OSU at Purdue

Tonight, Wednesday, January 31, 7:00 PM

#4 Ohio State (18-3, 6-1) at Purdue (14-7, 3-4)

TV-Nationally on ESPN2

 

OSU likely starters, stat leaders

Mike Conley Jr., guard, 6.6 assists/game

Ivan Harris, forward

Ron Lewis, guard

Jamar Butler, guard

Greg Oden, center, 15.6 points/game, 9.8 rebounds/game, 30.8 minutes/game

 

Purdue likely starters, stat leaders

Gordon Watt, sophomore forward

David Teague, senior guard, 29.6 minutes/game

Chris Kramer, freshman guard, 2.8 assists/game

Keaton Grant, freshman guard

Carl Landry, senior forward, 19.1 points/game, 6.8 rebounds/game

 

Ohio State hits the road for the first of two away games this week. Purdue has not lost at home. On the road Georgia Tech beat them fairly easily, but they barely lost to Butler (I was there!) The Boilermakers were not able to pull off rally at Wisconsin.

 

Greg Oden and Othello Hunter have both mourned the loss of loved ones this week. Most likely they will both play, but as could be expected, they have missed practice and their focus may not be 100%. Ohio State has had trouble holding a lead and playing a complete game. The Michigan State game on Saturday night was a good example, as OSU watched a 20-point halftime lead disappear at the hands of Spartan point guard Drew Neitzel.

 

The tallest starter for the Boilermakers is forward Carl Landry at 6'7". He is a good rebounder and leads the team in points/game, rebounds and shooting percentage (62.5%.) It will be interesting to see what Purdue does on offense to avoid Oden. Landry is not a good 3-point shooter, but perhaps he will attempt to pull Oden away from the basket with some mid-range jumpers. Purdue has two freshman that are 6'10" and 6'11", but they both average 7 minutes/game or less.

 

Another Game to Watch:

Tonight, two of the top-three teams in the Big Ten square off, with Wisconsin visiting Indiana. Unfortunately, most of us outside of Bloomington and Madison will not get this game on TV.

Preview-Ohio State at Northwestern

Tonight, Wednesday, January 24, 8:00 PM

#5 Ohio State (16-3 4-1) at Northwestern (11-8 1-5)

TV-locally on CBS Channel 10

 

OSU likely starters, stat leaders

Mike Conley, junior guard, 6.8 assists/game

Ivan Harris, senior forward

Ron Lewis, senior guard

Jamar Butler, junior guard

Greg Oden, freshman center, 15.3 points/game, 29.7 minutes/game, 9.5 rebounds/game

 

Northwestern likely starters, stat leaders

Tim Doyle, senior guard/forward, 34.6 minutes/game, 5.5 assists/game

Craig Moore, sophomore guard

Sterling Williams, sophomore guard/forward

Kevin Coble, freshman forward, 12.1 points/game, 4.8 rebounds/game

Vince Scott, senior center

 

Ponder this for a moment, OSU has three loses, all three of those teams are ranked ahead of Ohio State.... That sounds good right? Well there is one point of concern, all three of thos loses were on the road, and OSU has only played five away games. You may be thinking, "Ok we just killed these guys a week ago in Columbus." You are correct, although for this matchup not only has the location changed, but the Wildcats now have their leading scorer and rebounder back. Kevin Coble returned to the team for the victory at Minnesota, he played 29 minutes, shot 50%, had 13 points and four rebounds. You may also be thinking, "Haven't we beat them 14 straight times?" Again you are correct. I think it is likely that streak will continue, but I am trying to tell you that it will likely be much closer than the 73-41 game last week. Here are some stats to consider, in the last game the Wildcats shot 32% from the field, 38% from beyond the three point line, and they only had two free throw attempts. It is likely those below average stats will change in this game. If they hit shots, the annoying Princeton Offense could cause some issues, which I described in this previous post. It is also likely that Northwestern will be reluctant to play the 1-3-1 defense that point guard Mike Conley slashed through. Conley had seven field goals and 10 assists in that game. That means he had a hand in 17 of the 25 baskets. Conley has been turning it on as of late, he leads the conference in assists/game, steals/game and assists/turnover margin. The Buckeyes have shot very well from the free throw line, they are 69.8% for the season and 88% in the last three games. Oden, still shooting with his opposite hand, has hit 13 consecutive free throws.

Northwestern Coach Bill Carmody

After last night's domination over Northwestern (73-41) there is not much to say. Although I would like to complement the Ohio State coaching, "Matta, nice strategy with the zone!" The pesky Princeton offense run by Northwestern has caught teams, including OSU, off guard. Yes, Ohio State has beaten Northwestern 14 times straight, but there have been close ones, as I mentioned in the post yesterday. The zone allowed Oden to stay in the paint, and not get drawn to the perimeter where NW's big man has hit many threes before.

Every time I watch Ohio State play Northwestern, I think their coach, Bill Carmody, looks like late night comedian Conan O'Brien. Here are a couple pics, what do you think?

