They're Playing Football!

We got some pretty good games this weekend, obviously highlighted by the #1 vs. #2 showdown in the SEC title game. We've been waiting a number of weeks to see which one of these teams is best. America will take Tebow. I'll take the Tide.

#1 Florida vs. #2 Alabama
Defense will certainly rule the roost in this one. SEC football is predicated on playing sound defensive football and these two teams have two of the best defenses in the nation with Mount Cody playing in red and Brandon Spikes & Co. in blue.

I know Urban Meyer can coach a hell of a game but Florida has been too vanilla on offense this year for my taste. They've relied on Tebow and won with stifling defense. I'm not going to say the Gators are predicatble but I like Bama will see them coming.

Alabama is certainly predictable with the offense relying on the strong running of Mark Ingram but I have been impressed with Greg McElroy's ability to lead Bama to victory when Ingram is slowed. I like Alabama to win a close game on the strength of a gutsy performance by McElroy.

#3 Texas vs. #24 Nebraska
When I look at the statistical breakdown there is little to be excited about. Nebraska excels defensively but it seems Texas is slightly better statistically on that side of the ball.

But Nebraska can play conservative and not make mistakes. Their model of play against Oklahoma will have to be used again but Nebraska is going to have to get a turnover or two deep in Texas territory and will likely need a defensive touchdown. A special teams touchdown wouldn't hurt either. Luckily for the Huskers, they have been great at getting TDs on defensive and special teams.

Colt McCoy had an unbelievable game against A&M but Nebraska isn't going to let him get loose and run like the Aggies did. Nebraska will have disguise its blitzes well and the defensive backs are going to have to play the game of their lives against Shipley.

Its going to be an uphill battle but upsets aren't unheard of in games like these. I seem to remember one that still sticks in my craw.



I still shudder when I see that.

#5 Cincinatti at #15 Pittsburgh
The Bearcats will have a lot of pressure on them to perform in this game. The word after the BCS ratings is that if Cincy can roll against the Panthers then the Bearcats could vault ahead of TCU. That might be very important if Texas happens to lose to Nebraska. Because of the added pressure and the loss Pitt suffered to West Virginia last week I like Pitt to come through and get the upset here. Plus, the Brian Kelly to Notre Dame rumors will not help this week.

The Civil War - #18 Oregon State at #8 Oregon
This is easily one of the most underrated rivalries in college football. Oregon's recent ascent to college football fame will help it get the respect it deserves. Autzen Stadium allows for a great home field advantage as its is the loudest stadium in the Pac 10. I like the Beavers to keep this one close with the help of the Rogers brothers but Oregon and Jeremiah Masoli will get the win.