Week 9: Championship Week

At last, we have finally made it to Championship Week. The standings aren't pretty, but just because something isn't pretty doesn't mean you stop doing it (ask Kane about that one). With Bowl Season looming, it's time for all of us to post a solid week to boost future reader turnout. Who am I kidding, we are the only ones that read this blog, so fuck it, let's do our usual thing.

Completely off topic, I hope all of you watched the UNC vs. Ohio St. game last night. I can honestly say that I enjoyed the entire game. The pace of the game was even more enjoyable. How can you not like people running up and down the floor, and each posession ended with a 3-pointer or dunk? If that game would've been the National Championship game, I would not have been dissapointed.

Also, it was just brought to my attention that Jack Ikegwuon was arrested last Saturday in DeKalb, Ill., and faces charges of residential burglary and criminal trespass. Just figures that it was in Dekalb. Read the whole story here:
http://www.jsonline.com/watch/?watch=2&date=11/30/2006&id=15076

Anyways, back to the task at hand. Standings and reasonings follow. Enjoy.

Standings after week 8 (as of November 30, 2006)
Me: 21-19
Jim: 17-23
Koontz:11-19
Kevin: 15-23-2
Mike: 0-5

Picks:
Me: Georgia Tech(-2.5), New Mex St. (-12), USC (-13), Florida (-2.5), Navy (-20)
Kevin: Georgia Tech (-2.5), Florida (-2.5), USC (-13), West Virginia (-10), Hawaii (-7.5)
Jim: Navy (-20), USC (-13), San Jose St. (-4), TCU (-17), Wake (+2.5)
Koontz: UCLA (+13), Louisville (-28), Florida (-2.5), Georgia Tech (-2.5), Hawaii (-7.5)

My Reasons:
1. Georgia Tech (-2.5) vs. Wake
This is the ACC Championship? How weak is that. I am still not sold on Wake as being a BCS team…no way. Therefore, by default, I have to go with the Yellow Jackets.

2. New Mexico St. (-12) vs. La Tech
Chase Holbrook, the Aggies quarterback, is the best kept secret in college football. He has thrown for over 4,000 yards this year, and has tossed 31 touchdowns against just 9 interceptions. Keep in mind he’s only a sophomore, but also keep in mind he plays for New Mexico St. All in all, he will have a field day against La Tech.

3. USC (-13) @ UCLA
Virtually a home game for both clubs. After watching USC dismantle Notre Dame last week, it’s only fair that they get a shot at Ohio St. if they win this game, which they will. The line for the BCS title game: Ohio St. (-3) vs. USC.

4. Florida (-2.5) vs. Arkansas
I don’t like the Gators, but they have more to play for, and are undoubtedly the better team here. Arkansas had a good run, but it all ends here.

5. Navy (-20) vs. Army
I didn’t really want to pick this game, but felt obligated to do so. When thinking about which of the two I respect more for what they do for our country in real life, it’s a hard to decipher. When thinking about which football team is better, it’s quite simple…Navy.

Kevin's Reasons:
So here I sit at 4:24pm on Tuesday. My work shift is about to end in approximately 6 minutes. However, I will not be punching out, for I need to write my picks of the week. I figure with the additional 20 minutes of work it will take me to pick from this weeks slate of games I can earn a few extra dollars (1/3rd of an hour at 6.80 per hour = $2.26). Wow I am getting paid an astounding 2 and a quarter dollars to write this crap. Too bad I have lost several hundred dollars on the picks themselves. I figure if I do this once a week, for the next 921,828.90 years, I will have raised an additional one million dollars in overtime work. Now how many people can claim to making a million dollars on gambling? Looks like I can. Anyhow onto the picks:

1. Georgia Tech (-2.5) vs. Wake
Wake has had a dream season. I am afraid it will end here in the acc championship game.

2. Florida (-2.5) vs. Arkansas
I thought Arkansas was pretty good. Not anymore.

3. USC (-13) @ UCLA
USC in a must win period.

4. West Virginia (-10) vs. Rutgers

I have said ever since the Louisville win over WV and the Rutgers win over Louisville that WV is going beat Rutgers, making all three one loss teams. Well West Virginia and Rutgers blew that. Either way WV wins this one.

5. Hawaii (-7.5) vs. Oregon St.
Oregon State gets jet lag and loses by 10.

Jim's Reasons:
Since Colt Brennan is the hot topic of late, I thought I'd give a little background on him. Colt Brennan was formerly at Colorado University, but then transferred to Hawaii after he was "dismissed from the team in Feb. 2004 after being accused of barging into a female student's room and making unwanted sexual advances. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and was acquitted of sexual assault but was convicted of first-degree criminal trespass and second-degree burglary, for which he was sentenced to seven days in jail and four years' probation." Luckily he only has two more years of probation left. June Jones let him walk on after a year at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, California. So there you have it ladies and gentlemen, give it up for the NCAA's future NCAA TD single season record holder Colt Brennan! On to the picks of hell.


1. Navy (-20) vs. Army
I have nothing to say about this game other than Army sucks and Navy is not that bad. Go Midshipmen.

2. USC (-13) @ UCLA
USC is good, probably better than we all think. Ohio State will have their hands full in the title game and Dwayne Jarrett is damn good. The last three games, USC has killed teams that were supposed to give them a run. Do you think that Oregon State game woke them up a little? USC wins easy, putting fear into the hearts of all Ohio State fans, and making all Michigan fans forever hate them for preventing what would have been forever known as "The Rematch." Remember Danny Farmer from UCLA? He was a great volleyball player if you don't remember that.