Conan O'Brien

Coach Bill Carmody

Preview: Northwestern vs. Ohio State

Tonight, Wednesday, January 17, 8:00 PM

Northwestern (10-7, 0-4) at #7 Ohio State (14-3, 2-1)

TV-locally on CBS Channel 10

 

OSU likely starters, stat leaders

Mike Conley, Freshman Guard, 6.4 assists/game

Ivan Harris, Senior Forward

Ron Lewis, Senior Guard

Jamar Butler, Junior Guard, 29.8 minutes/game

Greg Oden, Freshman Center, 14.9 points/game, 9.8 rebounds/game, 61% FG

 

Northwestern likely starters, stat leaders

Tim Doyle, Senior Guard, 5.6 assists/game, 34.6 minutes/game

Jeff Ryan, Freshman Forward, 51% FG

Craig Moore, Sophomore Guard

Sterling Williams, Sophomore Guard

Fifth Spot-Unknown

 

Notes on Matchup

Northwestern did not have their leading scorer and rebounder, Kevin Coble (12.1 points and 4.9 rebounds per game) for their close loss last Saturday at Wisconsin. He was out due to to an ankle sprain. He is unlikely to play in this game. The Wildcats have lost four games in a row. Ohio State has won 13 straight games against Northwestern, but some of the games have been close, including the last second shot by Lewis in Evanston last year. Greg Oden will need to be careful with the frustrating Princeton Offense run by the Wildcats. Oden will have to guard center Vince Scott on the perimeter because he has already hit 17 threes this season.

 

Princeton Offense

Coach Bill Carmody runs the Princeton offense, which is an offense that is always moving, full of passes and cuts. It is rare in college basketball because all five players must be able to handle the ball, pass and shoot. The ball is passed until a mismatch is found and a player either drives the ball to the basket or an open player gets the pass.

 

Another game of interest:

#4 North Carolina at #16 Clemson (ESPN 7:00 Tonight)

Both teams are coming off losses to teams they should have beat in the ACC. The young Tar Heels were #1 before the loss at Virginia Tech. As you may recall, OSU lost at North Carolina early in the season.

Pittman Career Pictures

Antonio Pittman came into Ohio State with a personal goal of winning the Heisman trophy, but he won't have a chance to win the award because he is heading to the NFL. He turned in two straight 1,000 yard season, with a total of 2,945 yards and 22 touchdowns. His stats could have been even higher, but he had to share minutes this season with star freshman Beanie Wells.

Scores OSU's only offensive touchdown in the BCS National Championship Game in 2007.

Running for a 56 yard touchdown against Michigan in 2006.

Reaching for a touchdown against Penn State in 2006.

Against Texas in 2006.

A 60 yard touchdown run against Notre Dame in the 2006 Fiesta Bowl.

The winning touchdown at Michigan in 2005.

At Minnesota in 2005.

Against Texas in 2005

In his first collegiate game, Cincinnati in 2004.

Photos provided by the Columbus Dispatch

Pittman Leaving

Running back Antonio Pittman has announced that he will skip his senior year and enter the NFL draft. He is the third junior this season at Ohio State to make such an announcement. Anthony Gonzalez and Ted Ginn Jr also declared themselves eligible for the draft. He said the following, "This decision came from the heart. It's a dream I've always had to support my family."

Ginn Career Pictures

Tedd Ginn Jr. came to Ohio State as a star football player and one of the fastest 110-meter hurdle runners in the country. His track speed translated to a Big Ten record of six punts returned for a touchdown. He led the Buckeyes this season with 59 catches for 9 touchdowns. Fans will miss his electrifying speed.

Speaking to Eddie George on the sideline after suffering a foot injury early in the BCS National Championship game.

Returning the initial kickoff for a touchdown in the BCS National Championship Game in 2007.

Picture from the front cover of the Dispatch following the victory over Michigan in 2006.

First half touchdown against Michigan in 2006.

First quarter touchdown catch against Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl in 2006.

In one of his many roles, he takes a direct snap at the Alamo Bowl in 2005.

Ginn returns one of his four punts as a true freshman

Against Minnesota in 2004

Pictures provided by the Columbus Dispatch.

Ginn Headed for NFL

Receiver Tedd Ginn Jr. released a statement today that announced his decision to skip his senior season and play in the NFL. He said the following, "I am excited to announce that I am making myself eligible for the National Football League draft."

Pittman will be announcing his decision within the hour.

Gonzalez Career Pictures

Anthony Gonzalez has been an integral part of the Ohio State offense, whether it was picking up a critical first down or catching a touchdown. We will miss him and we wish the best as he enters the NFL. We admire the fact that he will finish his education and graduate this spring as he also attends NFL combines for the scouts.

In the BCS National Championship Game in 2007

Against Michigan in 2006

At Texas in 2006

The Fiesta Bowl in 2006 against Notre Dame

Acrobatic catch to keep the drive going against Michigan in 2005

Against Michigan in 2004

Pictures provided by the Columbus Dispatch.

Gonzalez leaving, Ginn and Pittman-unknown

Receiver Anthony Gonzalez will be skipping his senior year to enter the NFL draft. He held a press conference this afternoon to announce his decision. He said the following, "This was truly the most difficult decision of my life, but I feel it is the correct decision." At this point he is projected to be a second round pick, likely behind a group of talented receivers including Jarrett (USC), Samardzija (ND), Meachem (Tenn), Johnson (G. Tech) and Ginn (OSU.) I don't pretend to be an NFL draft expert, so don't hold me to those predictions.

