Georgia Bulldogs

January 3, 2010

College Football Bowl Preview: Orange Bowl

Filed under: ACC, ACC Coastal, Adam Robinson, Adrian Clayborn, BCS, Big 10, Brad Jefferson, Clemson Tigers, College, Demaryius Thomas, Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, Derrick Morgan, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Iowa Hawkeyes, Jonathon Dwyer, Josh Nesbitt, Marvin McNutt, Morgan Burnett, NCAA, National Championship, Navy, Northwestern Wildcats, Ohio State, Orange Bowl, Outback Bowl, Pat Angerer, Paul Johnson, Ricky Stanzi, South Carolina, Sports, Tyler Sash, Virginia Tech — Tags: ACC, ACC Coastal, Adam Robinson, Adrian Clayborn, BCS, Big 10, Brad Jefferson, Clemson Tigers, College Football, Demaryius Thomas, Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, Derrick Morgan, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Iowa Hawkeyes, Jonathon Dwyer, Josh Nesbitt, Marvin McNutt, Morgan Burnett, National Championship, Navy Midshipmen, NCAA, Northwestern Wildcats, Ohio State Buckeyes, Orange Bowl, Outback Bowl, Pat Angerer, Paul Johnson, Ricky Stanzi, South Carolina Gamecocks, Sportmeisters, Sports, Tyler Sash, Virginia Tech Hokies — SportmeisterRyan @ 11:17 am

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicked off December 19^th, with 34 games being played in a three week span.

The Sportmeisters are previewing each of the bowl games, and providing our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Orange Bowl, January 5th, 8:00 PM, Miami, FL

No. 9 Georgia Tech (11-2) vs. No. 10 Iowa (10-2)

About Georgia Tech: The Yellow Jackets caught fire this season, winning ten of their first eleven, including a huge ACC Coastal showdown against Virginia Tech. They slipped up, losing their rivalry game to Georgia, but bounced back in the ACC Championship, downing Clemson for the second time this season to clinch the ACC’s BCS automatic berth.

Is there any doubt what Georgia Tech is good at? Behind former Navy Coach Paul Johnson, the Yellow Jackets reeled off the second best rushing attack of 2009 (307.15 yards per game). Despite opponents knowing their not going to pass (135.54 yards per game), they can’t stop the triple option. The misdirectional rushing attack is directly responsible for Georgia Tech being 11^th in total offense (442.69 yards per game) and 12^th in scoring offense (35.31 points per game). The amazing rushing attack starts with RB Jonathon Dwyer, who recorded 1346 yards and 14 touchdowns as the primary option on the ground. QB Josh Nesbitt, the centerpiece of the offense, picked up 991 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground, and when he did throw, he contributed 1689 yards and ten touchdowns. WR Demaryius Thomas has over 1,000 yards in his own right, catching 46 balls for 1154 receiving yards and eight touchdowns.

For all the good the offense has done, the defense is a little more down to earth. They give up a lot of yards (357 per game) and a good deal of points (24.85 a game), making a good number of their games shootouts. Junior LB Brad Jefferson is one of the leaders, with 90 tackles (eight for loss). Senior DE Derrick Morgan has more sacks (12.5) than the rest of his team (10.5), to go along with his 52 tackles (18 for loss). Junior CB Morgan Burnett contributed 77 tackles and four interceptions. Georgia Tech can hold a team when they want to, but more often than not, it’s an offensive showcase.

About Iowa: The Hawkeyes were a hot team to start the season, winning nine in a row to develop some legitimate national championship talk. That, and the Big Ten title, all went away as Iowa stumbled to the finish line, losing two of their final three, first to Northwestern and then to Ohio State. They did grab an At-Large bid to allow them a spot in a BCS Bowl.

Iowa is not a good offensive program, ranking 103^rd in the run (109.42 yards per game), and 93^rd overall (330.75 yards per game). Their lone bright spot is QB Ricky Stanzi, who should be close to 100% after missing two games with injury. He finished with 2186 yards and 15 touchdowns, but also 14 interceptions. Top WR targets Derrell Johnson-Koulianos and Marvin McNutt combined for 1,340 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Freshman RB Adam Robinson led the ground game with 775 yards and five touchdowns.

When the offense sputters, the defense needs to step up. They do so, ranking 11^th in total defense (286.67 yards per game), 10^th in points allowed (15.50 per game), and eighth in passing defense (164.67 yards per game). Senior LB Pat Angerer leads the team with 135 tackles (four for loss), a sack, and an interception. Junior DL Adrian Clayborn added 61 tackles (18 for loss) and 9.5 sacks. Sophomore DB Tyler Sash contributed 84 tackles (5.5 for loss), and six interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. The Hawkeye’s offense isn’t always at the top of it’s game, but the defense is usually prepared to step up in need.

The Matchup: Georgia Tech is 22-15 in bowl games. They have been to a bowl for 13 straight seasons, but are currently mired in a four game losing streak.

Iowa is 12-10-1 in it’s bowl history. They are coming off a win in the 2008 Outback Bowl against South Carolina 31-10.

Obviously, the big story is the defense of Iowa versus the offense of Georgia Tech. With Angerer and Clayborn in the middle, this is where the option is a great play. Nesbitt and Dwyer will no doubt look to the middle, but if they continually get stuffed, they can bounce to the outside, forcing Iowa to open up it’s coverage. This should open the middle up.

At the same time, unlike most other teams, Iowa has had plenty of time to prepare for the triple-option. If the run can get stuffed, GT will have to throw, and look for the Hawkeyes to feast on Nesbitt’s passing ability.

Iowa will get Ricky Stanzi back, but he makes mistakes, and if Morgan can get some pressure on him, a turnover or two will occur. If Stanzi has enough time, McNutt and Johnson-Koulianos will wreck havoc on the secondary.

The Prediction: Iowa prepares well for the triple-option, and beats Georgia Tech 27-21.

