Week 1 Picks: Perfection Starts Here

Well taking LSU last night -18 was about the easiest bet I've ever made. Just a completely inexplicable line. I've often thought that they made Thursday night lines a little easier, in hopes to get you excited about betting all weekend. But that was just ridiculous. There's a very good reason why I start off the season lightning hot every September. It's because favorites when big early in the season. And I have a lot of trouble picking underdogs. Really I should bet about $500/game in September and then give up when October rolls around. But we know that's not going to happen.


MIAMI -18 Marshall: I think the Miami backlash has hit it's peak. I think the new coaching staff breathes life back into this program. The defense should still be nasty and hopefully the offense has improved. Marshall is starting a slide back into obscurity.

Ole Miss -2.5 MEMPHIS: Memphis is a team in shambles. I think the Rebels play field position, run the ball, control the clock, and make sure they win this game. Play turnover free and you win the game. I'd also have to imagine that Orgeron realizes how important this game is for recruiting. You have a chance to go and show off your program in the recruiting epicenter of your region.

Missouri -4.5 ILLINOIS: Mizzou's got the offensive fire power this year. The Illini are coached by Ron Zook. Supposedly they're bringing talent into Urbana-Champaign, but I don't think all of it's in place yet.

NC STATE -8 Central Florida: Tom O'Brien needs to announce his presence with authority. And only beating the mighty CFU Knights by 8 points is not the way to do it.

AUBURN -13.5 Kansas State: There have been games over the years where you know Tommy Tuberville is going to do just enough to win. He's making sure he doesn't lose the game instead of winning. Luckily, against KSU, that's exactly the game plan that will lead to victory. Auburn needs to come out with a power running game, play field position, and let the defense take control of the game. The Wildcats defensive strengths are their pass rushing ends and their secondary. So there is no need to screw around with trying to develop a passing game (save that for Miss St). Defensively I think you'll see a beat down. This Auburn defense is poised and ready to explode. This is a speedy hard hitting team. The defensive line looks like it could be the best of the Tuberville era. The linebackers are smallish but quick as hell. And the secondary seems to be coming together nicely. The biggest bonus being safeties with great man coverage skills. I'll give KSU one or two deep passing plays to their giant wide receivers. 31-10 Auburn. And maybe we'll see this girl in the stands.

VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER!

Remember to casually throw a football on Friday to warm up. You don't wanna go and do something stupid like throw your arm out at the tailgate on Saturday. Rotator Cuff surgery takes even longer to recover from than a high ankle sprain. Even if you've thrown lately, you probably need to practice catching with a Solo cup in your left hand.

SEC Predictions

Since I didn't do much research in advance, and because of recent developments, several of my opinions have changed over the last two weeks. I still think we are going to see some better offensive performances then we've seen in some time. I think I originally rated the decline of Florida and Arkansas a little too severe. And with all that being said, I think the SEC East is a complete crap shoot. It's a mixture of typically dominant teams in a down cycle and up and coming teams with hard schedules. No single game result will surprise me. I would be a little shocked if USC, Vandy, or Kentucky made it to Atlanta though. I can't imagine a scenario where Auburn, LSU, or Arkansas doesn't emerge from the West and I'm not sure I think Arkansas even has a shot.

Switched games: Arkansas over bama, Florida over USC

SEC West:

LSU 8-0

Auburn 6-2

Arkansas 5-3

bama 3-5

Ole Miss 1-7

Mississippi State 0-8

SEC East:

Tennessee 7-1

Florida 6-2

Georgia 5-3

South Carolina 4-4

Vanderbilt 2-6

Kentucky 1-7

SEC Champion: LSU

SEC Schedule a Day: Vanderbilt

With all apologies to friends of the Commodores, today we're playing the Lightning Round.

9/1 Richmond

I didn't even know the Spiders had a football team. Dores triumph

9/8 bama

This should be a really close game, and a game that Vandy stands a great chance to win. And as much as I'd love to see it, I don't see it happening.

9/15 Ole Miss

Dores Win! Dores Win! Dores Win!

9/29 Eastern Michigan

Curious off week before this game. Vanderbilt enjoys any win they can get after the last 24 years.

10/6 at Auburn

No how no way Vandy wins this game. Who do you think we are? Georgia?

10/13 Georgia

Speak of the devil. If Vandy were to win this game for the second year in a row, I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet that Bobby Johnson is feeding his team steroids.

10/20 at South Carolina

eh. There is no reason why Vandy couldn't win this game. They put on a show two years ago in Columbia. I think USC may have the slight talent advantage at this point.

10/27 Miami of Ohio

It would have been cool if somehow Wally Szceeraerbiak could have been a tight end for Ben Roeaethlisbueager. But they don't have anybody on that talent level this year. Vandy wins.

11/3 at Florida

Vandy was robbed two years ago. I don't see them keeping this close enough for a ridiculous celebration penalty to possibly decide the game.

11/10 Kentucky

Well this definitely has to be the only time in my life that I've been excited for this game. I swear the SEC is turning into the Pac 10. Shootouts baby Shootouts. Year of the Dores.

11/17 at Tennessee

Vandy apparently wins this game once in a lifetime. It's already happened in my lifetime. Vols win.

11/24 Wake Forrest

You think Vandy wishes they were in the East so they'd have a chance at winning the conference crown like Wake did. Seriously. We need to address this. What would you consider Wake's landmark victory last year? A win over 10-3 Boston College at home. The ACC is a joke. Say you want to the about the SEC, but they've never had a championship game matchup as bad as Wake and Georgia Tech. Umm... yeah. So Vandy wins.

Record: 6-6 SEC: 2-6

Unsurprisingly I just looked at four Vandy blogs and they all suck. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt and say that their Rivals and Scouts sites are jam packed with info and render blogs useless.

You know how to find the preview links by now. I'll try to wrap up the predictions, with a few changes tomorrow. And then have my betting picks on Friday.

Top 10 Sportscenter Commercials

I actually think they got this top 10 pretty close. I probably would have added

The Perfect Show: "that's the type of thing that can't never happen"..."that's a double negative..he's outta there"

Marquis de Sod: where they put turf in the offices

Prank war: I forgot the start of it, but it ends up with Evander Holyfield wandering around the studio looking to beat up Charlie Steiner "it's time to get your whooping Charlie". "He said you weren't in the top 100 boxers....in Georgia"

SEC Schedule a Day: Tennessee

The fighting creamsicles having been drifting in and out of relevance for several years now. Believe it or not Erik Ainge is a senior quarterback now, the running game should be back in some respect, though the defense isn't beastly. When Ainge was healthy last year David Cutcliffe proved he is still an offensive juggernaut. Should be an interesting year in Knoxville. And we should get a good idea how the season is going to end up after three games.

9/1 at Cal

I'm taking Tennessee. Plain and simple. (edit: I'm taking Cal)

9/8 Southern Miss

Since the departure of Bret Farve Southern Miss has been able to do little more than scare a variety of SEC teams. UT squeaks by while trying to preserve something for the trip to Gainesville the following weekend.