 

Tedd Ginn Sr. said that his son had his foot evaluated and it is just a sprain, that will take three to four weeks to heal. Ginn was hurt in the endzone after his touchdown. I posted a picture in a previous post. Ginn still has not announced if he intends to enter the draft. He is projected as a first round pick, but his injury may prevent him from working out in front of NFL scouts.

 

Running back Antonio Pittman will announce his decision regarding the draft on Monday at noon. Monday is the deadline for junior-year-player decisions.

Conference Bowl Game Results

Here are the final bowl results for each conference. The Big Ten did not finish well. Congrats to the Big East for winning the Bowl Challenge Cup.

 

Conference	Number of Teams	Wins-Losses	Winning Percentage	Teams
Big East	5	5-0	1.000	Winners: Louisville, Rutgers, South Florida, West Virginia, Cincinnati Losers: none
MWC	4	3-1	.750	Winners: BYU, TCU, Utah Loser: New Mexico
WAC	4	3-1	.750	Winners: Boise State, Hawaiʻi, San Jose State Loser: Nevada
SEC	9	6-3	.666	Winners: Auburn, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, South Carolina, Florida Losers: Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee
ACC	8	4-4	.500	Winners: Boston College, Florida State, Maryland, Miami Losers: Clemson, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest
Pac-10	6	3-3	.500	Winners: California, Oregon State, Southern California Losers: Arizona State, Oregon, UCLA
Sun Belt	2	1-1	.500	Winner: Troy Loser: Middle Tennessee
Big 12	8	3-5	.375	Winners: Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech Losers: Kansas State, Missouri, Texas A&M, Nebraska, Oklahoma
Big Ten	7	2-5	.286	Winners: Penn State, Wisconsin Losers: Iowa, Minnesota, Purdue, Michigan, Ohio State
MAC	4	1-3	.250	Winner: Central Michigan Losers: Northern Illinois, Ohio, Western Michigan
C-USA	5	1-4	.200	Winner: Southern Miss Losers: East Carolina, Houston, Rice, Tulsa
Independent	2	0-2	.000	Winner: Losers: Navy, Notre Dame

Ouch

Roy Hall blocks for Ted Ginn Jr. as he returns the kickoff,

then he injures his foot in the endzone celebrating. Thanks.

Guest Panel Final Standings

Guest Panel

The Guest Panel competition is over and the final results are in. Batman jumped ahead of Ari the Greek with his Bowl Game picks. Congratulations to the Caped Crusader! He wins an Ohio State shirt! There was a lot of movement in the panel. Spam Sandwichsan and Old Bag of Man each moved up three spots in the final standings. The final standings are below. The order is based on winning percentage of the panelists that picked bowl games. Thanks goes out to all of the panelists for their hard work and dedication each week.

 

32 Bowl Games

113 Total Games

Final Standings

1.   BATMAN (80-33), Bowl Games (21-11 ) (up one)

2.  FUNK (79-34), Bowl Games (22-10 ) (up one)

3.   GREEK (77-36), Bowl Games (18-14 ) 
3.  PHILLY (77-36), Bowl Games (21-11 ) (up one)
5.  SHADY (70-43), Bowl Games (21-11 ) (up two)

6.   OLD BAG (67-46), Bowl Games (19-13 ) (up three)
7.  SPAM (65-45), Bowl Games (18-12 ) (30 bowl games) (up three)

8.   GUAPO (66-46), Bowl Games (18-14 )

9.   CLEATUS (66-47), Bowl Games (13-19 )

10. XBOX (63-49), Bowl Games (17-15 )

DEERE (52-29), Bowl Games (0-0 )