3. @ San Jose State (-4) vs. Fresno State
I'm just playing the odds here. San Jose State is at home, they are 7-3 against the spread, Fresno is 1-10. The Spartans are 7-4 overall and the Bulldogs are 4-7. Let's hope this works out. Pat Hill has a nice 'stache.

4. @ TCU (-17) vs. Air Force
Well since I picked Army/Navy, I thought Air Force should get thrown in their too. Beware of the Horned Frog is back. LaDainian Tomlinson was a great Horned Frog, he is a great NFL player. Texas Christian University, good luck in the postseason.

5. Wake Forest (+2.5) vs. Georgia Tech
I think the ACC sucks at football, but they sure did kick the shit out of the Big Ten this year in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge in basketball. I don't like either of these teams, but I didn't feel like picking the Big 12 game, the SEC game, or the Hawaii/OSU game, so I opted for this when I checked out the last 5 games of each team. Wake has beaten Maryland, FSU, BC, and UNC, and lost to VTech. While, GTech lost to Georgia, and beaten Duke, UNC, NC St, and Miami. Wake's resume is more impressive, well not really but I don't care. Fuck the ACC, both teams lost to Clemson, they are the true champ. Go Woody Dantzler.

I can't wait to pick the bowl games. I'm sure I'll do real well at that. It would be great if Florida, Oklahoma, and Louisville would lose this week.

Koontz' Reasons:
Because I will probably go 0-5, I feel that no explanations are needed. But I will have a "Lock of the Century."

1. UCLA (+13) vs. USC
2. Louisville (-28) vs. UCONN
3. Florida (-2.5) vs. Arkansas
4. Georgia Tech (-2.5) vs. Wake
5. Hawaii (-7.5) vs. Oregon St.
Lock of the Century

Fuck, No BYU. I wonder if the world would explode if BYU played Hawaii...

Let the games begin!

Week 8 Results: a not so happy thanksgiving

I know I sound like a broken record, but we suck at this. I actually managed to go 3-2 this week and pad my overall lead in the process. Kevin also went 3-2, while Jim went 1-4, and Koontz 0-5. That means a combined record of 7-13 for week 8. Good news, season is almost over. Bad news, there are only 17 games to pick from this week, which makes it that much more difficult (as if we need it to get anymore difficult). Furthermore, I always find Conf. Championship week a tough week to pick games, not a good sign.

Before I get to the standings, I wanted to give a few shot outs, much like they do on HOT 105.9:

1. Colt Brennan-Hawaii quarterback and Koontz' secret boyfriend. He has thrown 51 touchdowns and only 9 interceptions this season while leading Hawaii to a 10-2 record. He still has one regular season game this week against Oregon St., and the bowl-game to follow. He has a legitimate shot at 60 touchdown passes.

2. Rutgers-For completely ruining their season with a loss at Cincy. They demanded respect and got it after beating Louisville, only to lose it all the following week. Greg Schiano should go coach Miami if he wants to win a National Championship.

3. Locks of the year/century-We are 0-4 when we proclaim this statement. Enough said.

Now to the standings:

Standings after week 8 (as of November 27, 2006)
Me: 21-19
Jim: 17-23
Koontz:11-19
Kevin: 15-23-2
Mike: 0-5

Check back on Thursday! Or don't.

Week 8: Happy Thanksgiving

Welcome to the Thanksgiving edition of our weekly picking segment. This week I'm going to get straight to the point, and little to no analysis will go into the picks. Standings and picks follow:

Standings after week 7 (as of November 23, 2006)
Me: 18-17
Jim: 16-19
Koontz:11-14
Kevin: 12-21-2
Mike: 0-5

Me: Ohio (-3), North Carolina (-7), Boise St. (-2.5), TCU (-9.5), NC. St. (-2.5)
Kevin: Cincy (-4), Boise St. (-2.5), Ohio (-3), Nebraska (-14), Air Force (-10.5)
Jim: Boston College (-4), Cincy (-4), Boise St. (-2.5), Hawaii (-17.5), Mid Tenn(-8.5)
Koontz: BYU (-10.5), Hawaii (-17.5), Nevada (+2), Tennessee (-20), Oregon St. (-3)

My Reasonings:
1. Ohio (-3) @ Miami (OH)
This is simple...I pick Ohio every week, and Miami (OH) is not good at football.

2. North Carolina (-7) @ Duke
It is my personal opinion that the Tar Heels area much better football team than their record indicates. Also, Duke is not good at football.

3. Boise St. (-2.5) @ Nevada
Nevada is decent, I think Boise is better. Besides, they can't possibly ruin the perfect season at Nevada...or could they?

4. TCU (-9.5) @ Colorado St.
Jeff Ballard smokes pot, which was brought to my attention a couple weeks ago by Kevin. Colorado St. really misses Bradly Van Pelt.

5. NC St. (-2.5) vs. East Carolina
East Carolina lost to Rice last week, please tell me that NC St. can beat them.

Kevin's Reasonings:
Well early last week, I guaranteed a 5-0 weekend. The following picks are my guarantee to be locks come Saturday afternoon. So reheat some turkey and stuffing, sit back and watch yourself collect. Simply place 60 dollars on a 5 team parlay and watch it turn into $1,320. I feel no need for analysis, because these picks are just that good and will not lose...

