Week 5 and September is in the Books: Who's #1?

Here's My Top 25 after Week 5 of the 2008 College Football season:

1. 1. LSU Tigers (4-0, 2-0 SEC) - They are the defending BCS champs and they have handled all teams to date in '08, with a new QB and only nine starters (5 offense, 4 defense) back this season. Next up: Bye Week, then at #13 Florida (3-1, 1-1 SEC) on 10/11 in Week 7.
   
2. Oklahoma Sooners (4-0) - Raining top team from the Big 12 Conference, looking for first BCS Title Game, since 2004 season. Next up: at Baylor (2-2) in Big 12 opener this week!


3. Alabama Crimson Tide (5-0, 2-0 SEC) - Impressive start for coach Nick Saban in year 2 at Bama, how long can the magic last? Next up: vs. Kentucky (4-0), who face a hot
   Bama team in their SEC opener on Saturday.


4. Texas Longhorns (4-0) - The Longhorns are showing they appear to be a strong team with a veteran QB at the helm. Next up: at Colorado (3-1) in Big 12 opener.


5. Missouri Tigers (4-0) - Sorry, I can't reward coach Gary Pinkel's team too much, until they get through the Big 12 Conference... lead by super QB Chase Daniel, a senior. Next up: at Nebraska (3-1) in Big 12 opener this week!


6. Penn State Nittany Lions (5-0, 1-0 Big Ten) - This could be a Cinderella end to a storied tenure under Joe Pa in '08! Next up: at Purdue (2-2), who open Big Ten play at home vs. Nittany Lions.


7. USC (2-1, 0-1 Pac 10) - The Trojans were a disappointment in their Pac 10 opener on the road at unranked Oregon State (2-2, 1-1 Pac 10) in Week 5, but other upsets will give them a little light at the end of the tunnel to work their way back. Next up: vs. #21 Oregon (4-1, 2-0 Pac 10).


8. Brigham Young Cougars (4-0, 1-0 MWC) - Clearly, the Cougars carry the top non-BCS program banner in '08. Next up: at Utah State (1-3, 1-0 WAC) on Friday.


9. Georgia Bulldogs (4-1, 1-1 SEC) - Tough schedule found their first bump with home loss to now #3 Alabama (5-0, 2-0 SEC). Next up: Bye week, with Tennessee (1-3, 0-2 SEC) up in Week 7 on 10/11.


10. Ohio State (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten) - Shaky start in '08 with blow out loss at USC in Week 3, but the Buckeyes are still the most consistent contender in the Big Ten. Next up: at #16 Wisconsin (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) in huge Big Ten test for Buckeyes.


11. Auburn Tigers (4-1, 2-1 SEC) - The Tigers are a half game back behind LSU and Alabama in the SEC West... key road test this week in SEC. Next up: at #18 Vanderbilt (4-0, 2-0 SEC) on Saturday.


12. Utah Utes (5-0, 2-0) - The MWC is carrying the non-BCS conference torch in '08, after the WAC carried it the past two seasons. Next up: vs Oregon State (2-2, 1-1 Pac 10)... can they keep the role of Galieth vs. Beavers, who earned it vs. USC?


13. Florida Gators (3-1, 1-1 SEC) - Coach Urban Meyer will have to get things cleaned up as Gators fall at home vs. unranked Ole Miss (3-2, 1-1 SEC) in Week 5. Next up: at Arkansas (2-2, 0-1 SEC).


14. South Florida Bulls (5-0) - Off to strong start holding the banner for the Big East right now. Next up: vs. Pittsburgh (3-1, 1-0 Big East), as USF opens conference play in '08.


15. Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-0) - Hard to give the Red Raiders and coach Mike Leach to high of marks with a schedule of two FCS opponents and zero BCS conference opponents to date. Next up: at Kansas State (3-1) in Big 12 opener for both teams.


16. Wisconsin Badgers (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) - Positive first half in Ann Arbor vs. Michigan (2-2, 1-0) didn't turn out well as Badgers open '08 in the Big Ten with a loss 25-27. Next up: vs. #10 Ohio State (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten) in home opener in the Big Ten.


17. Virginia Tech (4-1, 2-0 ACC) - The Hokies opened the season with a disappointing loss at ECU (3-2, 1-0 C-USA). but is moving forward now. Next up: vs. Western Kentucky.


18. Vanderbilt Commodores (4-0, 2-0) - The Commodores under coach Bobby Johnson are off to a very good start in '08. Next up: vs. #11 Auburn (4-1, 2-1 SEC)


19. Boise State Broncos (3-0) - With only three game through September, the Broncos have a long road ahead in the final two months of the regular season. Next up: vs. Louisiana State (2-1) in WAC opener on Wednesday 10/1.


20. Fresno State Bulldogs (3-1) - The Bulldogs only loss is against a Big Ten school (Wisconsin) at home, with all three wins coming on the road (Rutgers, Toledo and UCLA). Next up: vs. Hawaii (1-3, 0-1) to open WAC play in '08.