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December 30, 2009

College Football Bowl Preview: Cotton Bowl

Filed under: Big 12, Big 12 South, Brandon Bolden, College, Cotton Bowl, Dexter McCluster, Dez Bryant, Donald Booker, Egg Bowl, Emmanuel Stephens, FBS, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Holiday Bowl, Houston, Jevan Snead, Keith Toston, Kendall Hunter, Mississippi Rebels, Mississippi State, NCAA, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Patrick Lavine, Patrick Trahan, SEC, Shay Hodge, Sports, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech, Zac Robinson — Tags: Big 12, Big 12 South, Brandon Bolden, College Football, Cotton Bowl, Dexter McCluster, Dez Bryant, Donald Booker, Egg Bowl, Emmanuel Stephens, FBS, Georgia Bulldogs, Holiday Bowl, Houston, Jevan Snead, Keith Toston, Kendall Hunter, Mississippi Rebels, Mississippi State, NCAA, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Patrick Lavine, Patrick Trahan, SEC, Shay Hodge, Sports, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, Zac Robinson — SportmeisterRyan @ 12:19 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 34 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Cotton Bowl, January 2nd, 2:00 PM, Arlington, TX

Mississippi (8-4) vs. No. 19 Oklahoma State (9-3)

About Mississippi: Ole Miss was the chic pick to make a run at the SEC crown this season. Two big early wins went for naught when they lost two of their next three, both conference games. They went on to win five of their next six, before succumbing in the annual Egg Bowl to rival Mississippi State.

The Rebels boast a solid offense, led by their 33^rd ranked rushing attack (182.83 yards a game). Senior Dexter McCluster is Mr. All-Everything for Ole Miss, racking up 1488 all purpose yards and ten touchdowns. If he would line up as a WR (which was often), Sophomore RB Brandon Bolden would be in the backfield, and he gained 614 yards and four touchdowns as the backup. Junior QB Jevan Snead had a decent year, throwing for 2464 yards and 20 touchdowns, but his 17 interceptions were a big reason Ole Miss was 105^th in turnover margin. His top target is Senior WR Shay Hodge, who caught 63 balls for 1023 yards and eight touchdowns.

The defense is extremely strong, especially against the pass. They held opponents to a mere 179 yards a game (16^th in NCAA FBS), and gave up only 18.58 points a game (17^th in NCAA FBS). Their ability to get pressure was a big reason for that success. They averaged 2.83 sacks a game (13^th in NCAA FBS), and averaged 7.67 tackles for loss a game (10^th in NCAA FBS). Senior DE Emmanuel Stephens led the front four, with 21 tackles (7.5 for loss) and 5.5 sacks. Senior LB Patrick Trahan was another leader, contributing 64 tackles (10 for loss), four sacks, and an interception. Ole Miss is a good team that just has bad days.

About Oklahoma State: An opening season win over then No. 13 Georgia had Cowboy fans dreaming big. Those dreams were shattered with an upset against Houston. They would reel off five wins in a row to set up a Big 12 South showdown between them and Texas. The Longhorns got the best of the Cowboys, but they bounced back to win three more in a row. They ended their season on a disappointing note, getting shut out against rival Oklahoma.

The loss of WR Dez Bryant put a damper on the team’s passing ability. They ended up relying heavier on the 24^th ranked rushing attack (191.75 yards a game). Senior RB Keith Toston stepped into the starters role when Kendall Hunter went down with an injury, and he played the Lou Gehrig role nicely. Toston rushed for 1177 yards and 11 touchdowns, while adding 256 receiving yards and a touchdown, putting a nice grip on the position. Senior QB Zac Robinson managed as best he could without top WR Bryant, combining for 2262 total yards and 19 touchdowns. The O-line is one of the best in the nation, only giving up .83 sacks a game (fifth in NCAA FBS).

Oklahoma State has one of the best rushing defenses in NCAA this season. Opponents average a mere 87.67 yards against them, good for sixth in NCAA FBS. Senior LB Donald Booker leads the team with 86 tackles (eight for loss), five sacks, and a fumble return. Senior LB Patrick Lavine is right behind him with 70 tackles (seven for loss), 2.5 sacks, and five interceptions. They were the two biggest contributors on a defense giving up 21.75 points a game (35^th in NCAA FBS). With the opponent ahead of them, Oklahoma State needs that run defense at top of their game.

The Matchup: Ole Miss is 20-12 in its’ bowl history. They have won three in a row, most recently, the 2008 Cotton Bowl against Texas Tech 47-34.

Oklahoma State is 12-7 in bowl games. This is their third straight bowl appearance, losing their most recent matchup against Oregon in the Holiday Bowl, 42-31.

The big matchup is the abilities of McCluster and Bolden against the sixth ranked run defense of Oklahoma State. Ole Miss will run a variety of formations with McCluster, lining him up as a receiver, running back, or even quarterback. This is all in the effort to slow down a defense that will stunt and blitz, looking to force Snead into throwing a few more interceptions. McCluster will get his though, win or lose, so it will be important for Oklahoma State to support that with some offensive firepower.

The best matchup of the day should be the front line of Oklahoma State vs. the defensive line of Ole Miss. Ole Miss can put pressure on and get into the backfield, while Oklahoma State gives up very few sacks a game. RB Kendall Hunter is expected to return, giving a two-headed rushing attack in him and Toston. With the pressure Ole Miss will throw, look for some screens or zone rushes to the outside, letting Toston and Hunter getting some room to run on the outside.

The Prediction: Ole Miss has one of the most amazing playmakers in McCluster, and they ride him to victory 21-17.

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December 25, 2009

College Football Bowl Preview: Independence Bowl

Filed under: A.J. Green, Christine Michael, College, Cyrus Gray, FBS, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Independence Bowl, Jerrod Johnson, Joe Cox, John Jancek, Jon Fabris, Knowshon Moreno, Mark Richt, Matt Stafford, NCAA, Rennie Curran, SEC, Sports, Texas A&M Aggies, Von Miller, Willie Martinez — Tags: A.J. Green, Christine Michael, College Football, Cyrus Gray, FBS, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Independence Bowl, Jerrod Johnson, Joe Cox, John Jancek, Jon Fabris, Knowshon Moreno, Mark Richt, Matt Stafford, NCAA, Rennie Curran, SEC, Sportmeisters, Sports, Texas A&M Aggies, Von Miller, Willie Martinez — SportmeisterRyan @ 1:38 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Independence Bowl, December 28th, 5:00 PM, Shreveport, LA

Georgia (7-5) vs. Texas A&M (6-6)

About Georgia: The Bulldogs play in arguably one of the toughest conferences, the SEC, and it showed in their performance this season. Showing signs of consistency, Georgia won three of their first four, then lost three of the next four, then won the final three of four, including an upset over then No.7 Georgia Tech. Georgia faced four teams in the top ten, and ended up going 1-3.

