The Calm Before The Storm: College Football Top 10 Notes & Predictions
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Top Ten
1. Alabama (9-0):
Alabama standout freshman RB T.J. Yeldon capped off a thrilling 21-17 victory over LSU to solidify the SEC and the defense once again held in check what was suppose to be a devastating running attack. Beating LSU was a huge step and if the Tide continues their domination it is a guarantee that they will be playing for the crystal football come the New Year. Next up, a date with outstanding QB Johnny Manziel and a talented Texas A&M squad back at Bryant-Denny stadium.
Texas A&M 14 @ Alabama 28
2. Oregon (9-0):
Oregon was literally unstoppable against a non-existent Trojans defense as RB Kejon Barner racked off 341 YDS and 5 TDs to set a new single game record in the Coliseum. This week the Ducks visit a demoralized Cal team and things will get ugly fast, however don’t expect Cal to just lay down. Historically, this game has always been very close and the last two times the Ducks visited Berkeley the offense struggled to put up massive amounts of points. Realistically, however if the Ducks offense remains focused behind the leadership of freshman QB Marcus Mariota and continues to run the ball with the tempo they have this season, the Ducks will have no problem running Cal out of their seats.
Oregon 65 @ Cal 14
3. Kansas State (9-0):
Kansas State was victorious over a very solid Oklahoma State team, with a balanced performance by Heisman front-runner Collin Klein. As the target on KSU’s back grows each week, TCU won’t be an easy game as the Horn Frogs spirits are high after a stunning 2-point conversion overtime victory against West Virginia. Although, this team has been absolutely outstanding and many feel that they should be ahead of Oregon due to a tough Big 12 schedule, do not predict easy roll over victories in the coming weeks, as contests versus Baylor and #17 Texas will provide huge challenges.
Kansas State 28 @ TCU 31
4. Notre Dame (9-0):
Notre Dame beat what I thought was an absolutely horrible Pittsburg team by a mere hair (The Irish defense gave up 172 yards rushing to Ray Graham and the offense sputtered) and this should be a cause for worry. Despite, Notre Dame’s outstanding performance to this point, this team will loose one of their final three games; most likely to a feisty Trojans team in Los Angeles at the end of the season. Additionally, this weekend at Boston College should be a dogfight as the Golden Eagles have had a knack for tripping up overrated Irish squads in the past.
Notre Dame 28 @ Boston College 24
5. Ohio State (10-0):
Ohio State has not been given the attention they deserve in 2012 because of all the devastating issues and a bowl ban. However, despite the disappointment, players have acclimated well to a new system and this team is as talented and well coached as any in the country. Coach Urban Meyer has done a great job getting the program back on track after the offseason chaos and has helped turn QB Braxton Miller into a star. Expect 2013, to be the year Ohio State is officially back on the map as a powerhouse, but first off they must play spoiler this season.
Bye Week: Next Game @ Wisconsin 11/17
6. Georgia (8-1):
Beating a very talented Florida team at home was just what the Bulldogs ordered to get back on track, to win the SEC East and head to the conference title game. If QB Aaron Murray can follow up a 384 Yard, 4 TD performance with another outstanding game and the defense can continue to play hungry, Georgia will end the season in their best situation in recent years. Take away a blow out loss to an overrated South Carolina team, this team would have championship run written all over themselves.
Georgia 24 @ Auburn 14
7. Florida (8-1)
Florida has risen above off-season expectations and come to play in 2012. Although QB Jeff Driskel, has proved to be a dual threat star, the Gators offense needs improvement and has a long way to go under the rising youngster. With solid victories over Tennessee, LSU, South Carolina and their only trip up over a talented Georgia team, things are looking up in Gainesville, especially for the future. This week a contest against Vanderbilt at home is yet another step the Gators must take, however the loss to Georgia will most likely come back to haunt them.
Vanderbilt 17 @ Florida 28
8. Florida State (8-1):
Despite a one-point loss to North Carolina State and the departure of outstanding RB Chris Thompson with a season ending ACL injury, the Seminoles have had an outstanding season behind athletic QB E.J. Manuels turn around in 2012. At this point FSU has control of the ACC Atlantic division, however contests against Virginia Tech and Maryland are vital to complete a great season. Additionally, a matchup against Florida at home, should tell fans a lot, as Gators will be the most athletic team they have faced all season.
Florida State 35 @ Virginia Tech 13
9. LSU (7-2):
The Tigers played better than expected against familiar rival Alabama but lost, as the defense failed to make a crucial big stop at the end. The bottom line is that despite being eliminated from winning a Southeastern Conference championship there is plenty to play for and Les Miles is too proud to allow his players to slack off. Saturday, a talented Mississippi State team comes to town, marking a great opportunity to get back on track. Besides the obvious negative and a lackluster 2012 season in Baton Rouge , LSU will continue to grow as QB Zack Mettenberger improves in the passing attack and the defense reloads with new talent this coming off-season.
Mississippi State 10 @ LSU 21
10. Clemson (8-1):
Probably the most exciting team to watch in the country-given all of the young talent on offense that is putting together an average of 42.7 points a game. Take away a close loss to FSU this team would most likely be in the National championship hunt, however the defense has proven to be the weak chain in the link. Saturday marks yet another must win situation as Clemson looks to capture their second straight conference title. Although, Maryland has had its fair share of issues especially at QB look for the a team with nothing to loose, to come out strong.
Clemson 35 @ Maryland 7
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