressive this season and even notched a big win over #4 Baylor. They were in every game this year including a week 1 match-up with Alabama. Senior QB Clint Trickett looks to go out with a win as West Virginia should roll against the Aggies.

West Virginia 56 - Texas A & M 42

Russell Athletic Bowl
Oklahoma v. Clemson
Dec. 29 5:30 PM ESPN

I would pick Clemson big in this one, but DeShaun Watson will be playing with a torn ACL. He did the same against South Carolina, but Oklahoma is not South Carolina. The Sooners aren't allergic to defense like the Gamecocks. It is a very poor decision in my opinion for Clemson to play Watson as I think this guy has a bright future. This is a team that could win the ACC next year with a healthy Watson so I don't see risking that in the Russell Athletic Bowl. Playing games with an injury of this magnitude can bite the Tigers in the long term and possibly in this game as well. Oklahoma doesn't have much to play for and was very disappointing this season, but it's hard for me to see them coming out flat. That being said, the Tigers should still win.

Clemson 38 - Oklahoma 35

AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl
Arkansas v. Texas 
Dec. 29 9 PM ESPN

Arkansas supposedly is the greatest 6-6 team ever and would win the majority of conferences in America. That is at least if you listen to SEC fans, or I guess SEC West fans now since they seem to have dropped the East...

The reality is that Arkansas is a good squad, but that the SEC West is highly overrated. That being said, Texas isn't exactly setting the world on fire this season. Their one common opponent in Texas Tech was beaten by 21 points by a visiting Texas and by 21 points by a visiting Arkansas. It is crazy that the common opponent was beaten by the same margin by both teams. That should show you about how evenly matched these teams are. The difference in this match-up has to be coaching. Coaches don't get much better than Charlie Strong and therefore you have to give the edge to Texas, This team likely is sick of the SEC as well from the overhype to A & M dodging them. No way they don't come out ready to play against the SEC.

Texas 30 - Arkansas 24

Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl
LSU v. Notre Dame
Dec. 30 3 PM ESPN

You can't like the way the Irish closed the season or the health of this team that has been decimated defensively by injuries. That would spell trouble against any team, but against a very talented LSU team it is a nightmare. LSU wants to make sure to put on a show with the rumors of Miles to Michigan ramping up again. However, if Miles does bolt for Michigan prior to this game it changes the outlook. Assuming things stay the same, LSU wins big.

LSU 28 - Notre Dame 10

Belk Bowl
Georgia v. Louisville
Dec. 30 6:30 PM ESPN

This game features the player that I like to watch the most in the country (not on the Noles), Gerod Holliman. He is a physical beast that will be making an impact on Sundays for years. It is a good opportunity to watch him and the rest of a surprising loaded Louisville roster. They get to match up with a loaded Georgia roster. The Belk Bowl will have a ton of talent out there. Louisville though is underrated and disrespected. I also don't think Georgia cares about this game at all. Those factors favor Louisville in a big way. Expect the Cards to look very impressive on December 30.

Louisville 35 - Georgia 21

Foster Farms Bowl
Maryland v. Stanford
Dec. 30 10 PM ESPN

Stanford had a disappointing year, but I don't think many people expect Maryland to hang with them. Stanford is clearly the better team with clearly the better coach. If Maryland pulls off the upset I will be shocked. Nothing else to say here, Stanford big.

Stanford 38 - Maryland 13

Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl
Ole Miss v. TCU
Dec. 31 12:30 PM ESPN

This game will just be awesome. I am really curious what happens in this game. You have a great team in Co-Big 12 champ TCU who is playing the only team that knocked off Alabama. Both teams are trying to prove they belong with the nation's elite. Both looking to make strides towards a playoff run next year. There is no team that will come out as motivated as TCU after dropping out of the Top 4 while winning by 52 in its last game. These guys are good and while Ole Miss is too, I think TCU is just a tad better. Expect a shootout that eventually goes TCU's way.

TCU 63 - Ole Miss 59

Vizio Fiesta Bowl
Boise State v. Arizona 
Dec. 31 4:00 PM ESPN

Boise State is back in the game where they shocked the nation 8 years ago. However, unlike that Oklahoma team, this Arizona team is motivated. They want to erase that embarrassment of the Pac-12 championship. Arizona also wants to have their best season since 1998 and prove they are a threat in the national championship race next season. These guys want to announce their presence with authority and will dismantle the Broncos. The Wildcats are simply better than Boise and look to prove it in the Fiesta Bowl.

Arizona 45 - Boise State 33

Capital One Orange Bowl
Georgia Tech v. Mississippi State
Dec. 31 8 PM ESPN

If this game was on a normal week with one week to prepare, I would definitely take Georgia Tech against Mississippi State. With multiple weeks to prepare though, it is a pretty even match-up. Georgia Tech's strengths do not lineup perfectly with Mississippi State's glaring weakness. That weakness in their secondary if exploited will lead to a sure win for the Jackets. Can they pass the ball though? Georgia Tech's attack doesn't lead to an ability to throw it. However, their running attack is so good that they might not need to pass to win. This game is very intriguing because it will be interesting to see if GT goes after that weakness or they just go with their normal gameplan. I know they will mostly run the ball, but that secondary is so bad. If Mississippi State had a secondary they could have easily won it all. As it stands, we will see what happens, but I think the Jackets pull it out.