Offensively, Georgia was a far cry from last years squad with Matt Stafford and Knowshon Moreno. However, a returning contributor was top Sophomore WR A.J. Green, who had 751 yards and six touchdowns in only nine games played this season. Senior QB Joe Cox had the enviable task of filling in for the departed Stafford, and while his numbers were respectable (2426 yards, 22 touchdowns), he had his share of mistakes. His 16 interceptions were a big reason Georgia finished last in NCAA FBS with -1.42 turnovers a game.

Junior LB Rennie Curran led the team with 123 tackles, almost twice as much as anyone else. Georgia will need a big game from their offense, and a showing from their inconsistent defense, if they expect to win.

About Texas A&M: The Aggies started their season off a different team from the 2008 4-9 campaign, winning three in a row. However, they lost three in a row right back to fall to 3-3. Two more wins followed, but Texas A&M would lose three of their last four, barely making bowl eligibility at 6-6.

Their offense is made of something amazing, finishing fifth in NCAA FBS with 465.33 yards a game. Both the passing and rushing game finished in the top 25 of their respective categories. Junior QB Jerrod Johnson was a tear for A&M, throwing for 3217 yards and 28 touchdowns, and picked up another eight touchdowns on the ground. Sophomore RB Cyrus Gray and Freshman RB Christine Michael combined for 1519 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Defensively, the unit gives up 431.33 yards a game (107^th in NCAA FBS) and 32.67 points a game (104^th in NCAA FBS). Junior LB Von Miller is the lone bright spot however, leading the nation with 17 sacks. A&M will win more with their offense than their defense, and should expect a high scoring matchup if they want to contend.

The Matchup: Georgia is 25-16-3 in their long history. They have won three in a row while making a bowl game for 13 straight seasons.

Texas A&M is 13-17, riding a three year losing streak in bowl games. This is their first bowl game since 2007.

This game promises to be an offensive blowout. Georgia is dealing with their own defensive turmoil, as they have fired Defensive Coordinator Willie Martinez, along with Coaches Jon Fabris and John Jancek. This puts extra pressure on Head Coach Mark Richt. Going against a Texas A&M squad with defensive struggles of their own, if they can limit the turnovers, they will reduce the pressure on their own defense. Miller will get his licks, attacking from his hybrid Defensive End/Linebacker position.

Georgia was able to slightly neutralize the Georgia Tech triple-option, so the abilities of Johnson should come as no surprise. However, Johnson usually sets the pace, and as long as he has the ball, the potential to score is in the air every down.

The Prediction: Defense may win championships, but Texas A&Ms offense wins the game, 56-42.

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November 25, 2009

NCAA Top 25 Week 13: Rivalry Week Lurks Ahead of Conference Championships

Filed under: ACC, Alabama, Auburn Tigers, BCS, BYU, Boise State, Cincinnati Bearcats, Clemson Tigers, College, FSU, Florida Gators, Florida State, Football, Gene Chizik, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Houston, Hurricanes, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas, LSU, Les Miles, MWC, Miami, Mike Gundy, Mississippi Rebels, NCAA, Navy, Nevada, Noel Devine, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Oregon Ducks, Oregon State, Pac-10, Penn State, Pittsburgh, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, UNC, USC Trojans, USF, Utah, Virginia Tech, West Virginia — Tags: ACC, Alabama, Auburn Tigers, BCS, Boise State, BYU, Cincinnati Bearcats, Clemson Tigers, College Football, Florida Gators, Florida State, FSU, Gene Chizik, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Houston, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas Jayhawks, Les Miles, LSU, Miami Hurricanes, Mike Gundy, Mississippi Rebels, MWC, Navy, NCAA, Nevada, Noel Devine, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Oregon Ducks, Oregon State, Pac-10, Penn State, Pittsburgh, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, Sportmeisters, Sports, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, USF, Utah Utes, Virginia Tech Hokies, West Virginia — SportmeisterRyan @ 12:26 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Rivalry week is here! This is the week where records can be thrown out, because, if you can beat your rival, it can be considered a winning season. Will this weeks top 25 have some upsets ahead of them?

1. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 11/26 at Texas A&M

A prime-time Thanksgiving game, where the Longhorns are going to be thankful Florida and Alabama have to play each other, giving Texas a boost in the BCS.

2. TCU (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 11/28 vs. New Mexico

TCU drops to number two, not because of their win over Wyoming, but because I rank Texas’s beating Kansas higher than TCU over Wyoming.

3. Florida (Last Week: 3) Next Game: 11/28 vs. Florida State

Another year of a “warm-up” before Florida State comes to town, and QB Tim Tebow should feast in his last home game against FSU’s shoddy defense.

4. Alabama (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 11/27 at Auburn

Auburn is an up and down team, and if Alabama is looking ahead, Gene Chizik’s staff could pull the rug right out from underneath the Tide.

5. Boise State (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 11/27 vs. Nevada

Boise State can’t sleep on the Wolfpack, who have won eight in a row since starting off 0-3.

6. Cincinnati (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 11/27 vs. Illinois

A non-conference matchup still holds some weight for the Bearcats, who look to remain undefeated, with an outside shot at the BCS title game.

7. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 11/28 vs. Georgia

The Yellow Jackets have had the Bulldogs number in the past few seasons, and should continue that, leading up to their clash against Clemson next week.

8. Ohio State (Last Week: 9) Next Game: Rose Bowl vs. TBD

As per the Big 10, Ohio State ended their season, and now will sit and wait for their Rose Bowl opponent.

9. Pittsburgh (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 11/27 at West Virginia

The Panthers cannot afford to look ahead to Cincinnati next week, and have to focus on Noel Devine and his blaring speed.

10. Penn State (Last Week: 11) Next Game: Bowl Game

Penn State jumps back into the top ten, and wait word on their bowl game.

11. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 11/28 at Oklahoma

A year ago, this would have been a bigger game, but for Coach Mike Gundy, he is still looking for his first victory against the Sooners.

12. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 11/28 at Virginia

Is this really a rivalry game? VT should run all over Al Groh’s hapless squad.

13. Oregon (Last Week: 14) Next Game: Idle

Oregon waits for the Civil War against Oregon State in two weeks, with the Pac-10 on the line.

14. Iowa (Last Week: 16) Next Game: Bowl Game

Iowa will look back on this season as the one that could have been, and hope to start next season off right with a bowl win.

15. Clemson (Last Week: 19) Next Game: 11/28 at South Carolina

An ACC Title Bid and a win against South Carolina could make a lot of Tiger fans very thankful this holiday season.

16. LSU (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 11/28 vs. Arkansas

Only in the SEC could a top 25 coach be out on the streets after the season, but that’s how it’s looking for Les Miles.

17. Oregon State (Last Week: NR) Next Game: Idle

Both Oregon and Oregon State get the extra week to prepare for a huge Pac-10 showdown next week.

18. USC (Last Week: 18) Next Game: 11/28 vs. UCLA

Can USC salvage this “rebuilding season” with a win against their rivals?

19. Utah (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 11/28 at No. 20 Brigham Young

Neither team can win the MWC, but both are fighting for a 10 win season, which is still respectable.

20. Brigham Young (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 11/21 vs. No. 19 Utah

BYU is 3-2 at home, while opponent Utah is 3-2 on the road.

21. Navy (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 11/28 vs. Hawaii

The Midshipmen take a week off, and still move up in the polls.

22. Miami (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 11/28 at South Florida

It’s not a rivalry game per se, but South Florida already took down one of the Florida Big Three, can a second win be far behind?

23. Houston (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 11/28 vs. Rice

Houston bounced back with a trouncing of Memphis in week 12.

24. Mississippi (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 11/28 at Mississippi State

An upset win brings the Rebels into the top 25.

25. North Carolina (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 11/28 at NC State

The Tar Heels move into the top 25, on the heels of a four game winning streak.

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October 30, 2009

NCAA Week 9 Top 25: Who Wants To Be Number 1?

Filed under: ACC, Alabama, Arizona Wildcats, Auburn Tigers, BCS, BYU, Big 10, Boise State, Case Keenum, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Dez Bryant, Florida Gators, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Houston, Hurricanes, Iowa Hawkeyes, LSU, Lane Kiffin, Miami, Mississippi Rebels, NCAA, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, Pittsburgh, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, Steve Spurrier, TCU, Terrence Cody, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, UNC, USC Trojans, USF, Utah, Virginia Tech, West Virginia — Tags: ACC, Alabama, Arizona Wildcats, Auburn Tigers, BCS, Big 10, Boise State, BYU, Case Keenum, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Dez Bryant, Florida Gators, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Houston, Iowa Hawkeyes, Lane Kiffin, LSU, Miami Hurricanes, Mississippi Rebels, NCAA, Notre Dame, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, Pittsburgh, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, Sportmeisters, Sports, Steve Spurrier, TCU, Terrence Cody, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, Tulane, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, USF, Utah Utes, Virginia Tech Hokies, West Virginia — SportmeisterRyan @ 9:09 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Before I get into my Top 25, let me just say it was done prior to UNC-VT, but intermittent internet issues prevented me from getting this published. That said, let’s go to the rankings.

1. Texas (Last Week: 3) Next Game: 10/31 at No. 11 Oklahoma State

Texas took care of business, looking like the team of 2008, and for that, jumps both SEC challengers for number one.

2. Florida (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 10/31 at Georgia

Tim Tebow has been struggling in weeks past, but usually steps up to the plate on must-win games. Georgia is a must-win game for Florida.

3. Alabama (Last Week: 1) Next Game: Idle

A well-timed field goal block by Terrence Cody keeps Alabama undefeated and fighting for a BCS Championship slot.

4. USC (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 10/31 vs. No. 14 Oregon

USC has the national title in their sights, but must take out Pac-10 upstart Oregon first.

5. TCU (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 10/31 vs. ULNV

TCU laid the smack down on BYU, putting them in full control to run the table the rest of the way.

6. Boise State (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 10/31 vs. San Jose State

How bad is Boise State rooting for Oregon, which would continue to validate the Broncos season-opening win.

7. Iowa (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 10/31 vs. Indiana

Iowa doesn’t win pretty, requiring another last-minute touchdown to defeat Michigan State, but they do win.

8. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 10/31 at Vanderbilt

Miami’s loss opens the door up for Georgia Tech in the ACC Coastal, who already hold the tie-breaker over Virginia Tech.

9. LSU (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 10/31 vs. Tulane

LSU’s defense really stepped up against high-powered Auburn, holding the Tigers to 10 points.

10. Cincinnati (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 10/31 at Syracuse

The Bearcats jump into the top ten thanks to a Miami loss, and another convincing win.

11. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 10/31 vs. No. 1 Texas

WR Dez Bryant will not return this season (suspension), making the upset attempt that much more difficult for the Cowboys.

12. Penn State (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 10/31 at Northwestern

A classic look-ahead trap game? Ohio State is looming, as Penn State tries to stay in Big 10 title contention.

13. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 10/29 vs. North Carolina

Thursday night games are trap games, but Virginia Tech had an extra week to prepare for a lowly UNC squad.

14. Oregon (Last Week: 16) Next Game: 10/31 at No.4 USC

The Pac-10 has some competition now, and Oregon’s comeback from their week one flop could come full circle against USC.

15. Ohio State (Last Week: 17) Next Game: 10/31 vs. New Mexico State

The Buckeyes bounced back, and now have a non-conference game they should easily win.

16. Pittsburgh (Last Week: 17) Next Game: Idle

Pittsburgh gets to rest up, especially with three top 25 opponents on the schedule in the next four weeks.

17. Miami (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 10/31 at Wake Forest

The Hurricanes took a major step back with their overtime loss at Clemson, and will need some help to get back in the ACC title hunt.