9/15 at Florida

I'm taking Tennesee. But I reserve the right to retract that pick if any Volunteer player is seen doing the chomp on national television before the end of the game. Early on in the season it would seem to me that Tennessee has the edge. They have the returning starter at qb, they have the running game, and they have plenty of speed in the secondary to keep up with the lightning fast Florida wide outs. (edit: scratch all that reasoning... it's tough to win in the Swamp)

9/22 Arkansas State

Big win. Just a landmark game for the a program like Tennessee

10/6 Georgia

I don't normally like teams that play at home after an off week. And at some point I there was an awful stat showing Fulmer's record in games after off weeks, though I think most of those defeats came against Spurrier. But I just can't get sold on Georgia this year. I don't see anything they can really hang their hat on, other than potential. Smokey mounts Uga.

10/13 at Mississippi State

I wonder if the Bulldogs put up more of a fight than Southern Miss? The Vols cruise to a big victory.

10/20 at Alabama

When looking at offensive vs. defensive matchups. UT's offense vs. bama defense is the biggest mismatch. The front seven for bama is weak to begin with and then thin in depth department as well. This is about the point in the year when bama fans will back off the "we will win the SEC championship" bravado they had in the preseason and move onto the "Saban's teams always prosper in year 2" logic or something like that. We'd all be lucky if they collectively became mutes.

11/3 Louisiana-Lafayette

Ooh La La is double dipping in SEC waters this year. Hope the paycheck is big because the results won't be.

11/10 Arkansas

I personally think Arkansas dodged a huge bullet last year by Ainge being injured for this game. That game would have knocked them out of the SEC Championship game and possibly moved them way down the bowl chain. This year I don't think they have the same luck. UT should be able to slow down the Arkansas running attack to extent and then throw at will on the Arkansas secondary.

11/17 Vanderbilt

At the end of the day this is still Vandy vs. Tennessee. There may be the occasional upset once every 10-15 years but that's about it. Volunteers get by.

11/24 at Kentucky

I can't believe I'm previewing the SEC season and keep imagining offensive duals. Maybe it's just the wishful thinking of the offseason. When all is said and done, even if Kentucky has a great year offensivley, the Vol defense is still light years ahead of the Wildcats.

Wait what? Did I just predict UT to go undefeated? That doesn't sound right. Ummm.... hmm.... Have undefeated teams ever met in the SEC Championship game? Well screw it. The hardest games are at Cal and at Florida. So let's edit and say they lose both games. That seems fair.


Record: 10-2 SEC 7-1

Links

Featured Blog: there are like a thousand of them. Rocky Top Talk
Featured Post: The Stoener Stumble: because it's about the UT band to some extent. For the 2004 SEC Championship game we got tickets from one our duplicator in Chattanooga. And weren't my dad just the two luckiest Auburn fans ever? We sat three rows behind the Tennesee band. Good times. You know, once we finally put the game away. Before that... I hated every second of Rocky Top.

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SEC Schedule a Day: South Carolina

If South Carolina was waiting for a year where the heavy weights of the SEC East don't look unbeatable, this may be the year. However a schedule featuring road games at Georgia, LSU, Arkansas, and Tennessee is daunting for anyone. As far a predicitions, things seem to be changing by the minute. Since I picked the Cock's victory over the Dawgs last week, Spurrier has suspended Blake Mitchell for the first game. So I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't start in week 2 and we get a look at what Chris Smelley can do.

9/1 University of Louisiana LaFayette

Ooh La La comes to Williams Bryce for a healthy dose of punishment and a pay check. I think Spurrier is ready to get back in the habit of scoring 40 points. It's been too long since he was able to just roll over teams.

9/8 at Georgia

I'm sticking with this prediction. I can't remember I heard good news coming out of a practice report in Athens. Their offensive line is a mess, the defense is looking for leaders, etc etc. Eventually the sun even shines on a dog's ass. Or in the case a glorified chicken. USC finally pulls off the win they've seem so close to the last 4-5 years.

9/15 South Carolina State

I take it that there won't be a return game in Orangeburg next year? If USC pulls off the win in Athens, they should put up some points and get the hype train rolling. Some delusional fans in Columbia will begin to believe they've finally arrived.

9/22 at LSU

Reality sets in. Spurrier has been able to game plan his way to some surprising victories the last few seasons. But he's still talent deficient. LSU has too much size and speed for USC to overcome. Baton Rouge is rocking for what may be a battle of top 15 teams. LSU wins.

9/29 Mississippi State

Can we just change their mascot to the Mississippi State Whipping Boys?

10/4 Kentucky

I'm taking South Carolina in this one. I think they may be a little stronger top to bottom. Then you throw in the coaching and home field advantage and the Gamecocks look like an easier pick.

10/13 at North Carolina

Me likey. This is a fun game. I'm curious to see what Butch Davis can put together up in Chapel Hill. But from all accounts I've seen, it's going to take a few years. I say the Gamecocks win the battle of the Carolinas with an overwhelming speed advantage.

10/20 Vanderbilt

I think any game involving Vandy or Kentucky this year is a toss up game. They're gonna sneak up and beat somebody. Basically at this point with the SEC East I'm just taking the home team. South Carolina keeps chugging along with the trip to LSU being the only blemish.

10/27 at Tennessee

I think the Vols are back and that means winning games like this. The UT defense should be up to speed by this time of the year. And the little crawl I'm watching at the bottom of the ESPN College Gameday Preview just notified me that Lamarcus Coker will be back from his suspension for game 2. I think the Volunteer offense will roll this year. Is David Cutcliffe too old to get offered another head coaching job?

11/3 at Arkansas

Oil and Water, Cats and Dogs, Passing and Running. Offensively these teams would have trouble being more different. Defensively I think the Hogs will be better at this point in the year. I think South Carolina has the ability to win this game, I'm just guessing that the Razorbacks pull off this one.

11/10 Florida

So after thinking about by my bold claim last week of a USC victory and talking about it at several bars. I've changed my mind. People fave gotten a little carried away with the Florida drop off this year. Tim Tebow might not be an All American this year, but he's going to be a quality starter. He's got talent all around him, he's got an arm, a good coach, and if all else fails he can tuck it and run it. And he's not built in a manner that he's susceptible to injuries. He's like a Donnovan McNabb or Daunte Culpepper coming out of college. The Gators prevail.

11/24 Clemson

At some point in the year the Tommy Bowden era will finally come to a close. I'm not sure if that's good or bad for Clemson, but I think this is the year that it finally happens. I think Tommy is a good coach but it's time for a change. The Gamecocks take the game and set themselves up for another fantastic recruiting crop next year.

Record 8-4 SEC: 4-4

Links

Featured Blog: Cock N Fire
Featured Post: SEC Power Poll Introduction because it's a good idea.

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i'm just saying

it's a pretty impressive stat

Nick Saban doesn't have time for multiple photo shoots

So Nick Saban is going to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. Fortunately Gump for Heisman got their hands on the rejected cover ideas.

SEC Schedule a Day: Ole Miss

I made the mistake of thinking that Ole Miss was at the start of a turnaround last year. It seemed like the defense was pretty solid and with Brent Schaeffer finally on campus they could maybe put an offense together. Well I was wrong. Right now it appears that both Mississippi teams have fallen behind Kentucky and Vanderbilt. In reality we've seen a complete switch in the SEC West and SEC East over the last five years. The East used to be top heavy and have both the powers of the league and the absolute dregs. This years looks like LSU and Auburn may be the class of the league while things could get wacky in the East and see a 3 conference loss team make it to Atlanta. If Ole Miss makes this season a turnaround for the program it'll be a surprise to me.