Guest Panel Bowl Game Results

2006-07 Bowl Games
Date/time	Bowl	Site	Conferences	Matchup
(all ET)
Tue., Dec. 19	Poinsettia	San Diego	Mountain West vs. At-large team	TCU vs. Northern Illinois
8 p.m.
GREEK- TCU, What a cute name for a bowl game. What's next on the agenda? The Barbie Dream House Bowl? BATMAN- TCU, TCU wins  FUNK- Northern Illinois, Garrett Wolfe didn't finish the season as strong as he started.  Time to impress some NFL scouts against a rather good rushing defense.  PHILLY- TCU CLEATUS-TCU DEERE- SHADY- Northern Illinois, This running back needs to proved that he's good if he wants to get anywhere in the NFL GUAPO- Northern Illinois OLD BAG- Northern Illinois, NEW MAN LAW, NO FOOTBALL TEAM SHALL CELEBRATE A POINSETTIA VICTORY. SPAM- XBOX- Northern Illinois
Thu., Dec. 21	Las Vegas	Las Vegas	Mountain West vs. Pac-10	Brigham Young vs. Oregon
8 p.m.
GREEK-  Brigham Young, The best chance that Oregon has in this game is if the BYU players break their Mormon vows and run wild in Las Vegas before the game, and are all suspended from the team. BATMAN- Brigham Young, BYU outscores opponent  FUNK- Brigham Young, The Mormons are invading Las Vegas for the second consecutive year!  PHILLY- Oregon CLEATUS-Brigham Young DEERE- SHADY- Brigham Young, Go Mormons! GUAPO- Oregon OLD BAG- Oregon, I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A BYU PLAYER IN VEGAS, WHAT WOULD THEY DO FOR FUN? SPAM- XBOX- Oregon
Fri., Dec. 22	New Orleans	New Orleans	Sun Belt vs. Conference USA	Troy vs. Rice
8 p.m.
GREEK- Rice, Call me crazy, but I think Rice wins this game pretty easily. It should be a fun offensive show though, whatever happens. BATMAN- Rice, might be able to hang with FSU, but not with Rice  FUNK- Troy, One team hasn't won a bowl game in 54 years.  The other hasn't won a bowl game in ever.  One of these teams has to win.  PHILLY- Troy CLEATUS-Rice, This game brought to you by hurricane Katrina. DEERE- SHADY- Troy, Troy reminds of the Iliad GUAPO- Troy OLD BAG- Troy, THE MEN OF TROY SOMETHING SOMETHING. SPAM- Rice XBOX- Troy
Sat., Dec. 23	Papajohns.com	Birmingham, Ala.	Big East or MAC vs. Conference USA	South Florida vs. East Carolina
1 p.m.
GREEK- South Florida, I have a website also, can I get my very own bowl game too??? I guess they can't fit TheGreekRulesAnythingandEverything.com Bowl into signage too well. Too bad, it would have been fun. BATMAN- South Florida, USF takes care of business FUNK- South Florida, Even I won't be watching this one.  PHILLY- South Florida CLEATUS-East Carolina, Are there going to be little banana peppers and a small tub of garlic dipping sauce in the corner of each end zone? DEERE- SHADY- South Florida, This team is in the verge of getting really good if you pay attention. GUAPO- South Florida OLD BAG- South Florida, ONCE AGAIN, WHERE IS EAST CAROLINA? I DECLARE SOUTH FLORIDA THE NEW MIAMI. SPAM- South Florida XBOX- South Florida
Sat., Dec. 23	New Mexico	Albuquerque, N.M.	Mountain West vs. WAC	New Mexico vs. San Jose State
4:30 p.m.
GREEK- San Jose State, I don't think anybody east of the Mississippi will watch this game unless they're being paid to do so. BATMAN- New Mexico State, New Mexico gets the job done FUNK- San Jose State, I didn't even know there was a New Mexico Bowl.  I supposed the conventional wisdom would be that New Mexico should have the advantage there, but I say nuts to that!  PHILLY- New Mexico CLEATUS-New Mexico DEERE- SHADY- New Mexico, They're playing in NM GUAPO- San Jose State OLD BAG- New Mexico, HELLO HOME GAME. SPAM- New Mexico XBOX- New Mexico
Sat., Dec. 23	Armed Forces	Fort Worth	Conference USA vs. Mountain West	Tulsa vs. Utah
8 p.m.
GREEK- Utah, Shouldn't one of the service academies be playing in the "Armed Forces" Bowl?! Nothing against Tulsa or Utah, but where's the love for Air Force, Army, Navy? BATMAN- Utah, Utah does not get defeated FUNK- Utah, The Hurricane was no match for Mini Ditka, and the Golden Hurricane is no match for Utah.  What is a hurricane even doing in Oklahoma in the first place?  PHILLY- Utah CLEATUS-Tulsa, Nothing says "Hey!  Support your US Armed Forces" like a game between Utah and Tulsa.   DEERE- SHADY- Tulsa, I never did like Utah GUAPO- Tulsa OLD BAG- Tulsa, TULSA RHYMES WITH SALSA AND I LIKE SALSA. SPAM- Utah XBOX- Utah
Sat., Dec. 24	Hawaii	Honolulu	Pac-10 vs. WAC	Arizona State vs. Hawaii
8 p.m.