18. Utah (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 10/31 vs. Wyoming

A few losses helps Utah jump higher in the rankings.

19. Houston (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/31 at Southern Miss

Houston, led by QB Case Keenum, steps back into the top 25.

20. West Virginia (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 10/30 at South Florida

Don’t look too closely at West Virginia’s close victory, as they played an emotional Connecticut team last weekend.

21. South Carolina (Last Week: 25) Next Game: 10/31 at Tennessee

It’s a battle of the mouths between Steve Spurrier and Lane Kiffin in this SEC matchup.

22. Oklahoma (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 10/31 vs. Kansas State

Oklahoma hangs around the top 25, but don’t expect too much noise out of them this season.

23. Notre Dame (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/31 vs. Washington State

Notre Dame hasn’t been amazing, but has performed well enough to merit a top 25 ranking.

24. Arizona (Last Week: NR) Next Game: Idle

The Wildcats will be watching USC-Oregon very closely, to see who they have to top as they look for the Pac-10 title.

25. Mississippi (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/31 at Auburn

The SEC controls a quarter of the top 25, rounded out by Mississippi joining the fray.

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October 8, 2009

NCAA Week 6 Top 25

Filed under: ACC, Alabama, Auburn Tigers, BYU, Big 10, Big 12, Boise State, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Dez Bryant, FSU, Florida Gators, Florida State, Football, Gene Chizik, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Hurricanes, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas, LSU, LeGarrette Blount, Miami, Michigan Wolverines, Missouri Tigers, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, USC Trojans, USF, Virginia Tech — Tags: ACC, Alabama, Auburn Tigers, Big 10, Big 12, Boise State, BYU, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Florida Gators, Florida State, FSU, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas Jayhawks, LSU, Miami Hurricanes, Missouri Tigers, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, SEC, South Carolina, South Florida Bulls, Sportmeisters, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, USC Trojans, USF, Virginia Tech Hokies — SportmeisterRyan @ 12:39 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Here we go, a matchup of two top five teams highlight the upcoming week! But who else takes this week’s top spots?

1. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 10/10 at No. 4 LSU

Gator Nation holds their collective breath as they wait word on their savior, QB Tim Tebow, and whether or not he’ll play this weekend.

2. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Colorado

Longhorn fans hold their breath too, because a UF loss coupled with a Texas win means they will occupy the top spot.

3. Alabama (Last Week: 3) Next Game: 10/10 at No. 15 Ole Miss

The Crimson Tide have won 16 of 18 against the Rebels, and sports the nations number two defense.

4. LSU (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 10/10 vs. No. 1 Florida

LSU took down Georgia last weekend, but have to prepare for two very different quarterbacks this weekend.

5. USC (Last Week: 5) Next Game: Idle

USC gets week off to let their players heal up, but have to be aware of a much tougher Pac-10 then they imagined.

6. Ohio State (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Wisconsin

This game will give one of these two teams an open shot at the Big 10 Title.

7. TCU (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 10/10 at Air Force

Ok, personal gripe here, but AFN (Armed Forces Network) is showing this game over most likely the FSU game. Boo.

8. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Boston College

The Hokies are arguably the only ACC team worth its weight in any merit, though it still has to prove it can win outside the ACC.

9. Boise State (Last Week: 10) Next Game: Idle

With a look at their schedule, Boise State has a legitimate shot at running the table, but will need help from other teams if a national title shot is in the cards.

10. Miami (Last Week: 17) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Florida A&M

3-1 after a rough stretch is a good omen for the Hurricanes, who are quickly exhibiting dominance in 2009.

11. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 10/10 at Florida State

Miami’s big win prevents Georgia Tech from jumping into the top ten, and even a huge win against FSU doesn’t hold much weight anymore.

12. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 10/10 at Texas A&M

The Cowboys now might have to face the rest of the season without top WR Dez Bryant, who has been named ineligible by the NCAA.

13. Penn State (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Eastern Illinois

The Nittany Lions are still holding their own, and crushed Illinois last week to prove it.

14. Auburn (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/10 at Arkansas

We welcome the Tigers and Gene Chizik’s squad, who has won more games than in his two previous years combined.

15. Ole Miss(Last Week: 15) Next Game: 10/10 vs. No. 3 Alabama

Ole Miss has to prevent from falling deeper down the SEC ranks, and need a big game against Alabama this weekend.

16. Kansas (Last Week: 16) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Iowa State

Kansas has had such an easy schedule thus far, one wonders if Baby Mangino could have coached them to their perfect record.

17. BYU (Last Week: 18) Next Game: 10/10 at UNLV

As FSU keeps slipping, that makes BYU’s upset loss more challenging to show themselves as legitimate

18. Oklahoma (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Baylor

Despite the 2-2 record, Oklahoma is still in the running for the Big 12 title, but it’s a crowded field.

19. Georgia (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 10/3 vs. No. 4 LSU

Georgia could catch the Tigers napping, and need to strike when it happens.

19. Cincinnati (Last Week: 20) Next Game: Idle

Cincinnati being in the bottom half of the polls shows how preseason polls can’t be legitimate at all.

20. Nebraska (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 10/8 vs. No. 25 Missouri

A Thursday night game after a long week could keep the Cornhuskers from being another Thursday night upset special.

21. Oregon (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 10/10 at UCLA

The Ducks keep moving back into contention and now there is talk of reinstating RB LeGarrette Blount, and that’s not coincidental at all (right….).

22. Iowa (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Michigan

Despite not having a ranking, Michigan is still a formidable opponent, and Iowa will have to play a complete game to earn the victory.

23. South Carolina (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 10/10 vs. Kentucky

South Carolina avoided the letdown game last week, but now have a target on their backs in the crowded SEC.

24. South Florida (Last Week: NR) Next Game: Idle

The Bulls join the top 25, and get a week off to celebrate.

25. Missouri (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 10/8 at No. 20 Nebraska

A top 25 team will lose this weekend, I guarantee it!