9/1 at Memphis

It's time for Ole Miss to quit losing this game. Memphis' program is in complete disarray right now. Start off the season on a high note and please the alums in Memphis. Ole Miss finds a way to win.

9/8 Missouri

The Mizzou Tigers will be rolling into Oxford with a major league offensive attack. Chase Daniel and the boys put on a display early in the season last year with the adoption of the spread. And winning on the road against an SEC team would be a huge win for the program and the first step towards winning the Big 12 North. Unfortunately I'm going with Missouri on this one.

9/15 at Vanderbilt

This may be the year of the Commodore. The year they finally make it back to a bowl game. And they will need this win badly to make it happen. I think Vandy moves the ball consistantly and plays well enough on defense to win the game.

9/22 Florida

So would you rather have one of the elite teams from the other half of the league roll onto your schedule in a good or bad year. I think I'd rather have it in a bad year. Sure you've got no chance to win, but it also isn't going to ruin your season. If you've got a senior quarterback and want to make a run at winning the rest, you'd be much better off facing Kentucky, Vandy, or South Carolina. Florida wins big.

9/29 at Georgia

Looking back at last year, the Rebel defense performed pretty well in general. Sadly, the offense was not able to score more than 28 points in any game. The Rebs were pretty stout at home but all of their big losses came on the road. I'd imagine this year to be more of the same. The dawgs roll in Athens.

10/6 Louisiana Tech

This isn't your older brothers LaTech. No longer pass happy, the bulldogs of the blue and red variety are also no longer a threat. Ole Miss stops the bleeding and grabs a victory.

10/13 Alabama

This game has been ridiculously close the last few years and should be again. I think a late turnover spells disaster for the Rebels. Honestly, nothing sticks out to me about Ole Miss this year. They should have a pretty solid defensive line but I don't see any stars on the team.

10/20 Arkansas

Possibly another close game that comes down to ball control, field position, or special teams. Here's the thing. I have a lot of faith in the Hogs offensive line, McFadden, Jones, and Hillis. I have no such feelings about Ole Miss.

10/27 Auburn

Unlike last year's game in Oxford, Auburn will enter this game with an offense that can actually move the ball. That's pretty much the difference. Auburn can put points on the board and Ole Miss can't. Now that being said, yesterday I suggested that Miss St. get quirky and try some different things on offense. On the contrary, I'm lead to believe that Ole Miss could actually have some impressive recruiting years and compete. What they need though is a great coach. Someone who is an established coordinator (not sure they should have canned Cutcliffe) and is ready to make the jump. I hate to say it, but someone like Will Muschamp would probably be a good hire.

11/3 Northwestern State

Seriously? Ole Miss couldn't score 30 points against NW State last year? That must have been a painful season to endure. Here's hoping they put up 40 this year for the fan's sake.

11/17 Louisiana State

I can't remember watching the game, but Ole Miss gave LSU quite the scare last year. And I guess with the game in Oxford it's a possibility again this year. But you know, I wouldn't pick it. I like frontrunners not underdogs at least as far as predictions go. I think LSU wins this game with the passing game.

11/23 Mississippi State

Ole MIss really needs to win about 8 of these in a row and really cement their dominancy in state. That is the first step. Next beat a couple of the local schools: Memphis, Arkansas, LSU, and get that one transcendant playmaker (Jevan Snead?) and turn the program around. The Rebs take the Egg Bowl and hopefully the program takes a turn for the better next year.

Record: 4-8 SEC: 1-7

Links:

Featured Blog: The Hotty Toddy Blog
Featured Post: Ole Miss Fans Talk About the Auburn Game

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SEC Schedule a Day: Mississippi State

Geez. This is going to be depressing. It's never a good sign when part of your preview from College Football News features a segment like this:

"Key player to a successful season: Junior QB Michael Henig. He’s not accurate, he’s not a winner quite yet, and he doesn’t have much in the way of skills, but he’s the quarterback the coaching staff will go with, hoping he can do just enough to give the Bulldogs some semblance of a passing game. If he’s awful, the MSU offense will be, too."

Now that's the guy I want leading me into battle. When Sylvester Croom got hired I was pulling for MSU to maybe get good enough to finish 3rd in the West at some point. And at this moment I don't really see how that's a possibility.

8/30 LSU

MSU starting off their season with LSU is like having someone kicking you in the balls 5 seconds after your alarm goes off. Leave your cowbells at home.

9/8 at Tulane

I guess the plus side is that the Bulldogs get nine days to prepare for the game and it will be Tulane's first game of the year. On the downside, MSU couldn't beat the Green Wave in Starkville last year. My instinct, though I know nothing about them (just found out Bob Toledo is coaching them this year), is to take Tulane. But there are a bunch of seniors/juniors on both sides of the line for the Dogs. Make the SEC proud. MSU pulls out the victory.

9/15 at Auburn

Nice break for Auburn after opening the season against Kansas State and South Florida. I've been absolutely amazed at the talent disparity in this game over the last four seasons. It might be time for Mississippi State to do one of two things to turn things around. 1) Cheat a.k.a the Jackie Sherrill method 2) Get quirky. Either go spread, or old school option. But trying to run a pro style offense with inferior talent isn't going to do anything. Surely Miss St. can out recruit Boise St. So it's just a matter of accepting who you are and trying to get back to mediocre. I would hire a coach from a small up and coming school. Like Vandy did with Bobby Johnson.

9/22 Gardner Webb

Who? Miss State wins against the fighting Artis Gilmore's.

9/29 at South Carolina

You think Steve Spurrier is still winning games for the equiptment manager that got knocked out in Starkvegas during his Gator coaching days? Probably not but the end result will be about the same. Cocks win big.

10/6 Alabama-Birmingham

This game would be a lot more interesting if Jimbo Fisher would have gotten the job. As is Miss St better take advantage of the UAB down cycle and appreciate the victory.

10/13 Tennessee

The third of the Bulldog's massive SEC blowout defeats. It's got to be hard to be a fan/student at this point. How many losing seasons in a row can you handle?

10/20 at West Virginia

Sadly, this could be the biggest blowout of the season. Make the pain stop. Slaton and White get their heisman hopeful performances on. How hard core of a Miss State fan do you have to be to make the trip to Morgantown. I'd gues you'd pretty much have to be a player's parent, retired and own an RV and really be making the trip for the foliage, or the biggest fan of couch burning in recorded history.

10/27 at Kentucky

Ok. Here is you absolute sign of the times. Mississippi State doesn't even have a shot in this game. And I didn't even predict Kentucky to have a great season (though I'm starting to think I could be wrong on that. They could easily add Vandy, South Carolina, and UGA as possible victories).

11/3 Let's hope Mississippi State doesn't figure out a way to lose during an off week?

11/10 at bama

This is getting boring. If it take walking down onto the field and paying officials in the 4th quarter, bama makes sure they don't lose to MSU two years in a row.

11/17 at Arkansas

Darren McFadden

11/23 at Ole Miss

The Egg Bowl where anything can happen. Maybe MSU gets inspired by playing tough for previously fired Coach Croom. Probably not though. Ole Miss restores order in this rivalry.