GREEK- Hawaii, Can we officially announce the name "Colt" as the best name for a college QB? You can't argue with the results that McCoy and Brennan have produced this season. BATMAN- Hawaii, Hawaii finishes what it started  FUNK- Hawaii, Unlike the New Mexico Bowl, I'm going to go with the home team in this one.  Methinks the homefield advantage might be a little stronger in Hawaii.  PHILLY- Hawaii CLEATUS-Hawaii, They'll have home field advantage.  The forecast is calling for a small cloud to pass by the stadium sometime during the game.  It's the first cloud spotted in Hawaii since it became a state.  Must be rough…. DEERE- SHADY- Hawaii, I really want to go to Hawaii.  That and I don't think anyone from AZ is gonna travel there. GUAPO- Hawaii OLD BAG- Hawaii, MUKA LAKA HEME YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO LAY ME, BOOM SHAKA BOOM. THE QB FROM HAWAII WILL THROW FOR 1,000 YARDS THIS GAME. SPAM- Arizona State XBOX-  Hawaii
Tue., Dec. 26	Motor City	Detroit	MAC vs. Big Ten	Central Michigan vs. Middle Tennessee*
7:30 p.m.
GREEK- Central Michigan, Central Michigan, your reward for a great 9-4 season and winning the MAC Championship? A bowl game in Detroit the day after Christmas!!! I can only imagine the absolute joy in the Central Michigan football center when this bowl game was announced. BATMAN- Central Michigan, Central Michigan represents the MAC FUNK- Central Michigan, What happened to the days when all of the directional Michigans were just abysmal?  PHILLY- Central Michigan CLEATUS- Middle Tennessee DEERE- SHADY- Central Michigan, Michigan win #1 GUAPO- Middle Tennessee OLD BAG- Central Michigan, THE ASTRIK NEXT TO MIDDLE TENNESSEE IS A DISCLAIMER FOR WE SUCK. SPAM- Central Michigan XBOX- Central Michigan
Wed., Dec. 27	Emerald	San Francisco	Pac-10 vs. ACC	UCLA vs. Florida State
8 p.m.
GREEK- UCLA, The Seminoles deserve to fly across the country to play in a bowl game considering this craptacular season they've pieced together. Remember the days of Charlie Ward, Chris Weinke, Peter Warrick at FSU? Bobby Bowden doesn't, and neither do I. BATMAN- UCLA, Bowden loses and is fired before next season FUNK- UCLA, Man, it has been good to see Florida State struggle this year.  PHILLY- UCLA CLEATUS- UCLA, Florida State continues to disappoint. DEERE- SHADY- UCLA, They finished strong. GUAPO- UCLA OLD BAG- Florida State , THE GAYS IN SAN FRAN WILL SCARE FLORIDA STATE TO VICTORY. SPAM- Florida State XBOX-  Florida State
Thu., Dec. 28	Independence	Shreveport, La.	SEC vs. Big 12	Alabama vs. Oklahoma State
4:30 p.m.
GREEK- Oklahoma State, It's only the Independence Bowl and I'm getting sick of making these picks, uggghhhh. I need a break. BATMAN- Oklahoma State, Alabama loses FUNK- Oklahoma State, 'Bama was burned by Rich Rodriguez so he could stay at West Virginia.  Ouch.  PHILLY- Alabama CLEATUS- Alabama, Ah yes, the famous city of Shreveport, La. You know what they say about that place…"Shreveport.  Where the hell is that?" DEERE- SHADY- Alabama, At least the bottom half of the SEC is good. GUAPO- Oklahoma State OLD BAG- Alabama, YOU LIKE THE TIDE? SPAM- Oklahoma State XBOX- Alabama
Thu., Dec. 28	Holiday	San Diego	Pac-10 vs. Big 12	California vs. Texas A&M
8 p.m.
GREEK- Texas A&M, Doesn't Cal seem to play in this bowl game every year? Don't they lose every year also? BATMAN- California, Cal ends nice season with a victory FUNK- California, I have no idea on this one.  I'm going to pick A&M to come back down to earth after their nice upset of the Longhorns.  PHILLY- California CLEATUS- Texas A&M DEERE- SHADY- California, Cal in Cal, they'll take care of business. GUAPO- Texas A&M OLD BAG- California, THE GOLDEN BEARS WILL RAIN DOWN LIKE A GOLDEN SHOWER ON A&M. SPAM- California XBOX- California
Thu., Dec. 28	Texas	Houston	Big 12 vs. Big East or Conference USA	Kansas State vs. Rutgers
8 p.m.
GREEK- Rutgers, Poor poor Rutgers…going from an outside shot at the BCS Championship Game one week to the friggin' Texas Bowl a few weeks later. I hope those Scarlet Knights fans like to travel, because the game will be broadcast on the NFL Network, which I think is available in about 5 homes nationwide. BATMAN- Rutgers, Rutgers tastes a bowl victory FUNK- Rutgers, If I have to hear any more about the Scarlet Knights "keep choppin' wood" mantra, I'm going to punch someone.  Seriously, though, they're pretty good.  PHILLY- Rutgers CLEATUS- Rutgers DEERE- SHADY- Rutgers, Boy are they pissed that they lost the championship. GUAPO- Rutgers OLD BAG- Rutgers, HERE'S YOUR CHANCE RUTGERS, TO SHOW THAT YOU'RE BACK. SPAM- Rutgers XBOX- Kansas State
Fri., Dec. 29	Music City	Nashville	SEC vs. ACC	Kentucky vs. Clemson
1 p.m.
GREEK- Clemson, Clemson is the much better team on paper, but, lost 3 out of their last 4 games, while Kentucky won 4 of its last 5. However, Kentucky is ranked #118 in total defense. Davis and Spiller should have a fun day in Nashville. BATMAN- Clemson, Clemson over Kentucky FUNK- Clemson, I have a sneaking suspicion that Kentucky is going to come into this game way more fired up and may very well win it, but I'm picking Clemson because talent-wise it's not even close.  PHILLY- Clemson CLEATUS- Clemson DEERE- SHADY- Clemson, They were supposed to me one of they best this year, but they didn't happen. GUAPO- Clemson OLD BAG- Clemson, TUBBY SMITH WILL NEVER WIN A BOWL GAME. SPAM- Clemson XBOX- Kentucky