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September 30, 2009

NCAA Week 5 Top 25

Filed under: ACC, Alabama, BCS, BYU, Big 10, Big 12, Big East, Boise State, California, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Florida Gators, Florida State, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Houston, Hurricanes, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas, LSU, LeGarrette Blount, Miami, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, SEC, Sam Bradford, South Carolina, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, UNC, USC Trojans, Virginia Tech — Tags: ACC, Alabama, BCS, Big 10, Big 12, Big East, Boise State, BYU, California Golden Bears, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Florida Gators, FSU, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Houston, Iowa Hawkeyes, Kansas Jayhawks, LeGarrette Blount, LSU, Miami Hurricanes, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Ole Miss, Oregon Ducks, Pac-10, Penn State, Sam Bradford, SEC, South Carolina, Sportmeisters, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Tim Tebow, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, Virginia Tech Hokies — SportmeisterRyan @ 2:01 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA season is heating up, as another round of upsets bring some new faces in the Top 25 poll.

1. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: Idle

Gator fans are holding their breath waiting to see if QB Tim Tebow will recover from his concussion and be back in time to face LSU in two weeks.

2. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: Idle

Texas has been quietly lurking, waiting for their shot to overthrow the current kings of college football in Gainesville.

3. Alabama (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 10/3 at Kentucky

Alabama jumps up to number three, setting the stage for a huge SEC Championship game against UF later in the season, if they don’t slip up first.

4. LSU (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 10/3 at No. 19 Georgia

A big matchup, and again, LSU can’t afford to look ahead to Florida, and need to focus on this matchup ahead of them.

5. USC (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 10/3 vs. California

After their loss to Washington, USC is in a Pac-10 hole that they need to prevent from slipping down further.

6. Ohio State (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 10/3 at Indiana

Quick shoutout to my brother Adam, who runs a sports bar at a Hilton in Bloomington. He’ll have plenty of drinks to pour after Ohio State is done with them.

7. TCU (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 10/3 vs. Southern Methodist

Can TCU be for real? They’re once again, benefiting from others loss, and are holding a tight grip on being a BCS-Buster.

8. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 10/3 at Duke

The Hokies took down Miami handily last week, showing they are the clear front-runners for the ACC Title Game.

9. Oklahoma (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 10/3 at No. 17 Miami

QB Sam Bradford is trying to make his return for this game, but how well will he play?

10. Boise State (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 10/3 vs. UC Davis

The Broncos slid right up into the top ten, giving two non-AQ schools a real shot at grabbing a BCS Bowl.

11. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 15) Next Game: 10/3 at Mississippi State

Tech bounced back against a UNC squad, but still are on the outside looking in for the ACC title right now.

12. Houston (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/3 at UTEP

Houston was omitted from last week’s polls, but have shown the desire to be ranked in the top 25.

13. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 16) Next Game: Idle

The Cowboys move up thanks to losers in the polls.

14. Penn State (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 10/3 at Illinois

For the second straight season, Iowa is the kryptonite in the National Championship plans for Penn State.

15. Ole Miss(Last Week: 3) Next Game: 10/3 at Vanderbilt

Thursday night upset special? Much like last season, a top ranked team falls victim on a Thursday night.

16. Kansas (Last Week: 17) Next Game: Idle

The Jayhawks are quietly making progress in a crowded Big 12.

17. Miami (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 9/26 vs. No. 9 Oklahoma

Miami fell apart against Virginia Tech, but still have their fourth straight ranked opponent to face in Oklahoma this weekend.

18. BYU (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 10/2 vs. Utah State

BYU stays under Miami because Miami beat FSU, but BYU lost to FSU.

19. Georgia (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 10/3 vs. No. 4 LSU

Georgia could catch the Tigers napping, and need to strike when it happens.

20. Cincinnati (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 10/3 at Miami (Ohio)

The national polls have Cincinnati much higher, but I’m not sold on the Big East just yet.

21. Michigan (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 10/3 at Michigan State

A key Big 10 matchup this week will show just how far the Wolverines have come this season.

21. Nebraska (Last Week: 25) Next Game: Idle

Nebraska is one of five ranked teams in the Big 12 this season. Talk about competition!

22. UNC (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 10/3 vs. Virginia

The Tar Heels should bounce back after their flat performance against Georgia Tech and should take down Virginia handily.

23. Oregon (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/3 vs. Washington State

The Ducks are back in the polls, as they show they can perform without RB LeGarrette Blount.

24. Iowa (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/3 vs. Arkansas State

The Hawkeyes climb into the polls thanks to their win over Penn State.

25. South Carolina (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/3 vs. South Carolina State

A huge upset win allows the Gamecocks to climb into the polls for the first time this season.

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September 22, 2009

NCAA Week 4 Top 25

Filed under: ACC, Aaron Corp, Alabama, BCS, BYU, Boise State, California, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Colt McCoy, Florida Gators, Florida State, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Hurricanes, Kansas, LSU, Matt Barkley, Miami, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Penn State, SEC, Sports, TCU, Terrelle Pryor, Texas Longhorns, Todd Reesing, Tony Pike, UNC, USC Trojans, Virginia Tech, Washington — Tags: Aaron Corp, ACC, Alabama, BCS, Boise State, BYU, California Golden Bears, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Colt McCoy, Florida Gators, Florida State, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Kansas Jayhawks, LSU, Matt Barkley, Miami Hurricanes, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Ole Miss, Penn State, SEC, Sportmeisters, TCU, Terrelle Pryor, Texas Longhorns, Todd Reesing, Tony Pike, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, Virginia Tech Hokies, Washington — SportmeisterRyan @ 11:07 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Surprise, surprise? Some top teams stumble and are losing ground on the national title race. Who takes their spot? Let’s go to the polls.

1. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 9/26 at Kentucky

Gator fans and staff are blaming their ten point victory on the swine flu. Whatever happened to “a win is a win?”

2. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 9/26 vs. UTEP

Colt McCoy and company avoided another upset at the hands of Texas Tech, holding the Red Raiders to -6 rushing yards.

3. Ole Miss(Last Week: 4) Next Game: 9/24 at South Carolina

The Rebels move up thanks to USCs loss, but must avoid a letdown game in Columbia this week.

4. Alabama (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 9/26 at Arkansas

Three SEC teams in the top five? There is little doubt that this is the toughest conference in college football.

5. Penn State (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Iowa

The Spread HD may be their bread and butter, but their defense has given up only 20 points in three games.