Record: 3-9 SEC 0-8

Links:

Featured Blog: Hail Dear Ole State
Featured Post: We Have SEC Talent at Every Position and the picture below

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Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground

While I was doing some research for our new site freemandolinvideos.com at work the other day I stumbled across this video. It's Chris Thile who used to be the main guy from Nickel Creek. He's broken off on his own and is now performing as Chris Thile and The Tensions Mountain Boys who you can read more about here. This is his bluegrass take on Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground by the White Stripes. I think it's has a cool and dark feel to it, though it's obviously not as rocking as the original version.

SEC Schedule a Day: LSU

Just about everyone in the media is tabbing LSU as the second best team in America behind USC. And there is plenty of reason to do that. The team is loaded with talent. At this point it's just a matter of people stepping up and the coaches getting the job done. The biggest question marks are at quarterback, running back, and new offensive coordinator Gary Crowton's system. They all have game experience and the luxury of a stellar defense.

8/30 at Mississippi State

Thursday night kick off to start off the season. If LSU is at all worried about winning over the media this will be their first shot on national television. However, I think they'll be more worried about supplying Virginia Tech with too much game film. Strike fast and often and then let the young guys get in as much as possible. Nice little warm up game for LSU.

9/8 Virginia Tech

What a huge game. Both teams come in to the season with very realistic chances not just of winning their conference but also playing for the national title. Both defenses are just flooded with quality players. This should be a low scoring and extremely physical ball game. I'm not sure I trust the Hokie's offense on the road this early in the year. And you know that Death Valley will be rocking. I say LSU gets away with a 3-7 point victory. Matt Flynn needs to avoid turnovers and just manage the game.

9/15 Middle Tennessee State

The first real chance for the LSU offense to get rolling. This will be a great opportunity for Crowton to see if he can generate a ground game with Keiland Williams, Jacob Hester and company. That'll be a key to winning for the rest of the year.

9/22 South Carolina

Maybe if Spurrier sticks around for a few more years and continues to recruit the same way they'd have a shot at winning in Baton Rouge. But they just aren't there yet.

9/29 at Tulane

Will this be the first of two games that LSU will play in New Orleans this year? If so, this will definitely be the easier of the two. This game may have used to be a rivalry but it is now a lesson in the haves and have nots of college football. LSU by upwards of 40 points

10/6 Florida

During LSU's 2003 national championship season a home game against Florida was the only blemish. I think a similar failure this year would keep them out of the national championship game. They're should be a ton of speed all over the field but the experience and home field advantage lies in LSU's favor. I think LSU wins the game but most importantly I just want to see some kind of on-field interaction between Glenn Dorsey and Tim Tebow.

10/13 at Kentucky

This will be LSU's toughest road test to date. But I don't think it'll be that tough of a game. The offense should have things rolling by now and capable of putting up 35+ point on the Wildcats. If anyone scores more than 35 points on LSU this year I'll be absolutely shocked.

10/20 Auburn

The odd thing about the current state of this rivalry is the flip flop in the time of year it's played. In even number years the game is played in Auburn as the third game of the year. On odd years it's around the 8th game of the year in Baton Rouge. It also always seems to be a day game in Auburn and conveniently a night game in Baton Rouge. Auburn has lost in their last three trips to Red Stick and unfortunately I don't see that streak ending. Auburn's defense should be up to the task but I worry about a lot of inexperienced faces on the offensive side of the ball and special teams. Could be a close one that is once again settled by a missed kick or last second opportunity.

11/3 at Alabama

Hmm... Think anyone in the national media will cover this game? The only person on earth that Les Miles despises more than Hayley Lafontaine is Nick Saban. Do you know how many times people have insinuated that Les is only winning because he has Nick's recruits? That's got to be unnerving. LSU has the chip on their shoulder and the talent to win this game going away.

11/10 Louisiana Tech

After back to back weeks of vicious games, the Bayou Bengals get a breather. LaTech isn't a complete dog of a team but they don't pose any credible threat either.

11/17 at Ole Miss

The Rebels have managed to make this game close 3 of the last 4 years. But have managed to come away with a victory. This late in the year a seemingly pre-occupied LSU could have some trouble on their hands. However, that just not something I'm going to predict this far out.

11/23 Arkansas

It'd be awesome if Darren McFadden could single handedly crush LSU's national championship hopes, secure the Heisman, and possibly propel his team to the SEC Championship game all in one day. But that's asking a lot. This LSU defense is way too good to just have someone line up and run up and down the field on them. A diverse offensive attack should allow LSU to put some points on the board. LSU manages to get by unscathed.


I think it's actually more than likely that LSU loses a game. I'm just not sure I see one that's predictable. They don't have a tough road game and I can't predict injuries. I guess you could say the four tough games are Auburn, Florida, Va Tech, and bama. Possibly in that order.

Record: 12-0 SEC: 8-0

Links:

Featured Blog: And the Valley Shook
Featured Post: An examination of LSU's 2006 Running Back By Committee approach

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SEC Schedule a Day: Kentucky

Kentucky Football embrace the new found excitement. And if all else fails apparently one hot chick digs their hockey team. By all accounts this is supposed to be the most talented Wildcat team since Mumme and Couch were still in Lexington. The recruiting classes have been peppered with a few legitimate blue chippers for the past few years and the results are starting to show. I first took note during the Auburn/Kentucky game in Lexington back in 2005. Then they reeled off a few impressive victories last year over the likes of Georgia and Clemson. Is it time for football to be more than just a way to kill time until basketball starts?

9/1 Eastern Kentucky

First of all, big props to Eastern Kentucky for their Colonel mascot/logo. Really came up with a hip version of Colonel Sanders. I think Ole Miss should have hired the same graphic artist when the decided to come up with an updated rebel. As for the game, Kentucky needs to win huge and get the bandwagon and confidence rolling.

9/8 Kent State

You think a really bad PA guy has ever played Neil Young's Ohio when Kent State comes to town? The Wildcats roll again and turn their focus into their first huge test of the year.

9/15 Louisville

The Cardinals also have two warmup games in Murray State and Middle Tennessee. It'll be interesting how much of the playbook they show off with a new coaching staff at the helm. I've mentioned in a couple other game previews that they may be shootouts. Well that's never been more true than this game. Really I'd be shocked if either teams scored less than 35 points in this game. Kentucky and Lousiville are both returning plenty of talent on the offensive side of the ball, but both defenses are young and experienced. With a 7:30 start could home field advantage be the difference? I'm going to say yes in an early upset special.

9/22 at Arkansas

Ball controll, time of posession, and home field advantage will be the reasons for a Hog victory. Though I expect it to be a hard fought battle that Arkansas pulls out late. You could easily flip flop this game with the Louisville game results wise. I think they'll be in both and it's a tough call. I think they pull out one victory.

9/29 Florida Atlantic

Lot of lower tier teams getting multiple pay checks from SEC schools. Not a bad way to build up your athletic budget. However, not a good way to pick up victories. Wildcats roll.

10/4 at South Carolina

This should be aerial battle. Pac 10 like even. Unfortunately for the Wildcats I don't see them being much of a road team this year. I feel like you have to be able to get defensive stops to win on the road in the SEC. And judging by Kentucky's secondary last year, that will not be something their capable of doing.

10/13 Louisiana State

The best thing about this game maybe bringing up memories of the Bluegrass Miracle. I wouldn't expect the Wildcats to keep this year's meeting quite so close. Just too much defense by the boys from the Bayou.