Fri., Dec. 29	Sun	El Paso	Pac-10 vs. Big 12 or Big East	Oregon State vs. Missouri
2 p.m.
GREEK- Oregon State, Oregon State won 7 of its last 8 games. Mizzou lost 4 of its last 6 games. You don't need to have the prognosticating prowess of the Greek to pick this one. BATMAN- Missouri, Missouri upset special FUNK- Oregon State, If Oregon State can find a way to hold off USC, they can take down Mizzou.  PHILLY- Oregon State CLEATUS- Oregon State, I'm picking most of these games by random. DEERE- SHADY- Oregon State, They did beat USC, oh wait, that doesn't mean anything now. GUAPO- Oregon State OLD BAG- Missouri, MISSOURI LOVES COMPANY AND THIS TIME ITS A BOWL WIN. SPAM- Oregon State XBOX- Oregon State
Fri., Dec. 29	Liberty	Memphis	Conference USA vs. SEC	Houston vs. South Carolina
4:30 p.m.
GREEK- South Carolina, Whatever the over/under is on this game, take the over. BATMAN- South Carolina, South Carolina FUNK- South Carolina, Spurrier has too big of an ego to lose to Houston.  PHILLY- South Carolina CLEATUS- Houston DEERE- SHADY- South Carolina, A friend of mine is a cock. GUAPO- South Carolina OLD BAG- South Carolina, COCKS ALWAYS PREVAIL. SPAM- South Carolina XBOX- South Carolina
Fri., Dec. 29	Insight	Tempe, Ariz.	Big 12 vs. Big Ten	Texas Tech vs. Minnesota
7:30 p.m.
GREEK- Texas Tech, See the Liberty Bowl comment. BATMAN- Texas Tech, Minnesota never showed me anything FUNK- Texas Tech,  I heard someone say somewhere that this is a classic matchup of a great passing team vs. a great running team.  Then I found out that Minnesota averages 151 rushing yards per game.  That is not great.  PHILLY- Texas Tech CLEATUS- Minnesota, Gotta show the Big Ten love. DEERE- SHADY- Texas Tech, The bottom half of the Big 10 sucks this year. GUAPO- Texas Tech OLD BAG- Minnesota, THE BIG TEN REPRESENTS STARTING NOW. SPAM- Minnesota XBOX- Texas Tech
Fri., Dec. 29	Champs Sports	Orlando	ACC vs. Big Ten	Maryland vs. Purdue
8 p.m.
GREEK- Purdue, As much as I want to take Maryland given the family connections, I just can't do it. Have you seen their offensive and defensive statistics for the season?! I'll probably be eating my words though come 11 PM on Dec. 29th though. BATMAN- Maryland, Purdue never showed me anything FUNK- Purdue, How Maryland was playing a game the last week of the season for a shot at the ACC Championship game I'll never know.  Purdue isn't any good either, but they don't fear the turtle.  PHILLY- Maryland CLEATUS- Purdue, I bet the players are more excited to visit Disney Land instead of playing in this game. DEERE- SHADY- Maryland, See previous comment GUAPO- Purdue OLD BAG- Purdue, MARYLAND MIGHT HAVE THE SECOND FATTEST COACH BEHIND NOTRE DAME. WHAT THAT HAS TO DO WITH PURDUE WINNING, I DONT KNOW. SPAM- Purdue XBOX- Purdue
Sat., Dec. 30	Meineke Car Care	Charlotte	ACC vs. Big East or Navy	Boston College vs. Navy
1 p.m.
GREEK- Boston College, Once again, I show love for my man, Navy QB Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada. I just can't pick his team to win the game though. Love ya Kaipo-Noa!!! BATMAN- Boston College , I pick Boston College FUNK- Boston College, After this game, Navy should ask BC for some pointers on beating Notre Dame.  It is time for that ridiculous win streak to come to an end.  PHILLY- Boston College CLEATUS- Boston College , Is that George Foreman Sr. as the spokesman for the meineke.com website?  What hasn't that man been involved with….boxing champion, actor, grill guru, Meineke Car Care spokesman.  What's next?!    DEERE- SHADY- Boston College, This was actually the hardest pick that I had to make, but I went with the Iggles GUAPO- Boston College OLD BAG- Boston College, IN THE NAVY WE CAN SAIL THE SEVEN SEAS. IN THE NAVY WE CAN LOSE TO BC. SPAM- Boston College XBOX- Navy
Sat., Dec. 30	Alamo	San Antonio	Big 12 vs. Big Ten	Texas vs. Iowa
4:30 p.m.
GREEK- Texas, One last chance for McCoy to prove his worth in the battle of the Colt college football QBs vs. Brennan. BATMAN- Texas, easiest game to pick FUNK- Texas, If Colt McCoy plays, this won't be close.  If the other McCoy has to play, Iowa has a chance, but I'd still go with Texas.  PHILLY- Texas CLEATUS- Texas, Colt McCoy is better than the Iowa defense. DEERE- SHADY- Texas, Again with the Big 10 GUAPO- Texas OLD BAG- Texas, I THOUGH ABOUT PICKING ALL BIG TEN, BUT I REMEMBER HOW BADLY IOWA FELL APART THIS SEASON AND THAT TEXAS IS FILLED WITH PLAYERS WITH HORSE NAMES. SPAM- Iowa XBOX- Iowa