6. LSU (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 9/26 at Mississippi State

A tough matchup against Georgia is on the horizon, but the Tigers can’t over look this weekend.

7. USC (Last Week: 3) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Washington State

The Trojans drop due to their loss, and now a QB battle is brewing between Matt Barkley, who is hurt, and Aaron Corp, who couldn’t lead the team to victory.

8. Ohio State (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Illinois

Terrelle Pryor ensured a victory this week, throwing for 262 yards and adding an extra 110 on the ground in the shutout.

9. TCU (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 9/26 at Clemson

The Horned Frogs take advantage of their counterparts mistakes, and slide further up into the top 10.

10. Miami (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 9/26 vs. No. 12 Virginia Tech

The Hurricanes are quickly showing they are for real, winning against another ranked opponent in the ACC.

11. Oklahoma (Last Week: 12) Next Game: Idle

Oklahoma gets an extra week to prepare against an equally dangerous Miami team.

12. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 9/26 at No. 10 Miami

A game winning drive took down Nebraska, but the Hokies will need a top game in order to get a victory this week.

13. UNC (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 9/26 at No.15 Georgia Tech

The Tar Heels are looking strong in the ACC this season, and this game gives them a chance to make some noise in the Coastal division.

14. Boise State (Last Week: 15) Next Game: 9/26 at Bowling Green

With BYU’s loss, Boise State is one of two teams left looking at a BCS bid as a non-automatic qualifier.

15. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 9/26 vs. No. 13 North Carolina

Miami exposed the triple offense. Can the Yellow Jackets get back on track and avoid a 1-2 ACC start?

16. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 16) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Grambling State

The Cowboys bounced back from their upset loss with a win over Rice, and should have an easy game against Grambling State this weekend.

17. Kansas (Last Week: 17) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Southern Miss

QB Todd Reesing has thrown for 806 yards in a mere three games this season.

18. California (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 9/26 at Oregon

Cal jumps thanks to some losses, but face an Oregon team with some fire after they beat Utah last week.

19. Florida State (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 9/26 vs. South Florida

It’s a tale of two teams for the Seminoles, as the team that beat BYU is not the same team that snuck by Jacksonville State.

20. BYU (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Colorado State

BYU lost their best shot at possibly competition for a national championship, and will need a lot of help to get back in the BCS conversation.

21. Georgia (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Arizona State

The Bulldogs played like a Big 12 team last week, putting up 52 points against Arkansas.

22. Cincinnati (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Fresno State

QB Tony Pike has 923 yards passing and eight touchdowns through three games this year.

23. Michigan (Last Week: 25) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Indiana

The Wolverines have matched their win total from last season, proving RichRod knows how to turn a team around in year two.

24. Washington (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 9/26 at Stanford

After a disappointing 0-12 season a year ago, an upset over USC finds the Huskies back in the top 25.

25. Nebraska (Last Week: 19) Next Game: 9/26 vs. Louisiana-Lafayette

A last minute drive knocked the Cornhuskers back, but they should get on track again this week.

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September 15, 2009

NCAA Week 3 Top 25

Filed under: Alabama, BYU, Boise State, California, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Florida Gators, Florida State, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Hurricanes, Kansas, LSU, Miami, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Penn State, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech, Tim Tebow, UNC, USC Trojans, Utah, Virginia Tech — Tags: Alabama, Boise State, BYU, California Golden Bears, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Florida Gators, Florida State, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Kansas Jayhawks, LSU, Miami Hurricanes, Michigan Wolverines, NCAA, Nebraska, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Sportmeisters, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, Utah Utes, Virginia Tech — SportmeisterRyan @ 1:16 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Are the men already being separated from the boys? Upsets are starting to become commonplace as conference matchups start up this week. Let’s see where the teams are falling now.

1. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Tennessee

Lane Kiffin has been running his mouth for months leading up to this matchup. You don’t think Tim Tebow and crew aren’t ready to make him eat his words?

2. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 9/19 vs. No. 22 Texas Tech

A revenge game is on tap in Austin, as the Longhorns look to avenge last year’s loss.

3. USC (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 9/19 at Washington

The defense is doing magic, ranking in the top 15 in both yards allowed and points scored. Can they keep that up against QB Jake Locker?

4. Ole Miss(Last Week: 3) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Southeastern Louisiana

Ole Miss slides this week, thanks to USC’s big win. An easy game this week should keep them as top five material.

5. Alabama (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 9/19 vs. North Texas

A non-descript win against FIU last week, and another winnable game this week.

6. Penn State (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Temple

The Nittany Lions take huge advantage of losses in front of them, as they move up again in the rankings.

7. LSU (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Louisiana-Lafayette

QB Jordan Jefferson is doing a fine job as the leader of this offense, throwing for 310 yards and three touchdowns in two games.

8. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 9/17 vs. No. 23 Miami

The Yellow Jackets almost blew a big lead against Clemson. Another game or two like that, and they could end up on the losing side.

9. Ohio State (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 9/19 at Toledo

The Buckeyes dropped two spots, as they had the lead up until the last second. They should bounce back quickly against Toledo.

10. TCU (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Texas State

The score last week wasn’t as close, as the Horned Frogs defense pitched a shutout until the fourth quarter.

11. BYU (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Florida State

If the Seminoles played like they did last week against the Cougars, BYU will just keep climbing in the rankings.

12. Oklahoma (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Tulsa

QB Landry Jones look Bradford-esque with his three touchdown performance, but the spotlight shone deeply on the Defense, who pitched a nice shutout last week.

13. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 15) Next Game: 9/19 vs. No. 19 Nebraska

They lost their first shot against a ranked opponent, and need a win here to keep from people questioning this team’s ability to win a big game.

14. UNC (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 9/19 at East Carolina

The Tar Heels almost slipped up against Connecticut, needing a last second safety to win it. Mistakes like those won’t get this team far.

15. Boise State (Last Week: 16) Next Game: 9/18 at Fresno State

QB Kellen Moore threw four touchdowns last week, and the Broncos keep making waves to be another BCS Buster this season.

16. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Rice

The Cowboys had a great chance to shoot up the charts, but blew it in a huge upset loss against Houston.