10/20 Florida

If Kentucky is ever going to have a chance to beat Florida in the near future this might be the year. Tim Tebow doesn't feel the same way though. Gators pull out a victory.

10/27 Mississippi State

Isn't it great to have MSU to pick on. It's like playing another out of conference game against a mid-major. Ohh... sorry about that bama fans. I can't think of two SEC coaches I know less about than Croom and Brooks. Kentucky fans enjoy the step down in competition and pick up another victory.

11/10 at Vanderbilt

This is when the SEC sucks sometimes. These will be two of the best Vandy and Kentucky games in recent years and this game will still decided who's going to finish last in the SEC East. I think the Commodores will be especially desperate to pick up the victory and make it to a bowl this year.

11/17 at Georgia

Two weeks in a row on the road and two straight weeks of defeat. Vandy isn't going to sneak up on the Dawgs this year and they'll be wanting to snag every victory they can get this year. I feel bad that Kentucky can't capitalize more this year.

11/24 Tennessee

Tennessee is more or less back. Which means their traditional year end victories over Vandy and Kentucky return. Too much talent.

Record: 5-7 SEC: 1-7

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SEC Schedule a Day: Georgia

Last year was a bad season for the dawgs that could have very easily been much worse. How will Georgia respond this year? How will Georgia fans respond to Mark Richt if they have another disappointing year? Will Georgia fans have to be called out of the stands to fill up spots for the injured offensive line? Hopefully not. I wouldn't want the Crafty Vet to sprain an ankle during pre-game stretches. And I think we all know the real reason why The Railbird would be puking on the sidelines.

9/1 Oklahoma State

Tough opener. The Cowboys should put a lot of pressure on what I expect to be a subpar Georgia secondary. However, the Okies won't be able to exploit the weaknesses in the Dawg offensive line. This should be about as big of shootout as you can have in an opener. Something like 31-27 in favor of the Red and Black. Kinda remniscent of that 2002? opener against Clemson that ended with the field goal.

9/8 South Carolina

Off the top of my head, I feel like Georgia is the only team in the SEC East that Spurrier hasn't beaten as USC's coach. Seems like an opportune time to remedy that. Spurrier should be able to game plan circles around Willy Martinez (whom I haven't been impressed with). Unless Georgia figures out a way to get their tailbacks some yardage, I don't think they have the firepower to win. Of course the Gamecocks threaten every year and figure out a way to lose. I'm rolling the dice and taking USC.

9/15 Western Carolina

I heard Jarvis and Jonas Hayes were going to cheer for the Catamounts in this game. No lie. I shit you not. In less important news, this is a chance for the Dawgs to rest up for the trip to Tuscaloosa.

9/22 at bama

These are pretty similar teams. However I think UGA's defense is a little better this year and the special teams gives them an edge. This may be the game that America is finally introduced to Kregg Lumpkin. I guess technically this would be my meteor game.

9/29 Ole Miss

Are Coach Richt and Orgeron exact opposites? I think so. This game would be more intriguing in the Grove. I'd have to imagine the dawgs pull this one out.

10/06 at Tennessee

So the Vols rolled into Athens on all cylinders last year and put on a show (on the field and off the field). It'd be impressive if Matt Stafford could put on a show in Knoxville like David Greene did back in 2002. And that's what it'll take for a win. A huge, gigantic, have fans name their kids after you type of day by Stafford. And um... I don't see that happening.

10/13 at Vanderbilt

So do the Dawgs just hang out in Tennesee all week? Maybe practice at the MTSU fields in Murfreesboro? I can't believe I'm saying this....but this is a revenge game for the Dawgs. If UGA loses this game they might as well just pack up their bags and head home to mama. Richt is too smart to let the dawgs not show up for this game.

10/27 World's Large Coke Orgy

Serious question for Georgia fans. Do you in general have good memories of going to games in Jacksonville. Are you able to enjoy the weekend despite the less than stellar record over the last 15 years? This is not a put down. I'm asking because it takes a lot of effort and money to attend the game. It's like going to Notre Dame bowl game. Until the dawgs win two in a row I'm taking Florida every year.

11/3 Troy

Seriously? Troy may be making the most bold statement to join the SEC I've ever seen. Memphis should take note. This sound like a classic Richt betting game. Dawgs favored by 31 and win by 18 because they come out lackluster. Like the UAB games from a few years ago.

11/10 Auburn

I don't care how many times it happens, I don't really buy into this being favored on the road in this series. Auburn was very fortunate and played a hell of game to come out of Athens with the victory in 2005. What a glorious day it was. Hopefully I won't experience anything like my night in 2003. Hopefully it's a close fought game and Auburn pulls it out in the final drive. But I still have a bad feeling about this.

11/17 Kentucky

Another revenge game for Georgia. The defense will be experienced and ready to go by this time of the season. It's entirely possible that the Wildcats are beaten up and have lost all steam. Once again, Mark Richt doesn't lose a game like this two years in a row.

11/24 at Georgia Tech

I'll believe a Tech victory when I see it. However the Reggie Ball addition by subtraction theory is more than a little intriguing. The dawgs continue their Peach State dominance.

Record: 9-3 SEC: 5-3

Links

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SEC Schedule a Day: Florida

I'm going to oversimplify things a bit. I've been convinced that the keys to a good college team are an experienced quarterback and great offensive and defensive lines. Other things go into it like coaching and special teams, but really those are three things that it's difficult to overcome. Well Florida's got one of out three this year (offensive line). What makes things difficult though is the Gators pelthora of skill players.

9/1 Western Kentucky

Good opportunity to sort some things out in the running game. Unfortunately this provides only slight more stress than a scrimmage for the defense. But at least they'll get their jitters out in route to a lop sided victory. Although, it should be a crime to want to beat this handsome devil

9/8 Troy

I like that Troy just keeps trucking along and picking up paychecks. At some point they could become a decent midmajor. Otherwise, this is week two of preparation for the Tennessee game.

9/15 Tennessee

Because this game is in Gainesville I think it can go either way. But because of matchups I going with the Vols. I think the key to beating UT this year is to line up and run it right at them. That's just not something I have seen from Florida other than Tebow running QB draws up the middle. Defensively I think it's a little early in the season for the green Gator defense to hand this type of attack. Though I'd feel a lot better about picking the Vols if Lamarcus Coker was definitely playing in this game.

9/22 at Ole Miss

This is definitely the type of game that Florida could overlook. The Rebels are sandwiched in between bouts against Auburn and Tennessee. And I think Ben Jarvus Green Ellis and the boys could rack up some yards in the game. I just don't think that the back seven for Ole Miss has enough athleticism to keep up with the Percy Harvin's and Andre Caldwell's of the world.

9/29 Auburn

I see Auburn having what it takes to beat the Gators again. And really...Steve Spurrier is to blame. When Tuberville took over at Auburn he stated ad nauseum for a few years that we didn't have the talent level on defense to keep up with Florida. Reverting to Spurriers's recruiting philosophy on defense (recruit H.S. LBs to play DE, Safeties to play LB etc) and his hey day in Miami...Tuberville focused almost solely on being lightning fast on defense. As a result, Auburn has the personel defense to keep up with the talented Gator offensive onslaught. On the other side of the ball I believe Auburn will be able to pound the ball and then play action pass they way to hopefully 20+ points.