Sat., Dec. 30	Chick-Fil-A	Atlanta	SEC vs. ACC	Virginia Tech vs. Georgia
8 p.m.
GREEK- Virginia Tech, The Hokies will be 'a Pokin' down in Hotlanta. BATMAN- Georgia, Georgia plays in a better conference  FUNK- Virginia Tech, This is way too good of a bowl game for Georgia for this season.  PHILLY- Virgina Tech CLEATUS- Virginia Tech,  All the players will get free Chick-fil-A before the game.  In an unrelated story, all the players end up sick and can't leave the locker room prior to kick off.  This bowl game will now be called the Chick-salmonell-A game. DEERE- SHADY- Georgia, Georgia in Georgia GUAPO- Virginia Tech OLD BAG- Georgia, VA TECH SURE DOES MISS A VICK BEING IN THE LINEUP. SPAM- Virginia Tech XBOX- Virginia Tech
Sun., Dec. 31	MPC Computers	Boise	WAC vs. ACC	Nevada vs. Miami
7:30 p.m.
GREEK- Nevada, If it was any other team playing for its lame duck coach, I would have picked them. My apologies to "The U," but I just don't have much faith. BATMAN- Miami, sends Larry Coker to the unemployment line in fine style  FUNK- Nevada, The over/under on this game is 53.5 Miami fans making the trip to Idaho for New Years.  PHILLY- Miami CLEATUS- Nevada, Every single Miami player that took part in that brawl should be expelled from Div. 1 A college football.  It's funny how this is the MPC Computer bowl and most of the Miami football team doesn't even know how to use a computer.  DEERE- SHADY- Miami, Do you think that there will be any Miami fans there? GUAPO- Nevada OLD BAG- Miami, MIAMI WINS GAME AND FIGHT. SPAM- Miami XBOX- Nevada
Mon., Jan. 1	Outback	Tampa	Big Ten vs. SEC	Penn State vs. Tennessee
11 a.m.
GREEK- Tennessee, We're now taking bets on the medical malady that will befall JoePa during this game. BATMAN- Tennessee, PSU couldn't win a big game all year FUNK- Tennessee, JoePa should have retired after that incredible win in the Orange Bowl over Bobby Bowden last year.  (Come to think of it, maybe Bobby Bowden should have, too.)  PHILLY- Tennessee CLEATUS- Tennessee, This pick is for Kati.  DEERE- SHADY- Tennessee, Again with the Big 10 GUAPO- Penn State OLD BAG- Tennessee, I DON'T THINK PENN STATES QB (RALPH MACCHIO) IS THAT GOOD. SPAM- Penn State XBOX- Penn State
Mon., Jan. 1	Cotton	Dallas	SEC vs. Big 12	Auburn vs. Nebraska
11:30 a.m.
GREEK- Nebraska, Big 12 North vs. the SEC? Gut says to go to with the SEC, heart says to go with the 'Huskers. BATMAN- Auburn, Auburn was ranked #2 at one time FUNK- Auburn, Nebraska is definitely on the way back, but they're still not there yet.  PHILLY- Auburn CLEATUS- Auburn DEERE- SHADY- Auburn, Nebraska was a big let down for me this year. GUAPO- Auburn OLD BAG- Auburn, AUBURN, THE COLOR OF NEBRASKA LOSING. SPAM- Auburn XBOX- Nebraska
Mon., Jan. 1	Gator	Jacksonville	ACC vs. Big 12 or Big East	Georgia Tech vs. West Virginia
1 p.m.
GREEK- West Virginia, If a Georgia Tech QB is suspended for a bowl game, will anyone place money on them to beat the spread? BATMAN- West Virginia FUNK- West Virginia, Steve Slaton are Pat White are too much for the Ramblin' Wreck.  PHILLY- West Virginia CLEATUS- West Virginia, Holy cow there are a lot of bowl games to predict.  It should help me in the rankings when I go 32-0. DEERE- SHADY- West Virginia, Mountaineers all the way. GUAPO- West Virginia OLD BAG- West Virginia, I STILL THINK THIS IS THE SCARIEST TEAM IN COLLEGE TO PLAY. SPAM- West Virginia XBOX- West Virginia
Mon., Jan. 1	Capital One	Orlando	Big Ten vs. SEC	Wisconsin vs. Arkansas
1 p.m.
GREEK- Arkansas, Probably the best non-BCS bowl game here folks. Since McFadden is the best college football player not wearing scarlet and gray (and Wisconsin hasn't really played, or for that matter, beaten, any team of consequence, I go with the Hogs. BATMAN- Arkansas, another easy pick FUNK- Wisconsin, Wisconsin pulled the shocker of last bowl season against Auburn .  They're returning to the scene of that crime, and they're going to win again on defense and pounding the ball with PJ Hill.  PHILLY- Wisconsin CLEATUS- Wisconsin DEERE- SHADY- Arkansas, When it comes down to it, Mcfadden is such a great RB GUAPO- Arkansas OLD BAG- Wisconsin, WISCONSIN WILL PROVE THEY BELONGED IN THE BCS OVER NOTRE DAME. SPAM- Wisconsin XBOX- Wisconsin
Mon., Jan. 1	Rose	Pasadena, Calif.	BCS vs. BCS	Michigan vs. Southern California
5 p.m.