*all wages are calculated on an assumption an average Culvers employee makes $7.50 per hour.

1. Cincinnati (-4) vs. Uconn
In the past, whenever “lock of the century” was applied to a game, the turnout was not so pretty. Well my friends I am breaking that curse. This is the lock of the century, no doubt about it. Cincinnati wins big and covers.

2. Boise St. (-2.5) @ Nevada

3. Ohio (-3) @ Miami Ohio

4. Nebraska (-14) vs. Colorado

5. Air Force (-10.5) @ UNLV

Jim's Reasonings:
This week's picks will be entered on Thanksgiving Day and will hopefully be decent for once. This week, I am going to spare everyone of any analysis, because I obviously am not an expert.

1. Boston College (-4) @ Miami
I like to call them BoCo, I don't like Miami, Doug Flutie 22 years ago beat them.

2. Cincinnati (-4) @ Connecticut
Remember the year that Wisconsin lost to Cincy and still won the Rose Bowl, why the hell can't that happen anymore. This sucks.

3. Boise State (-2.5) @ Nevada
Well I picked the opposite of Rutgers first loss last week, let's see if I can do it again.

4. @ Hawaii (-17.5) vs. Purdue
Last year Kevin and I won about 45 dollars when Wisconsin beat Hawaii the day after Thanksgiving. This year they will get back at the Big Ten.

5. @ Middle Tennessee State (-9.5) vs. Troy
Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Home of the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders.

Here's to trying not to suck.

Koontz' Reasonings:
1. BYU (-10.5) @ Utah

2. Hawaii (-17.5) vs. Purdue

3. Nevada (+2) vs. Boise St.
Nevada plays a Boise State team that hasnt performed well on the road. They are also coming off two consecutive 42-0 wins, I think they have a good shot at the upset bid.

4. Tennessee (-20) vs. Kentucky
Kentucky beat Louisana-monroe by 2. I'll take my chances on Tennessee by 20 at home.

5. Oregon St. (-3) vs. Oregon
I guess you could say Im a closet beaver fan...I really don't know why.


Let the games begin!

Lleyton Hewitt I Don't Like You

It is currently 12:45 am on Nov. 22nd right now, and I'm too lazy to do anything constructive, and too awake to go to bed, so I thought I'd come on here and share some thoughts on the day that was. My initial intention before logging in was to get some more work done on my new website, but the motivation at this exact point and time is at an all-time low.

For some reason, I watched a rediculous amount of TV today, much more than usual. I woke up at 9 am and began the normal routine...checked email, stocks, and did some Internet browsing, all the while watching a re-run of ER on TNT's "Prime Time in the Day Time." I've never really got why they call it that at 9 in the morning, it just doesn't seem right. Also, while looking for pictures, I found out there is actually an ER video game out. Not shitting. Oh yeah...and Judging Amy, although I've never watched a full episode...sucks.

Anyways, mid-day went pretty normal. Got some work done on the new site until my eyes went crazy (which they do everyday) from looking at the computer screen. I then settled in for episodes of King of Queens, Friends, and Yes, Dear while eating some beef and barley Campbell's soup. Then it was time for the 3 hour American Music Awards. I watched it off and on, but was unfortunately watching when the Pussycat Dolls performed that "loosen up my buttons" song. Hands down, worst live performance I have ever seen. I play music and by no means am I anywhere close to professional, but I was thoroughly disgusted with what I heard. It was one of those situations where it's soo bad you want to turn it off, but you just can't. I finally flipped to some bball and watched that off and on for the remainder of the evening. Marquette beat Duke...and...Wisconsin beat Delaware St. by only 12 or something. Whatever.

Now I'm here watching the WSOP, typing this blog, and for some reason thinking about Lleyton Hewitt and how he screwed me out of $75 dollars in last year's Australian which remains the worst sports bet in the history of sports betting and haunts me nearly every day of my life. How can I go on after that? Well I spent about 10 mintues writing this blog and another 15 looking for some pictures to put on it...so please appreciate the effort. But I'm gonna end this now, and probably fall asleep to whatever show is on A&E. Maybe I'll write another one tomorrow, but maybe not. But I have to finish it off with this:

A Couple of Things

1. I am happy to announce that my good friend Jim Macho has joined this very own blogging community for himself. I read his first two posts and was thoroughly entertained. You can check out his blog at
www.jimmacho.blogspot.com.

2. I have just begun developing a new website on "how to blog." I only have two pages up so far, so it's not much. When I get a little further along, I'll post the URL address on here so all of you can have a look and tell me what you think.

3. A new business venture is in the works. At this point, I don't want to give anything away, but it has potential and looks promising to me. I'm actually really excited about it. More information will be provided in the near future, and the pilot may be out this weekend. We shall see.

Week 7 Results: Want a shirt?

After 7 weeks of doing this, we are obviously not getting any better. Although I have taken the lead after a stellar 3-2 weekend, I have to give credit to Koontz for calling the Cincy upset over Rutgers. That game was my official "lock of the year." On that subject, whenever any of us says "lock of the year," whether in person or on this blog, that means pick against it. Also, I was very glad to see that the Michigan/OSU game lived up to the hype. I would've preferred a bit more drama at the end but I'll take it.