10/6 at LSU

Well this an unpleasant 4 game stretch for Florida. At least they get UT and Auburn at home. LSU is loaded plain and simple. If LSU can get past VaTech they should 5-0 at this point and the game is already scheduled for 8pm. Which means that Baton Rouge is going to be like a 8 mile wide grease fire. Florida's offense vs. the Tiger's D should be a draw. The advantage here should be the Bayou Bengal offense verse the talented but young Gator defense. And of course the home field advantage. I think Florida will find that it's harder to beat LSU without Jamarcus Russell coughing up the ball 4-5 times a game.

9/20 at Kentucky

Sure Kentucky has their most talented team in a decade, but they'd be better served if Florida wins in Baton Rouge the week before. The Wildcats just don't have the athletic ability on defense to keep up with the Gators. Plus Tebow should be a man on a mission at this point of the season.

9/37 World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party

I'm hard pressed to come up with a reason to pick UGA in this game other than the "their bound to win at some point" argument. If the Dawg receivers really come on strong I guess Stafford could turn this game into a shootout. I understand the desire to appease UGA boosters from South Georgia, but having this game in Jacksonville is killing the program. What I would do is home and home and then two straight years in Jacksonville. That way everybody gets the opportunity to experience the atmosphere in Jacksonville as well as not creat a lopsided schedule (home, Jacksonvile, home, jacksonville). And finally in game where UGA or Florida has the cocktail party at home, they can schedule a fun non-conference away game. Just my thoughts. Anyway, Florida wins.

11/3 Vanderbilt

I understand the reserved hype surrounding the Commodores this year, and I remember their last trip to the swamp, but I"m not going to go on record in the preseason picking Vandy in this game. They don't have more talent, they don't have a better coach, and they are playing on the road. If this is an early game it could be trouble (as JP/LF games against UK/Vandy always strangely seem to be Florida).

11/10 at South Carolina

Spurrier is like really good. I expect the crowd to be slightly above frenzied and slightly below maniacal. I'm going out on a limb and saying this will be a night ESPN game. And thus I'm giving the edge to the Gamecocks. (by the way, you're lucky you don't have to pay for a detailed breakdown like that)

(EDIT): Sooo yeah. I've changed my mind and I'm taking the Gators in this one.

11/17 Florida Atlantic

It's like early jump on bowl practice

11/24 Florida State

Florida State has to show me something before I start picking them in games like this. Without a thorough study of their complete roster I kinda lead to believe that 2008 will actually be their comeback year. Four straight wins for the Gators would help continue their recruiting dominance in the state. If FSU doesn't have a good football team what do they toot their horn about?

Record: 10-2 SEC Record: 6-2

It'll take a hell of a coaching job bu 6-2 seems possible in the SEC.

Links

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assombrero?

I have arrived. Honestly, all of these kind words are making me blush. For those of you who don't habla espanol I believe that means "The Nino"...either that or ass hat.

A study in bama failure

I feel like I've been overly nice in regards to bama this week. And sadly it continues... Outside the Lines has an excellent break down of a play from the bama/arky game last year. I really can't overstate how ridiculous that game was. But the diagram is very informative and the type of thing I would love to see more of on the net. The only thing it's missing is video.



(HT: Best of the SEC Blogs)

SEC Schedule a Day: Auburn

In all honesty, the 2006 Auburn Tigers used smoke and mirrors to finish 11-2. Injuries at several positions rendered the offense utterly useless. Luckily we had a favorable schedule. This year the Tigers look to have more talent and a much tougher schedule. The key for Auburn will be to bounce back from last year's dismal offensive performance. Brandon Cox is healthy again, a young crop of receivers has hopefully matured, and the offensive line has more depth than I can remember under Tuberville. The running backs? Well this is Auburn and Tommy Tuberville. We're stacked with talent. The question will be if someone steps up and demands to get a majority of the carries or if it will be a committee situation.

9/1 Kansas State

For some reason this game is getting very little buzz. I guess KSU's last couple of years have taken them off the radar. However they are a team on the rise again under the direction of Ron Prince. I believe the Cats are still undergoing a talent overhaul and are lacking at several positions. I'd imagine this to be a close game early on with the Auburn offense being stymied. However I expect a third quarter onslaught to pull the home team ahead. I'm thinking 7-14 point victory based on talent level, experience, and home field.

9/8 South Florida

Talk about a program on the rise. I think the average football fan just lumps USF in withe UCF, FIU, FAU, etc and forgets they are in the Big East now. This is a talented program that takes risks on kids that Miami, FSU, and Florida shy away from. Sophomore QB Matt Grothe looks like a Jay Cutler type playmaker. And this is a team that finished out their season by winning at West Virginia. I think Auburn prevails by manning up and winning this game on the ground. Because of the Bulls talented secondary, Auburn best chances of moving the ball are with the arsenal of Brad Lester, Mario Fannin, and Ben Tate. Defensively the onus will be on the defensive line to apply pressure without relying on the blitz. And anytime you become one dimensional and let Quentin Groves pin his ears back and attack the QB.... mayhem happens. I take Auburn in another fairly close game.

9/15 Mississippi State

It really has become a treat to have MSU on the schedule every year. Kinda of like a really helpful scrimmage. I swear this game is on Jefferson Pilot/Lincoln Financial every year now. It's a low pressure way to start your day. Just watch a little physical domination, go grab lunch, then start watching competitive football. I would hope that Auburn would use the 1st quarter to work on the passing attack and then pound the bulldogs for the rest of the game.

9/22 New Mexico State

The not so triumphant return of Hal Mumme and Woody Widenhofer to Jordan Hare. By all accounts the Aggies have a pass happy and exciting offense that can put up some numbers. Their defense however is more than pleased to let you waltz by them on your way to the endzone. The KSU, USF, and this game should give the Tiger secondary plenty of practice. Something we'll need later in the season. Auburn wins big time.

9/29 at Florida

Auburn was able to win last year based on time of possession, defensive greatness, special teams, and a great crowd/av system. This year? I don't see the game being as hard. Florida is in for a rough year. There is just so much talent to replace on the defense and the Gators still don't have a running back. The key to beating Auburn this year will be to throw out a fire breathing defense at them. I don't see Florida bringing that defense. The Gators will strike on 3-4 big plays but it won't be enough.

10/6 Vanderbilt

Trap game, Trap game, Trap Game. Coming off a win at Gainesville, 5-0 record, probably a top 10 ranking, a road trip at Arkansas a week later, and the lack of fear that Vandy puts in a team. This is a dangerous game. One of those LF broadcast games that the fans/players never show up for. I say after an impressive offensive performance by the 'Dores, Auburn wins by a field goal. Not an enjoyable Saturday.

10/13 at Arkansas

So Arkansas has consistently been a problem from Tommy Tuberville. And I think a lot of it has to do with style of play. Auburn has always relied on the run offensively and stopping the run has always been a team trait for the 'backs (most likely b/c it's all they see in practice). From a defensive stand point Tubs has always favored speed over size on defense. In Arkansas' more talented years they've been able to run on Auburn at will (see last year). Now here's the difference. When Auburn has any semblance of a passing attack they win and usually by a few scores. Despite the conservative nature of Razorback attack, they were able to win last year based on several big plays. I don't see that happening two years in a row. And with the decline of the Arky defense I see Auburn pulling out an important road victory.