GREEK- Michigan, How many M*&^igan students does it take to screw in a light bulb? Five, and each of them gets three credit hours for it! Ha, I bet you didn't know that the Greek was a comedian also, did you?! BATMAN- Michigan, Michigan ends season ranked #2 FUNK- Michigan, This was a very difficult choice.  Michigan wins this game on paper, but Lloyd Carr has been sucking hard in bowl games.  PHILLY- Michigan CLEATUS- Michigan, Michigan wins because they are the true #2 team in the nation.  DEERE- SHADY- Michigan, How pissed are they??  Losers. GUAPO- Michigan OLD BAG- Michigan, I HATE TO SAY IT BUT I THINK THEY ARE THE SECOND BEST TEAM OUT THERE. SPAM- Southern California XBOX- Southern California
Mon., Jan. 1	Fiesta	Glendale, Ariz.	BCS vs. BCS	Oklahoma vs. Boise State
8:30 p.m.
GREEK- Oklahoma, Oklahoma gets Peterson back for this game. As much as I love the BSU Smurf Turf, it's not gonna help them out in Arizona. BATMAN- Oklahoma, Oklahoma wins Fiesta Bowl FUNK- Oklahoma, Oklahoma somehow won the Big 12 without Adrian Peterson.  Now they're going to get him back for the Fiesta Bowl.  That's too bad for the Broncos.  PHILLY- Oklahoma CLEATUS- Oklahoma, Boise State finally gets a taste of what it's like to play a good team.  DEERE- SHADY- Oklahoma, They both suck but we both know who sucks the most. GUAPO- Oklahoma OLD BAG- Boise State, COMIC BOOK GUY SAYS "WORST BCS GAME EVER". SPAM- Oklahoma XBOX- Oklahoma
Tue., Jan. 2	Orange	Miami	BCS vs. BCS	Wake Forest vs. Louisville
8 p.m.
GREEK- Louisville, I think this game comes down to this one question: WWELD? (Translation: What Would El Guapo Do?) BATMAN- Louisville FUNK- Louisville, Louisville has a very talented team.  Wake Forest had a great season, but their conference really wasn't that great.  (Wait, shouldn't I be saying that about Louisville's conference?)  PHILLY- Louisville CLEATUS- Louisville DEERE- SHADY- Louisville, No one will be watching this game. GUAPO- Louisville OLD BAG- Louisville, COMIC BOOK GUY SAYS "SECOND WORST BCS GAME EVER". ARKANSAS AND WISCONSIN IS A BETTER GAME THAN THESE 2. SPAM- Wake Forest XBOX- Louisville
Wed., Jan. 3	Sugar	New Orleans	BCS vs. BCS	Notre Dame vs. LSU
8 p.m.
GREEK- LSU, Louisiana vs. Indiana…Louisiana wins in SO MANY ways, on and off the football field. I think you ALL know what I mean (if you don't, email me for more information). BATMAN- LSU, ND proves why they don't belong in a BCS bowl FUNK- LSU, This could be the most lopsided game of this bowl season.  PHILLY- LSU CLEATUS- LSU, Notre Dame is one level up from pond scum.  DEERE- SHADY- LSU, I think LSU will win by at least 30 GUAPO- LSU OLD BAG- LSU, DON'T GET ME STARTED ON NOTRE DAME. I'M JUST GLAD THE BCS REWARDS TEAMS WHO ARE TOO AFRAID TO JOIN A CONFERENCE. SPAM- LSU XBOX- LSU
Sat., Jan. 6	International	Toronto, Canada	Big East vs. MAC	Cincinnati vs. Western Michigan
noon
GREEK- Western Michigan, An international bowl game…that just doesn't sit with the Greek right. BATMAN- Cincinnati FUNK- Cincinnati, In a battle of Ohio versus Michigan, Ohio always wins.  PHILLY- Cincinnati CLEATUS- Cincinnati DEERE- SHADY- Cincinnati, Cinci was good, and that's why they lost there coach. GUAPO- Cincinnati OLD BAG- Cincinnati, WILL ANYONE IN TORONTO CARE ABOUT THIS GAME.....HOSERS. SPAM- Cincinnati XBOX- Western Michigan
Sun., Jan. 7	GMAC	Mobile, Ala.	Conference USA vs. MAC	Southern Mississippi vs. Ohio
8 p.m.
GREEK- Southern Mississippi, Nothing good has ever come out of Athens, Ohio, and the trend continues in this game. BATMAN- Southern Misissippi, SMU wins FUNK- Southern Mississippi,  In a battle of Ohio versus Mississippi, however, it's not as clear cut.  Congratulations to OU for making their first bowl appearance in 30-some years, though.  PHILLY- Ohio CLEATUS- Ohio DEERE- SHADY- Southern Mississippi, Ohio sucks this year. GUAPO- Southern Mississippi OLD BAG- Ohio, KIND OF A WEIRD APPETIZER TO THE BIG ONE. SPAM- Ohio XBOX- Ohio
Mon., Jan. 8	BCS title game	Glendale, Ariz.	BCS No. 1 vs. BCS No. 2	Ohio State vs. Florida
8 p.m.
GREEK- Ohio State, The most ironic part of this game? Urban Meyer is coaching in this game with 75% of the players that Ron Zook recruited. At least he was good for something, apparently (even if it wasn't coaching). BATMAN- Ohio State , perfect season for OSU FUNK- Ohio State , I grew up in Tennessee.  I didn't give a damn for fl*r*d* long before I didn't give a damn for m*ch*g*n.  I can't wait for this game! PHILLY- Ohio State CLEATUS- Ohio State , OSU 42 vs Florida 13.  Jim Tressel is hailed as the greatest coach in Ohio State football history.  Woody sits up in his grave to give Tressel a round of applause.  DEERE- SHADY- Ohio State, We'll win by at least 7, make the rest of the world realize that we need to go to a playoff system, which by the way will be implemented by the 2008 season. GUAPO- Ohio State OLD BAG- Ohio State , IF YOU HAVE TO LOBBY YOUR WAY INTO A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME THEN YOU DON'T BELONG. SPAM- Ohio State XBOX- Ohio State