Well, as I said before, I went 3-2 this week to move over .500 on the season and into sole posession of first place. Koontz and Kevin both went 2-3, and Jim had a tough week going 1-4. Overall, a combined 8-12 on the week and 57-76-2 on the year...horrible. Please do not base your real money wagers on our weekly picks. You will be much better off closing your eyes and pointing at five random games per week. Thank you.

Standings after week 7 (as of November 20, 2006)
Me: 18-17
Jim: 16-19
Koontz:11-14
Kevin: 12-21-2
Mike: 0-5

Check back on Thursday for Week 8 picks.

Week 7 Picks: "A bucket of Piss"

I am really excited about this week of college football, and how can you not be? Ohio St. plays Michigan, and the Badgers are likely going to finish 11-1 under first year coach B squared. Instead of rambling on about the OSU/Mich game, let's get right into the picks.

First, the standings after week 6 (as of November 16, 2006)
Jim: 15-15
Me: 15-15
Koontz: 9-11
Kevin: 10-18-2
Mike: 0-5

Picks:
Me: Ohio (-4), Rutgers (-6.5), Arkansas (-14.5), Auburn (-3), Michigan (+7)
Kevin: West Virginia (-10.5), NC St. (-3.5), E. Carolina (-2.5), Oregon St. (-14.5), Rutgers (-6.5)
Jim: Rutgers (-6.5), Arkansas (-14.5), Kansas St. (+2.5), USC (-5.5), Ohio St. (-7)
Koontz: Wisconsin (-38), Cincy (+6.5), Ohio St. (-7), BYU (-26.5), Hawaii (-25)

My Reasonings:
1. Ohio (-4) vs. Akron (aka Lebron James' hometown)
Don't even like Ohio, I just think they are better than any other team in the MAC, which isn't saying much this season. I can't name one player on their team, yet I keep picking them. I think this is turning into a Jim/Rutgers relationship.

2. Rutgers (-6.5) @ Cincy
Speaking of Rutgers, I am picking them this week. How can you not like this line, especially when Rutgers is riding a major high and Cincy got the beat down last weekend from West Virginia. I see no reason why Rutgers doesn't win by double digits.

3. Arkansas (-14.5) @ Miss. St.
Once again, a no brainer. Even if I end up losing this one, I won't feel bad for picking it. I still have doubts about Arkansas, but they prove me wrong week after week. Doubt Corliss Williamson will go on the road to cheer on his alma mater. Don't know why I just brought up Corliss Williamson.

4. Auburn (-3) @ Alabama
I pick against Alabama and quarterback John Parker Wilson every single week, and I lose every single week. You'd think I would learn something, but I haven't. Here's to Auburn's defense injuring JPW.

5. Michigan (+7) @ Ohio St.
Just had to pick this game. I went back and forth on this one, and finally settled on Michigan to pull the upset with a sure controversy to follow. Winning score comes on a Steve Breaston punt return for a touchdown, I can already see it happening.

Kevin's Reasonings:

Summary of Kevin's weekend:

Thursday: Got into a fight with the wife, got piss drunk, don't remember going to bed.

Friday: Do homework all night. 1st time ever doing homework on a weekend, considering I am in the 17th grade, I find that impressive. Drink not a drop of beer.

Saturday: Watch football = go 0-4-1 in picks and lose $77.00 in bets. Then go to the Italian women's club to play bingo with the in-laws (someone shoot me). Still no beer drank.

Sunday: Lose Clinton Portis for season. Do more homework. Listen to voice mails from the weekend; sorry Jim. I saved it if you don't remember leaving it. Go to bed, the smell of urine comes to my nose. Apparently I was so drunk Thursday I pissed in a bucket by my bed. It made me gag throwing it out. Sadly the bucket of piss was the highlight of my weekend.


If you can't tell, I am in the mood for some serious beer drinking this weekend. Especially during the Ohio St. vs. Michigan game, perhaps a barrel here (no goonie)? I wrote this on Monday, by the time you all read it I will have taken three tests and wrote a 10 page paper plus another 5 page paper, and suffered through a sober Thursday. So I assume my need for beer will only rise by Friday, CU all at the Broux house.

Ok now my picks; sorry for the lack of analysis I gave myself ten minutes to do this and I'm already at 8. Too much bitching I suppose. Besides, not like my reasonings are ever correct.

1. WV (-10.5) vs. Pitt
West Virginia is going to beat Rutgers, this is just a step.

2. NC State (-3.5) vs. UNC
Great chance for UNC to get 2nd win of the season...doubt it though.

3. East Carolina (-2.5) vs. Rice
Rice is for Mexicans, Mexicans don't play much football.

4. Oregon State (-14.5) vs Stanford
Stanford won a game finally. Who the hell cares?

5. Rutgers (-6.5) vs Cincinnati
Mr. McNulty went to Rutgers. Alma mater means nourishing mother in latin.

*Side Note*
That shit was hilarious. I just hope people (other than us four) have the priviledge of reading what was just wrote. Good news, I plan on going to WW on saturday, I will definitely get drunk with you.