10/20 at LSU

What a delightful 4 game stretch. At UF, Vandy, at Arkansas, at LSU. What's the matter? We could schedule the Dallas Cowboys for the Vandy weekend? I think LSU has some question marks at QB and RB which are kinda two important positions. But that's also the only places I see them having questions other than OC. Either way, their defense is going to be nasty and at some point Matt Flynn and Keiland William will get going. I just don't see Auburn pulling out a victory in what will be a night game in Death Valley. Which should make for a fun trip back to New Orleans for me that night. The last two night games I've attended in Baton Rouge have been a little rocky. 2001 was like attending a Nazi rally while wearing a gigantic yarmulke. In 2003 an LSU fan sitting next to me in the Auburn upper deck section dropped the ole "looks like our n*ggers are beating your n*ggers" line. Shouldn't it be legal to punch anyone who says that?

Anyway, I'm going to Baton Rouge, and I really hope Auburn pulls out a "w" and I will cherish it oh so much. But I don't see it happening. The Bayou Bengals are loaded. Maybe Les Miles will figure out a way to screw things up.

10/27 Ole Miss

Auburn will be beat up and low on spirits. Ole Miss will be low on football ability. Auburn will need to win the game through the air. On offense Ole Miss should just kneel 3 times and then punt because they seemingly would be shocked to find out that you can complete a forward pass. Are Orgeron's 15 minutes up yet?

11/3 Tennessee Tech

Since we've scheduled our off weekend for the week before our last game, this is the only bit of rest Auburn will get all year. Hoorah! Chances of me attending this game are slim to none. And slim just left town. Youngsters get a jump start on settling the depth chart next spring.

11/10 at Georgia

The final of our tough 4 SEC road games. I expect UGA to struggle early in the year but start putting the pieces together at the end of the season again. Unless the injuries on their offensive line just continue. The defense should be stronger, at some point UGA will finally figure out how to run the ball I would think. I just have a bad feeling about this game. Plus on Monday I stated my theory that Saban/Muschamp have to beat Richt before I will pick them. Oh so sadly, I'm going to have to take the dawgs in this one. I really wish that wasn't the case.

11/24 Iron Bowl

Six years in a row sure does sound sweet. I can totally see a depleted bama defense walking in Jordan Hare and just having a miserable day. I can also see the Tide offense throwing up some futile points in the passing game. I can not see a scenario other than Brandon Cox missing the game leading to a tide victory. Auburn by 14 and hopefully more.

Record: 10-2 SEC: 6-2

Quarterback may be an issue but I see 2008 as the year Auburn makes it over the hump again and plays for the SEC crown. But consecutive seasons of 13-0, 9-3, 11-2, and 10-2 (who knows about a bowl game) is something to take notice of. Brandon Cox will be better than anyone outside of the Auburn faithful is giving him credit for. The running back triumvirate will be talented and create some fireworks. Tray Blackmon will be a name that every football fan will know. And hopefully, just maybe, we keep the coaching staff together for one more big run in 2008.

Links:

Featured Blog: The Auburner

Featured Post: Interview with Al Borges

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Best of the SEC Blogs

Just found out about the Best of the SEC Blogs site. They cull through all the SEC blogs and highlight the best stories for you each day. What a novel idea. If nothing else, the blog roll down the left hand side of the site should help you find some blogs for your favorite team.

SEC Schedule a Day: Arkansas

Well I wasn't happy with my bama post yesterday. Hopefully these will get more informative and humorous as we go. And well...Arkansas is leaving me a ton to work with. What a crazy off season. It's like they are holding their program together with duct tape. One of two things can happen, the whole team can unite and pull of an Auburn 2004 scenario, or they can go to the crapper. I say they go to the crapper.

Casey Dick is like Matt Jones without athletic ability. Or more closely, Casey Dick is like they decided to line me up at qb. How the hell Houston Nutt didn't get Kodi Burns (war eagle Kodi) to come in and immediately start for the Razorbacks is amazing. His biggest mistake of the offseason may have been not getting Mustain and Galzahn out the door fast enough. It looks like Burns will rock a clipboard this year and then take the reigns for Auburn next year. Good job HDN.

9/1 Troy

Both of my grand parents graduated from Troy State back when it was primarily a school for teacher's. So I've always rooted for them in these type of games. The presence of former Auburn coaches/players in the program has never hurt either. And their new pass whacky offense is entertaining as well. But let's be honest, though Troy has made some valiant efforts and surprising wins in past years, this game is about one thing. Darren McFadden announcing his presence with authority. I'd expect him to roll of somewhere between 180-220 yards rushing and maybe 3 td's.

9/15 at bama

Very peculiar off week. Definitely would have tried to play someone on 9/8 instead of the North Texas, Chattanooga, or FIU games later in the year. Someone needs to wake up Frank Broyles.

Unlike bama/arky games of years past I fully expect this to be a shootout. The Razorback defense is young and inexperienced for the most part. 3 senior starters. By the way, how the hell is Michael Grant a senior? Seems like it's only been a couple years since the UGA Admissions Board made him pull the old switcheroo. The Tide don't have the meat on defense to slow down McFadden, Jones, and Hillis. To my knowledge Arkansas won't have the tools to stop what I think will be a pretty good bama passing attack. Two weak defenses and I think bama will have the less one dimensional offense so I'm giving them the edge. McFadden takes Heisman hit by dropping game, but still puts up big numbers.

(edit: Arkansas wins)

9/22 Kentucky

If this game was in Lexington, it'd be intriguing. However I don't see the Cats rolling out of Fayetteville with a win. Though improved on offense, they don't half of what it will take to slow down Arky. Something like 35-21 for the Hogs.

9/29 North Texas

Ironically North Texas used to have guys like Patrick Cobbs racking up tremendous rushing totals on his way to become the nation's leading rusher. McFadden and the boys will put in a full days work before half and call it quits. Hopefully they let Casey Dick pass non-stop in the first quarter to build some confidence.

10/6 Chattanooga

Unless Terrell Owens walks through that door... I don't see the Mocs winning the game. Keep the D-Train rolling.

8/13 Auburn

After the early stumble verse bama and the subsequent wins over the cream puffs of the schedule the Hog bandwagon will have picked up some more steam. Arkansas has often been a thorn in the side of the Tigers since Tommy Tuberville (arkansas native) has been coach. And it's all about style of play. Arkansas will get some yards offensively, but it won't be like last year. Tigers take home the victory. (more tomorrow)

8/20 at Ole Miss

I incorrectly thought this would be a close game last year. But Felix Jones returned the opening kick and that was pretty much all she wrote. Now would be a good time to mention how good the Razorback defense was last year. Obviously McFadden, Jones, Mustain, and Malzahn received much of the media attention. But the defense was stout last year. But they've lost 4 integral pieces of that defense this year so I wouldn't expect similar results. But Ole Miss is just a team in a tailspin right now. They can't do anything right. Hogs take home the victory.

8/27 Florida International

So avoid injuries. Don't get a gigantic brawl that is the focus of ESPN for a week. Get a big enough lead to rest your starters. Sounds easy enough. Just don't bring it up around Miami.

