Ten (seven) Questions I Can’t Wait to be Answered this Weekend

How would you like to be a Texas Longhorn fan today? You need Oklahoma to beat Oklahoma State because if OU loses, Texas Tech takes the Big XII South tiebreaker over Texas. But, if Oklahoma wins too big, than OU will certainly leapfrog Texas in the BCS, which would be the tiebreaker for the three-way tie that would result. Confused? You can thank the presidents of our fine universities for that.

Here’s the weather forecast:

1.) Will Georgia Tech have enough surprises with the triple option to upset Georgia? Georgia Tech is coming off a loss to North Carolina and has wins over two I-AA on their resume. Still, it will be interesting to see Coach Paul Johnson making his Tech debut in the rivalry game. And if you’re a Buckeye- it will be a good opportunity to scout your potential bowl opponent. I like Georgia to win.

2.) Can Auburn scrape together enough points to stay close with Alabama? Don’t count on the offense to do it. Auburn has been one of the biggest disappointments of the 2008 season and they’re going to need turnovers, short fields, and points from the defense to stay close. Don’t expect it to happen though- I like ‘Bama big at home.

3.) Can Florida State re-ignite former glory to beat their rival? If they’re going to, they’ll need an inspired performance from the defense. FSU has shown glimpses this year of the kind of dominating defense they used to have, and there have also been sparks on offense. They’re getting quality yards on the ground from running backs Antone Smith and Jermaine Thomas. The key will be a mistake-free game from QB Christian Ponder. In Florida State’s three losses, Ponder has thrown seven interceptions, vs. only six the other eight games.

Because this game is in Tallahassee, I like Florida State to cover (15.5) but lose to the unstoppable force that is the Gators right now.

4.) Will Baylor take advantage of the beaten ego that is Texas Tech? Not bloody likely. Mike Leach doesn’t seem to be the mopey type of coach that loses rebound games. Baylor is decent but I like Texas Tech to rebound nicely.

5.) Will Oregon State clinch the Rose Bowl berth with a win at home over Oregon tonight? The Buckeyes are pulling for Oregon big- a win by the Ducks gets Ohio State into the BCS. I like Oregon to win because of a quality rushing attack and no Jacquizz Rogers for Oregon State. Plus two Pac-Ten teams in the BCS sounds filthy.

6.) Will Oklahoma clinch their spot in the Big XII title game vs. Oklahoma State? Oklahoma was very emotional in dominating Texas Tech at home last week. They’re going to be challenged to be up emotionally once again on the road against a very good Okie State team. The Cowboys are the forgotten team in the Big XII South this year, and will be looking to finish their regular season off on a high note. It’s awfully hard to pick against Oklahoma after watching them last week, but I’m hopeful Oklahoma State can keep it close.

7.) Will Notre Dame cover the 29 point spread against USC? Not win, just cover the spread. They’ll only cover the spread if they can hold USC to 28, because I don’t think they’re going to score on USC. I like USC big, like 40+ big.

You’re welcome.