17. Kansas (Last Week: 17) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Duke

Another quiet win for the Jayhawks, and they are building momentum heading into Big 12 play soon.

18. Utah (Last Week: 18) Next Game: 9/19 at Oregon

San Jose State put up a fight, can Oregon knock the Utes off their perch?

19. Nebraska (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 9/19 at No. 13 Virginia Tech

Two easy wins, and now it’s time to travel and take on the Hokies.

20. California (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 9/19 at Minnesota

Many pundits have the Golden Bears ranked higher, but I still need to be impressed.

21. Georgia (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 9/19 at Arkansas

The Bulldogs prevented an 0-2 start with a big SEC win against South Carolina. Can they keep it up against the Razorbacks?

22. Texas Tech (Last Week: 23) Next Game: 9/19 at No. 2 Texas

The Red Raiders are looking to pull off another upset against Texas this week, but will have to do so in Austin.

23. Miami (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 9/17 vs. No. 8 Georgia Tech

An off week lets them prepare extra for the triple option threat that Georgia Tech will bring

24. Cincinnati (Last Week: 25) Next Game: 9/19 at Oregon State

They put up 70 points last week, can they keep up that offensive momentum?

25. Michigan (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 9/19 vs. Eastern Michigan

The Wolverines return to the polls after their big win against Notre Dame. Another win here should keep them moving up.

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September 10, 2009

NCAA Week 2 Top 25

Filed under: Alabama, BYU, Boise State, California, Cincinnati Bearcats, College, Colt McCoy, Florida Gators, Florida State, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech, Hurricanes, Kansas, LSU, Matt Barkley, Max Hall, Miami, NCAA, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Sam Bradford, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech, UNC, USC Trojans, Utah, Virginia Tech — Tags: Alabama, Boise State, BYU, California, Cincinnati Bearcats, College Football, Colt McCoy, Florida Gators, Florida State, Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Kansas Jayhawks, LSU, Matt Barkley, Max Hall, Miami Hurricanes, NCAA, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Sam Bradford, Sportmeisters, TCU, Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, Utah, Virginia Tech — SportmeisterRyan @ 2:37 pm

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Week one is in the books, with some changes already being made at the top of the rankings. Let’s take a look

1. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Troy

No problems last week against Charleston Southern, but how long until the season ending injury of Andre DeBose becomes an issue?

2. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 9/12 at Wyoming

Colt McCoy and the Longhorns slide up a spot thanks to Oklahoma’s loss.

3. Ole Miss(Last Week: 4) Next Game: Idle

Ole Miss keeps moving up the rankings, thanks to the big win against Memphis, but how will the swine flu bug affect them?

4. USC (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 9/12 at No. 7 Ohio State

Freshman QB Matt Barkley looked good against San Diego State, but his first true test comes this weekend against the Buckeyes, on the road.

5. Alabama (Last Week: 6) Next Game: 9/12 vs. FIU

For the second straight year, Alabama takes out an ACC foe in the opener. Last year, they rode that momentum to the SEC Championship Game.

6. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Houston

With Oklahoma’s loss, Oklahoma State could take the Big 12, but they need to keep their focus following last week’s win.

7. Ohio State (Last Week: 8 ) Next Game: 9/12 vs. No. 4 USC

The Buckeyes looked ahead last week, and almost slipped up against Navy. There can be no mistakes here.

8. Penn State (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Syracuse

JoePa goes two up on Bobby Bowden with last week’s win, and should gain another victory this week.

9. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 9/10 vs. Clemson

The Yellow Jackets move into the top ten after their convincing victory, and a couple timely losses. A short week bodes well for them in an ACC battle against Clemson.

10. LSU (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Vanderbilt

Washington posed a big threat, even for an 0-12 team. LSU needs their Defense to step up if they want SEC glory this season.

11. TCU (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 9/12 at Virginia

TCU got the benefit of the off week, and face a Virginia team still smarting from last week’s loss to an FBS member.

12. BYU (Last Week: 25) Next Game: 9/12 at Tulane

They jumped big this week after their upset of Oklahoma, thanks to the leadership of QB Max Hall. If they can continue the success, could a National Championship game be in the cards?

13. Oklahoma (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Idaho

QB and Heisman Trophy Winner Sam Bradford could be out for two weeks, but should be back in time for a showdown against Miami. However, Jermaine Gresham is lost for the season. The O-line has to step up this week.

14. UNC (Last Week: 15) Next Game: 9/12 at Connecticut

The Tar Heels are quietly building confidence, in the hopes of taking the ACC Crown this year.

15. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Marshall

How bad did the loss of Darren Evans affect this team? They still can take the ACC, but the loss to Alabama removes any national championship discussion.

16. Boise State (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Miami (OH)

Boise State spoiled Chip Kelly’s Oregon debut, and even a punch to the face won’t affect this squad.

17. Kansas (Last Week: 18) Next Game: 9/12 at UTEP

The Jayhawks had a quiet victory against Northern Colorado last week. Can they stay under the radar all season long?

18. Utah (Last Week: 19) Next Game: 9/12 at San Jose State

The Utes just keep on rolling, with another cupcake game on the schedule.

19. Notre Dame (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 9/12 at Michigan

Are the Irish back? An easy win last week would point signs to yes, but the true test will come from playing in the Big House.

20. Nebraska (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Arkansas State

Nebraska is humming along nicely, preparing for another cupcake battle.

21. California (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Eastern Washington

Cal won big last week, earning quite the revenge against Maryland.

22. Georgia (Last Week: 22) Next Game: 9/12 vs. South Carolina

I got to cheer with the 48^th IBCT as they root on their Dawgs against South Carolina this weekend. Should be on TV too!

23. Texas Tech (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Rice

The Red Raiders aren’t getting much play this season, but will still put up the big numbers, if you like that.

24. Miami (Last Week: NR) Next Game: Idle

The Hurricanes join the Top 25 after their victory over Florida State. They still have an extremely tough schedule ahead of them.

25. Cincinnati (Last Week: 25) Next Game: 9/12 vs. Southeast Missouri State

The Bearcats demolished Rutgers last week, making themselves the team to beat in the Big East.

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