Jim's Reasonings:
Well after doing this for six weeks, I have realized one thing: we are terrible, do not use this website as a basis for real money bets. In other news the Badgers are about to go 11-1 (7-1) and not even share a Big Ten title. 7-1 wins the Big Ten at least 7 of 10 years, but of course not this season. Capital One Bowl and a faceoff against the Arkansas/Florida loser is potentially what UW will get. I chose not to pick the Badgers this week due to a line of 38. They could very well beat Buffalo something like 56-3, or give up some fluky touchdowns and win 41-21. Either way I'm staying away from that game this week, so I can lose on these picks instead.

1. Rutgers (-6.5) @ Cincinnati
Apparently I love Greg Schiano and Rutgers according to Sharp, so I am going to pick them. Cincy has played four ranked teams this year (VaTech, OhioSt, WVa, and L'ville) and two decent ones (Pitt and SFla) and lost them all except to South Florida. Rutgers is too good and will bring its undefeated season one step closer to losing a heartbreaker at WVa.

2. Arkansas (-14) @ Mississippi State
With the exception of an opening week blowout loss to USC, Arkansas has been perfect. Coming off of a big win versus Tennessee and going into a big game versus LSU next week, this could be a let down game, but I am sure it will not happen. The Bulldogs have won just one SEC game against 'Bama and that is not enough to convince me that they can hang with the Razorbacks. Go Pig Sooie.

3. Kansas State (+2.5) @ Kansas
The Wildcats, as much as I formerly disliked them, came up big against Texas last week and should have no problem winning this state rivalry game. Oh yeah and Kansas basketball lost to Oral freaking Roberts at home on Wednesday, so they don't even deserve to win this game. Anytime the #3 team in the nation loses at home to Oral Roberts, their football team loses in the same weekend. Look it up.

4. @ USC (-5.5) vs. Cal
I liked Cal, I really did. Then they decided to do what they do to me every year: botch the season. Every year, Cal will put some voice in my head that tells me that they are great, "pick me, pick me," they say. Every year I do it for awhile, and then they screw me over. This isn't limited to football either. Cal basketball is a son of a bitch. I thought Cal would roll Tennessee, they blew it, I gave up on them. Then the voices came back and I thought they would roll 'Zona last week, of course they blew it. Now it is time for the damn Golden Bears to take one on the chin to USC.

5. @ Ohio State (-7) vs. Michigan
How could I not pick this game. It is only the biggest regular season college game since well, OSU played Texas when they were 1 and 2 in the early season. But really this is about the most important regular season game in years. Ohio State is really, really good and will show that in this game. Troy Smith is Heisman, Chad Henne is a loser.

I wouldn't be surprised to lose the first three picks just on the fact that I picked road teams. I'm fairly glad my parents did not name me Billy Joe. No ACC this week. I don't like the University of Florida, Urban Meyer and Billy Donovan are both douche bags. Erin Andrews is really hot, I think she is a great sideline reporter.

*Side Note*
I agree whole heartedly with the above statements. Erin Andrews is extremely good looking, and she knows a lot about sports which makes her even hotter. And for some reason, whenever I think Kansas St., I think El Roberson. Anybody else?

Koontz' Reasonings:
1. Wisconsin (-38) vs. Buffalo
No way do the badgers have a let down here...a let down means not winning by more than 40. It's senior day and the last home game of the season, 50+ is a good chance.

2. Cincinnati (+6.5) vs. Rutgers
There has been an upset in the Big East the last two weeks and Cincinnati makes it 3 straight. 4 of their 5 losses have come against top 25 teams. This week they get one back.

3. Ohio State (-7) vs. Michigan
Well I have to pick someone and I hate Michigan so that's that...

4. BYU (-26.5) vs. New Mexico
I didn't get my picks done in time last week and it hurt me cause I would have picked my BYU team...BYU wins big again.

5. Hawaii (-25) vs. San Jose St.
They have scored 60+ in 4 of the last 5. San Jose St. isnt gonna know what hit them.

*Side Note*
First time all year someone picked 5 home teams. If intentional, perhaps a good strategy. If unintentional, weird that someone picked 5 home teams. We'll see if it works it for Koontz.

And...let the games begin so they can take off that OSU vs. Michigan countdown on ESPN. I can't believe they do that Monday Night Football too, it's sickening.

Week 6: The Horned Frog was just a Push

This week was once again horrible for us. We somehow went a combined 5-14-1, making it our second worse week of the season. Jim and I went 2-3, while Koontz went 1-4 and Kevin went 0-4-1. The good news is that we are all still bunched up at the top, with the exception of Kevin who week in and week out is doing a good job of making up no ground whatsover. The TCU game must have been a tough one to swallow as they failed to cover by just a 1/2 point. The better news is that Wisconsin won again, and is now 9th in the new BCS standings. Too bad we didn't play a tougher non-conference schedule and too bad we didn't have Michigan at home or we could be talking about the BCS Championship game. Also, I overlooked that the game between Miami (OH) and Buffalo that was originally cancelled has been played. Mike picked this game and had Miami (OH) (-8). Well they won by the score of 38-31, but failed to cover. Well, here are the updated standings.

Standings after week 6 (as of November 13, 2006)
Jim: 15-15
Me: 15-15
Koontz: 9-11
Kevin: 10-18-2
Mike: 0-5

Check back on Thursday for Week 7 picks.

Week 6: Just look at the Horned Frog

Coming down to the last few weeks of the season, and the title is still up for grabs. Glad to see that we all have a legitimate shot at winning this thing, whatever this thing is. I don't have much else to say, and I just want to get these picks on here before I get another text message from Kevin. Standings and picks follow.