Georgia Tech 25 - Mississippi State 21

Outback Bowl
Auburn v. Wisconsin
Jan. 1 NOON ESPN2

Auburn is the better team and they have the harder offense to stop. However, Wisconsin will be coached in this game by Barry Alvarez and they are going to be wanting to wipe out the embarrassment of their last game. The Alvarez factor will lead to victory over the Tigers who have been distracted by the Muschamp hiring. That being said nobody in Auburn will care because they will be a favorite to win it all next year due to the hiring. For this game though Wisconsin has a lot more motivation and will pull it out.

Wisconsin 28 - Auburn 24

Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
Michigan State v. Baylor
Jan. 1 12:30 PM ESPN

TCU and Baylor are quite upset that they were left out of the playoff. Having beaten TCU, Baylor has a legitimate gripe. These guys should have more motivation than anybody else not in the playoff. However, "motivation doesn't win games, execution does." The Baylor Bears will have to be focused an execute and I think they pull it off. They are better than Michigan State is and want to prove it. Look for Baylor to win here.

Baylor 38 - Michigan State 30

Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl
Missouri v. Minnesota
Jan. 1 1 PM ABC

Missouri already lost to a Big 10 team they had no business losing to. It is unlikely to happen again. Missouri is better than Minnesota, but they were better than Indiana and lost at home. This will be closer than most will predict because Minnesota is closer to Missouri than most think. However, at the end of the day Missouri is the better team. The Tigers also have no desire to end on a two game losing streak or to lose to two big 10 teams.

Missouri 35 - Minnesota 31

Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Houston v. Pittsburgh
Jan. 2 Noon ESPN

We will talk about my preseason prediction on another date, but it is safe to say I was off on Pitt. I picked Pitt to win 10 games and win the ACC Atlantic and they won 6 and finished 4th. However, they did close with a win at Miami and did show flashes of what I was predicting before the season. Losing their coach to Wisconsin, I don't see Pittsburgh showing that potential in a bowl game though. They will likely be more focused on their coach of the future than this January match-up with Houston and it will show on the field. My preseason ACC Atlantic pick will finish with a losing record...
Yes, I realize that Houston is in the same position technically, but they have already named an interim man and a new coach. Pittsburgh's head man is still in discussions with Wisconsin and is not devoting all of his time to this game. The players also have no idea who their new coach is. While the situation is similar it is not 100% the same and the Houston players should have more of a comfort level with the situation at hand.

Houston 27 - Pittsburgh 20

TaxSlayer Bowl
Iowa v. Tennessee
Jan. 2 3:20 PM ESPN

These are two teams that were very up and down this year. 

Is Iowa the team that won at Pitt and took Nebraska and Wisconsin to the brink, or are they the team that dropped a home game to in-state rival Iowa State?

Is Tennessee the team that pummeled Utah State or the team that lost at home to a Florida team with no offense and lost to every other meaningful opponent?

These teams both disappointed in my eyes although that Utah State win was impressive. The difference in this one is that Tennessee while disappointing, seems to be trending upwards and has the more impressive win. Tennessee also hasn't appeared in a bowl game since 2010 which should have them be ready to play in this one.

Tennessee 27 - Iowa 17

Valero Alamo Bowl
Kansas State v. UCLA
Jan. 2 6:45 PM ESPN

UCLA came into this season with so much hype. I was riding that bandwagon and picked them to make the college football playoff. I also picked Brett Hundley to win the Heisman and remain on that bandwagon. In this match-up of teams that each finished 3rd in their conference I pick UCLA because of Hundley. He is the best player on the field and should be looking to prove his value heading into the 2015 NFL Draft. Although he could be back to accomplish what he didn't this year following his regression from 2014. Either way, I expect a big game from Hundley.

UCLA 49 - Kansas State 45

TicketCity Cactus Bowl
Washington v. Oklahoma State
Jan. 2 10:15 PM ESPN

I firmly believe that Oklahoma State is the better team in this match-up. However, Oklahoma State has been here before and likely doesn't care as much about this game. They wouldn't even be bowl eligible if it wasn't for Tyreek Hill either. That individual was dismissed from the Oklahoma State team following his arrest. With that fact and the fact that this team just seems gassed, it is difficult to see them beating a hungry Washington team.

Washington 35 - Oklahoma State 21

Birmingham Bowl
East Carolina v. Florida
Jan. 3 1 PM ESPN

Florida's defense is outstanding, but their offense isn't up to par. ECU is the opposite of that with a solid offense and a lackluster D. We got strength on strength with two pretty evenly matched teams. Florida does have more talent than East Carolina, but East Carolina is desperate for respect from the big teams. They also have 4 wins over Power 5 teams the last two seasons. Florida hasn't won a bowl game since 2011 though and the Gators likely will want to impress new coach Jim McElwain. I am conflicted on what I think will happen in this one, but I think Florida pulls it out.

Florida 17 - East Carolina 14

GoDaddy Bowl
Toledo v. Arkansas State
Jan. 4 9 PM ESPN

 This is Arkansas State's 4th straight trip to Mobile. Toledo wasn't in a bowl last year. Toledo should care more than Arkansas State and can pull off the win. This game really should not be played after New Years. It simply is not an enticing game, but I'm going with Toledo.
Toledo 24 - Arkansas State 21

My playoff predictions are coming too. However, with all of this in one post and these games fast approaching, I thought I would put the playoff analysis in a different post since that will go much more in depth. Happy Bowl Season everyone! If my picks win you money do not hesitate to share...

-Noland