11/3 South Carolina

This is a very very intriguing clash of offensive philosophies. Although I don't know if you can really call Houston Nutt's offense a philosophy as much as it is an attitude. I think USC continues their improvement this year. But I'm not sure I trust them on the road. This game falls a week after South Carolina's trip to Knoxville. Not an easy row to hoe. I like the Hogs in what could be an upset at this point in the year. So yes... I'll say it... Dick and Nutt beat the Cocks.

11/10 at Tennessee

Nope. Just don't see it. Save the occasional victory at Auburn, Arkansas has not traditionally been a very good road team. The Vols defense should be in a groove by this point in the year and I'd expect Erik Ainge to pick the Hog defense apart.

11/17 Mississippi State

It's always good to have old MSU to kick around. Helps the spirits a little bit. Also a good chance for Nutt to address the lynch mob in Fayetteville calling for his departure. Though to be fair, not a bad season.

11/24 at LSU

There must be literally 5-10 kids in all of Louisiana and Arkansas hoping to grow up one day and win the prized Golden Boot Trophy. This will probably be the best defense Arkansas faces all year. Which is usually not a good situation for a team that has zero passing game other than a fade route. I would also assume that their is too much on the line for the Tigers to drop this game at home.

Record: 9-3 SEC: 5-3

All in all not a bad year for the Razorbacks. The wheels don't completely fall off but really it's about the best they can hope for. They had talent last year, but they also got extremely fortunate. The blessing of the dreaded Lincoln Financial telecast 11:30 start at Auburn which always helps. Then the fortune of facing a UT team missing Erik Ainge. And the absolute craziness that was the bama game.

Links:

Featured Arkansas Blog: The Hog Blogger

Featured Post: More Crap from the Broyles Center: Reaction to last week's letter from a former player's father to air some dirty laundry. Which brings up the point...why does no one mention steroids when talking about college football? Everyone constantly accuses other teams of illegal recruiting but your rarely he complaints about players being on the juice.

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Other Schedule Predictions: bama

SEC Schedule a Day: University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa

We're attacking this in alphabetical order which means we start with the Tide. This season is about one thing for bama.... Saban. After a strange and drawn coaching search the power brokers in Tuscaloosa ended up with one of their top choices by luring Nick back from the NFL to the SEC. The fans currently have set their expectations at a ridiculous level and it'll be a struggle for ole Nick to maintain in good graces while he waits on insurge of talent from new recruits. There's a whole new coaching staff and questions all over the place. But I'll try my best.

9/1 vs. Western Carolina

Typical easy opener. Throw it around some in the first half, build up a lead, and then pound away with the running game. Try to win the game soundly and get experience for some youngsters without providing too much film for your next opponent. It'll be a bland game plan but you'll still get your first glance of the new 3-4 defense and Major Applewhite's new offense. The way bama will be passing the ball this year it'll almost be like if Mike Price never paid a stripper to come back to his hotel room on the university's credit card.

9/8 at Vanderbilt

You might remember bama pulling out a 13-10 victory over the Commodores last year. Well things don't get any easier this year. It is by no means daunting to play in a 41,000 seat Vanderbilt Stadium filled with 20,000 crimson clad fans. But it's not playing at home either. There is a very very good chance that Vandy could win this game and generate some buzz for the program. I fully expect it to be an offensive shootout. But I also see bama pulling out one of those last minute victories. I just don't think the Vandy defense is going to be stout enough to completely shut down the Tide rushing attack. If you can make bama one dimensional this year (which would seemingly be possible) you have a good chance to beat them.

9/15 vs. Arkansas

The first big test for the new 3-4 alignment. Arkansas is going to run, run, run this year. Blitzing linebackers will not be as affective against the corn-fed offensive linemen the Razorbacks are trotting out on the field. Once again, I expect a shootout. I see bama being able to throw up and down the field and Arkansas chewing up yardage, time, and points on the ground. Home field advantage is at a premium and possibly a late Casey Dick interception seals the game. I'm giving this one to the Tide.

(edit: Arkansas wins)

9/22 vs. Georgia

I'm not really sold on the Dawgs this year... but until I see otherwise I'm never picking against Richt when planing Saban/Muschamp. That game in 2004 against LSU when Richt moved the wide receivers as far out to the line as he could and forcing the safeties to choose between playing way outside or helping in the middle was brilliant. Completely neuters the blitz. Plus I can't see bama coming out of this stretch 4-0. This should be the third week in a row of close games and I think it'll be too much.

9/29 at FSU (Jacksonville)

Which team returns to glory? I like FSU. They've obviously been lacking on the offensive line and play calling departments for the last few years. But at least the play calling department should be taken care of. I don't think Jimbo Fisher is a genius by any means, but given a strong armed QB and talented WRs, he can make some things happen. But seriously, the real story here is FSU and bama fans being let loose on Jacksonville. I'm not one to throw stones, but who knew you could have a more redneck version of the Cocktail Party. I'm not talking about alumni either. I'm talking about the buying their team shirt at Walmart and roll tide and seminole tattoo wearing fans.

10/6 vs Houston

I don't really keep up with them much but supposedly Houston still has one of those wacky offensive juggernaut teams. So technically they might be dangerous. But Nick Saban doesn't have time for that shit. bama wins.

8/13 at Ole Miss

By the way, pretty decent schedule set up for the tide this year. Two tough road games (one at a "neutral site") and everything else at home. Until I see something else, Ole Miss will have a good run defense and nothing else. The Rebs have lost the last two games against bama by a field goal. But at this point of the season, the playbooks are fully installed, the underclassmen are experienced, and Saban doesn't lose to Orgeron.

8/20 vs Tennessee

Vols. Big time. Frankly, I just don't think bama has the talent level they need to have to compete against upper echelon SEC teams. They could certainly be there by 2009, but right now I don't see it. And even though UT has taken a step back and is playing on the road. I just think they're too much. The Tide just don't have that nasty defense to keep them in games this year.

11/3 vs LSU

Don't be fooled by the hype, LSU has some offensive question marks this year. But they shouldn't affect this game. QB play should be solidified by this point of the year and I don't think the running game will be an issue. I frankly don't see how bama can score more than 10 points in this game. I fully expect ESPN to cover this game to the point of nausea.

11/10 at Mississippi State

After the embarrassing loss last year at home, I don't see any way bama can afford to lose this game. They may be beaten up at this point in the year but they have to figure some way to pull out a win.

11/17 vs Lousiana Monroe

I don't even want to talk about this game. The Iron Bowl should be this week. But because bama whined about playing LSU and Auburn back to back, and the SEC decided to force every team to play the week before the SEC championship, we now have the Iron Bowl on the weekend following Thanksgiving. Bullshit.

11/24 AT AUBURN

A turkey filled Jman wobbles down to the plains for the now annual tradition of beating bama. It's great to win 5 in a row, but I'd really like to see an absolute blow out at some point. The Tide's only hope in this game is that Auburn's secondary suffers a rash of injuries over the course of the season. That's really the only potential advantage I see for bama. Throw incessantly and hope that Quentin Groves doesn't actually kill John Parker Wilson on the field.

Record: 6-6 SEC: 3-5

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I'm back

I feel like I should bring it. But not today. Despite my better judgement, starting on Monday, I'm going to bring back the old SEC Schedule a Day from last year. Which means I have a lot of studying to do. Anybody know if anything interesting has happened with Arkansas during the offseason?