Standings after week 5 (as of November 9, 2006)
Jim: 13-12
Me: 13-12
Koontz: 8-7
Kevin: 10-14-1
Mike: 0-4

Me: Louisville (-6), Boise St. (-14), Houston (-3), LSU (-18), Ohio St. (-23)
Kevin: Virginia Tech (-30.5), West Virginia (-18), TCU (-6.5), Boise St. (-14), Cal (-13.5)
Jim: Wisconsin (-1.5), Texas A&M (Even), Oregon St. (-2), Oklahoma St. (-16.5), Cal (-13.5)
Koontz: Louisville (-6) , Texas (-16), Wisconsin (-1.5), Northwester (+23), Air Force (+11.5)

My Reasonings:
1. Louisville (-6) @ Rutgers
After picking against Louisville last week and losing, it’s only right that I pick them to cover this week. Besides, I think Rutgers is overrated. I know Jim is in love with Rutgers and probably has a man-crush on Greg Schiano, and that gives me all the motivation I need to pick against the Scarlet Knights.

2. Boise St. (-14) @ San Jose St.
Boise St. needs to win and win big the rest of the way to have any hopes of a BCS bowl. Once they take the lead in this one, they will not sit on it. Zabransky and his fire-beard will throw at least 3 TD’s.

3. Houston (-3) @ SMU
I don’t know much about either team, I just know that Houston is better. Seeing as how they are better, I am willing to bet that they win by at least 3 points. Plus the Cougars handled a tough Tulsa team last week. Ask Jim about that one.

4. LSU (-18) vs. Alabama
I actually did some stats in this one. LSU has outscored opponents 274-36 at home this season. Couple that with the fact I hate quarterbacks that use 3 names (e.g. John Parker Wilson and John David Booty), and LSU crushes the Crimson Tide.

5. Ohio St. (-23) @ Northwestern
Ohio St. will not have another let down game, I guarantee it. They will get back to form against a horrible Northwestern defense. This is Troy Smith’s last chance to pad his heisman stats, and he will take advantage of it. On a heisman note, it seems as if John Stocco’s heisman dream has come to an end because of a shoulder injury, and you don’t know how much it pains me to say that.

Kevin’s Reasonings:
1. Virginia Tech (-30.5) vs. Kent St.
Kent State is a 5-3 team. Of the 5 teams they have defeated, they have a combined record of 14-35 this season. Of Kent State’s 3 losses their opponents have a combined 9-20 record. That makes a grand total of 23-55 for Kent States opponents. What does this all mean? That is a difference of 32 more losses than wins. 32 is how many points Virginia Tech will win by……..Ron Mexico.

2. West Virginia (-18) vs. Cincinnati
Honestly, the West Virginia Mountaineer is one of the greatest mascots in all of sports. I truly think he could challenge a Viking to a drinking contest and possibly win. This given the fact the contest takes place at high altitudes and the drink of choice is Coors light, a taste born high in the Rockies. So I guess the Mountaineer may need a few handicaps. The mountaineer football team needs no handicaps vs. the Bearcats as WV looks to bounce back after the tough loss to Louisville.

3. TCU (-6.5) @ New Mexico

(The Horned Frog Speaking: "Jeff Ballard, turns in another all around performance beating New Mexico. After the game, I will get him high as a kite on some bad ass chronic I scored."

4. Boise St. (-14) @ San Jose State
Boise State is a perfect 9-0 this season. They have a high powered offense, to go along with a strong defense. Jared Zabransky and Ian Johnson are too much for San Jose to handle.

5. California (-13.5) @ Arizona
California is #8 in the nation, and on an 8 game win streak. Their only loss came in the first game of the season to a solid Tennessee team. Each of their 8 wins following have been by at least a touchdown. Cal should have no problem winning by at least two touchdowns come Saturday. I just hope they aren’t looking forward to USC the week after.

*Side note*
Where the hell did you get that picture of a horned frog?

Jim’s Reasonings:
After a two week high came a two week low, now it is time to get back on track. Last week's lessons are as follows: don't pick MAC and Conf. USA games with teams I don't know much about, don't count on anything in the ACC, and don't throw cups at urinals. Onto this weeks (shitty) picks.

1. Wisconsin (-1.5) @ Iowa
All week long in the Wisconsin State Journal (where I get my lines), the line for this game was listed simply as OFF. Now this is due to the injury of the great John "Heisman" Stocco, with his status unknown for the week, the Glantz-Culver oddsmakers did not know what to do. Luckily, I found this line on nine.com. In other news, the Badgers are 7-1-1 against the spread, while the Hawkeyes are 1-8, just thought you should know that. Badgers complete a 7-1 Big Ten season in style, with or without Mr. Stocco. Good luck to those Badger seniors who have never beaten Iowa.

2. Texas A & M (Even) vs. Nebraska
My first Pk game of the gambling season, and I think it's a great buy. This pick was made official by using the ever failing Transitive Property. The Aggies won at Ok. St. by one, the Huskers lost at Ok. St. by 12, so therefore, the Aggies should win by 13? Doubtful, but all I need is a one point win.

3. Oregon State (-2) @ UCLA
The Beavs were my big winner last week, so I'm going to stay on the bandwagon and hope for the best. UCLA is solid, but Oregon State should win without too much trouble in Pasadena. OSU is on a 4 game win streak and UCLA is on a 4 game slide.

4. Oklahoma State (-16.5) vs. Baylor
Until this year, I always had the same thoughts about Baylor and Rutgers, dumb name, shitty team. Rutgers surprised this year, and Baylor still is not that good. Rashaun Woods 7 td's OSU 2003. That's the coolest thing OSU has ever done.

5. Cal (-13.5) @ Zona
Hopefully Cal doesn't look ahead too much to USC next week and pulls out this game in the desert. 2 Pac 10 games in one week…amazing.

Badger Basketball Final Four Bound this year.
I will score 2 points in my BBall

Koontz’ Reasonings:
1. Louisville (-6) @ Rutgers
A trip to the National Title game is theirs for the taking.

2. Texas (-16) @ Kansas St.
They can't be to happy about being the best team to be left out of the National Title game. I'm expecting them to put up a big number this week.

3. Wisconsin (-1.5) @ Iowa
If a Northwestern RB can have a big day against Iowa, I'm afraid to see what P.J Hill is gonna do to them.

4. Northwestern (+23) vs. Ohio St.
They have played well lately and I'm sure that they will bring it against the #1 team in the country.

5. Air Force (+11.5) vs. Notre Dame
I really hate Notre Dame, join the Big Ten you pussies.

Let the games begin!

Week 5: Jim didn't throw the cup after all

Overall, week 5 was a good week for us. We went a combined 13-7, our first over .500 week in quite awhile. Koontz had an undefeated week going 5-0, and has crept up to the top of the standings, while Kevin and I went 3-2 and Jim brought up the rear going 2-3. As for myself, I was happy with the results this week other than Ohio failing to cover by a half a point.

Now I know last week we had some JoePa comments, and after the events that took place during Saturday's game and the surgery that ensued, it's good to know that he is in fact alive. On a serious note, glad to hear the surgery went well. Jim and I were at the game, and neither of us saw the play that caused the injury or JoePa getting carted off the field. However, I saw the hit on TV and it didn't look good. Also, Juice Williams got hurt this weekend as did heisman hopeful John Stocco. I'm starting to think this blog has the famous "Madden jinx." If we talk about you, you will probably get hurt. Just something to think about. Anyways, here are the overall standings after week 5.

Standings after week 5 (as of November 7, 2006)
Jim: 13-12
Me: 13-12
Koontz: 8-7
Kevin: 10-14-1
Mike: 0-4

Check back Thursday for this week's picks.

Week 5

If there was ever a week to make a move up in the standings, last week was that week. However, none of us did so as we went a combined 5-15. I think this week could be very similar to last week, which is both good and bad. Good because one of use could make a big move, bad because I know that move isn't going to be made by me. I had a tough time picking games this week, and it seems to get tougher every week now. I find that it's rather easy to pick the winner of a game, but rather difficult for that winner to cover the spread. Seems to be a common theme for all of us. Anyways, here it goes for week 5.

Standings after week 4 (as of November 2, 2006)
Jim: 11-9
Me: 10-10
Kevin: 7-12-1
Koontz: 3-7
Mike: 0-4

Week 5 Picks:
Me: West Virginia (Even), Wisconsin (-7), Ohio (-6.5), Arkansas (-2.5), Georgia Tech (-5)
Kevin: Minnesota (-6), USC (-28), Ohio St. (-24), BC (-3.5), Wisconsin (-7)
Jim: Wisconsin (-7), Tulsa (-3.5), W. Michigan (-13.5), Oregon St. (-2), BC (-3.5)
Koontz: Louisville (Even), Wisconsin (-7), Northwestern (+20), Illinois (+24), BYU (-17)

My Reasons:
1. West Virginia (Even) @ Louisville
I'm taking West Virginia in this Thursday night Big East showdown. Winner of the game has a good chance of getting to the National Championship. I really didn't want to pick this game, but I did. Louisville hasn't had to play anybody really good thus far, so the injury of Michael Bush hasn't hurt them too much. That is until this game. No Bush=No BCS for Louisville.

2. Wisconsin (-7) vs. Penn St.
I haven't been impressed with Penn St., and frankly, I think Anthony Morelli sucks. The Badgers will not fail to cover two games in a row, I guarantee it.

3. Ohio (-6.5) @ E. Michigan
Every once in awhile, I have to pick a MAC game. Ohio has won 4 in a row coming in, while E. Michigan is 1-7 on the year. Hey...at least the beat Toledo a few weeks back.

4. Arkansas (-2.5) @ South Carolina
There are several reasons not to pick this game:
1. SEC night games always scare me.
2. This is a potential look ahead game for Arkansas as they have Tennessee next week.
The fact that there are reasons not to take Arkansas is the entire reason why I took them. Reverse psychology or something.

5. Georgia Tech (-5) @ NC St.
I'm back on the Georgia Tech bandwagon. Last time I took them, they failed to cover, but I'm trying again. How can I go against the man-child Calvin Johnson? I can't.

Kevin's Reasons:
Well last weekend was awful, at least Marshall covered. I think it's time to get serious; the last few weeks have been bad for me, so here it is my best shot at 5-0. I am beginning to wonder which will happen first for me, a 5-0 week or a 0-5 week.

1. Minnesota (-6) vs. Indiana
Ok, Indiana had a phenomenal game last week against Michigan State. Minnesota had a horrid game against Ohio St. Minnesota however will bounce back after its blowout loss to the Buckeyes. I don't see Indiana as that good of a team; neither do I see Minnesota as one. I think Minnesota at home will find enough to cover and win this game.

2. USC (-28) @ Stanford
Stanford thinks their so damn smart. Well maybe they could actually figure out how to win a game. Maybe they will by seasons end but it won't be this one.

3. Ohio St. (-24) @ Illinois
I hate "Juice" Williams.

4 Boston College (-3.5) @ Wake
Well Wake fucked me over pretty bad last week. Their avg. margin of victory going into last weeks game was only 8 pts. If you recall they were 8 pt favorites. I was aware of this but figured they were a solid lock. Well that turned our great, so its time for them to lose this week to BC. Should be close but BC wins, I hope.

5. Wisconsin (-7) vs. Penn St.
I seriously think Vegas needs to start drawing up odds on the time and or place of death of Penn. State's coach Joe Paterno. I am betting it happens during the post game press conference where upon being asked a question, he sits silently and motionless in his chair for a five minute period, until someone finally decides to take his pulse and realizes he is dead. Autopsy shows he in fact has actually been dead for the past 6 months. Unexplainable yet not surprising.

*Side Note on Kevin's comments*
-The "Juice" is on the loose
-Tiger Woods went to Stanford, he's a winner, perhaps they could learn something from him?
-JoePa has been dead for much longer than 6 months
-Did anyone see that clip when JoePa ran after the refs at halftime of a game? Whichever battery they had in his body should be coined "The Battery of America"

Jim's Reasons:
Well last week sucked as I and everyone else expected. One of my ever popular rules did not work out in my favor. The "Wisconsin Always Covers Rule" beat me for the first time since the picks began, which makes this week harder for me, since now apparently Wisconsin does not always cover. I billed Wake Forest as my lock of the week to people I talked to Friday night and that did not turn out too well either. I should have jumped the Rutgers and Arkansas bandwagons a week earlier, as they won without covering. In other news, Temple won, glad I didn't pick against them, and the "Temple Rule" is officially dead. This week may be just as hard as last week, not good times.

1. Wisconsin (-7) vs. Penn State
I know they didn't cover last week, and this is a trap game with Iowa coming up, but I have to pick them, I do every week. Remember to do as JoePa says, "be respectful, before, during and after the game."

2. Tulsa (-3.5) @ Houston
I believe this is my first Conf. USA pick since we started the picks, and if it doesn't go well it may be my last. This game is a first place/second place battle and should be close, but I think Tulsa comes away with a win in the game and in the poll on Least Likely Road Trip City in America.

3. Western Michigan (-13.5) vs. Miami (Ohio)
The Broncos are 6-2 and have lost to the MAC East Division leader Ohio, and frisky Indiana, while Miami is 1-8 and has beaten only Buffalo. To me this line seems a little low, but I'll take it as it is. In other news, former Miami QB and Super Bowl Champion, Ben Roethlisberger is terrible.

4. Oregon State (-2) vs. Arizona State
Let's hope there is no letdown game for the Beavers against ASU. After OSU's big win last week against USC, I don't see them having too much trouble with a middle of the pack Sun Devil team at home. When Jake Plummer was at Arizona State, I was a fan of him, when he was on the Cardinals, I liked him also, when he went to the Broncos, he became a douche bag.

5. Boston College (-3.5) @ Wake Forest
My shakiest pick of the week comes as a classic "Revenge Pick," as Wake screwed me last week. I had a few other ideas for the pick, but settled on this, hoping for some sweet revenge.

No Texas A & M this week, even though they have been treating me well, and also no SEC which makes me happy. I hope WVU beats L'ville on Thursday. In NBA news, I predict the Bucks will win 42 games, get the 7th seed in the playoffs, lose in the first round, and spread Christmas cheer all season long with their new green and red uni's.

*Side Note on Jim's comments*
-I think Joe Paterno officially changed his name to JoePa
-JoePa is actually a puppet controlled by Penn St. Boosters
-Ben Roethliswhocareshowtospelltherest does suck
-Jake Plummer is in fact a douche bag, put in Jay Cutler
-I am a big fan of the new Bucks uni's as well

Now onto Koontzy woontzy's picks. And yes, I am gay.

Koontz's Reasons:
1. Louisville (Even) vs. West Virginia
Pitsnoggle isn't playing, I'll take Louisville.

2. Northwestern (+20) @ Iowa
I should have picked them last week so I'm picking them this week.

3. Illinois (+24) vs. Ohio St.
I may be a little crazy but...Upset of the year, maybe even of the decade. Illinois over Ohio State.

4. BYU (-17) @ Colorado St.
Im gonna ride BYU til I lose.

5. Wisconsin (-7) vs. Penn St.
Screwed all of us last weekend, but I talked to Stocco and he said they will have no problem covering.

*Side Note on Koontz's comments*
-Believe it or not, Pittsnogle is not working in the coal mines, he is actually in the NBA
-If I hear the phrase the "Juice is on the loose" or "Squeeze the Jreferringfering to Illinois quarterback Juice Williams one more time, I will kill someone.
-Stocco for Heisman

As always, let the games begin!

Ocho Cinco Interview

I'm back with the newest Chad Johnson interview. Sadly, he hasn't had as many funny interviews this year as he did last year, but I found a good one here. I don't really need to say much else other than watch the video. It's hilarious.