21. Oregon Ducks (4-1, 2-0 Pac 10) - The Pac 10 race is in the Ducks hands with two down and seven games to go. Next up: at #7 USC (2-1, 0-1 Pac 10) in huge game on Saturday.


22. Kansas Jayhawks (3-1) - The Jayhawks didn't weather the first four tests of '08, as they did in their Cinderella '07 season. Next up: at Iowa State (2-2) in the Big 12 opener for both schools.


23. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (3-1, 1-0 ACC) - The Demon Deacons were knocked off in Week 5 by Navy (3-2), after three good early tests. Next up: Bye week, with ACC test vs. Clemson (3-2, 1-1 ACC) in Week 7 on 10/9.


24. Connecticut Huskies (5-0, 1-0 Big East) - The Big East has taken some knocks in '08, so far, but the Huskies are moving up the ladder as they are in conference play now. Next up: at North Carolina (3-1, 1-1 ACC) for a dangerous road test in Week 6.


25. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (4-0, 1-0 C-USA) - Coach Todd Graham has the Golden Hurricane off to a good start in his third season. Next up: vs. Rice (4-0, 2-0 C-USA), who are ahead of Tulsa currently in the West Division standings.

Teams Out of the Top 25 after Week 5 - TCU Horned Frogs (4-1, 1-0 MWC), Clemson Tigers (3-2, 1-1 ACC) and East Carolina Pirates (3-2, 1-1 C-USA),

Teams to Watch: Oklahoma State Cowboys (4-0), Northwestern Wildcats (5-0, 1-0 Big Ten), Ball State (5-0, 2-0 MAC) and Kentucky (4-0), who are the remaining undefeated non-Top 25 teams in FBS, after Week 5.

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Northwestern upsets Iowa at Kinnick to open season 5-0

Wow, what a season for the Northwestern Wildcats (5-0, 1-0 Big Ten) for the season. You have to go back to 1962 for a start anything like this for the Wildcats.

But, what about Iowa?

After opening 3-0 with a Cy-Hawk victory over Iowa State at home. Iowa was looking forward to Homecoming vs. Northwestern.

But, the road has gone south for the Iowa Hawkeyes (3-2, 1-0 Big Ten). The QB competition has been settled, but the past two weeks have not gone Iowa's way on the scoreboard, with back to back losses at Pitt and vs. Northwestern, in the Big Ten opener.

Next Up: the Hawkeyes face Michigan State (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten) on the road. Facing a MSU team, who are on a four game winning streak, since losing opener of the season at Cal, ouch!

The Hawkeyes vs. Northwestern offered up 5 turnovers and a short field much of the day for Northwestern. Iowa had a final opportunity first and goal at the Northwestern 8, with under 2 minutes in the game... only to not hit paydirt.

A tall order for Iowa this week in East Lansing. Progress may be there, compared to last year, but the fan base in Iowa City is going to get a little restless after 2 down seasons in '06-'07 (12-13) and a 7-5 season in '05.

Final from Saturday -

Northwestern 22
Iowa 17

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Homecoming Saturday: Iowa hosts Northwestern at Kinnick

Prediction:

Iowa Hawkeyes 27

Northwestern Wildcats 16

Battle of two improving Big Ten teams in the conference opener. Iowa won at Evanston last year, but the Hawkeyes allowed the Wildcats to get taste of victory the previous visit. It should be a classic chess match between coaches.

Purdue is the only Big Ten team not playing a Big Ten opener. Joe Tiller's Boilermakers travel to South Bend for a game with Norte Dame.

Minnesota at Ohio State - Glen Mason will be on hand to watch his alma mater and call the game of his former team on the Big Ten Network. Irony, Mason is honorary captain for today's game.

Wisconsin at Michigan - Coach Rich Rodriquez gets his official welcome to the Big Ten Conference as Bret Bielema's Badgers travel to Ann Arbor with the showdown with Michigan.

Michigan State at Indiana - This could be a dangerous game for the Spartans, if IU can slow down Jovon Ringer and the MSU ground attack. IU is coming off loss to Ball State and could feel the pressure, if they don't get a good early start in the Big Ten.

Illinois at Penn State - This is the biggest national game, with both teams appearing to go in opposite directions. The Fighting Illini played in a BCS game last year, but have some chinks in the armor entering '08, while PSU appears to be the best option to give Ohio State a run for the Big Ten crown this year.

Big Ten standings

Team Conference/All Games

Minnesota 0-0 4-0

Northwestern 0-0 4-0

Penn State 0-0 4-0

Wisconsin 0-0 3-0

Iowa 0-0 3-1

Michigan State 0-0 3-1

Ohio State 0-0 3-1

Illinois 0-0 2-1

Indiana 0-0 2-1

Purdue 0-0 2-1

Michigan 0-0 1-2

Well, it's time to head to Iowa City and Kinnick Stadium for the kickoff of the 2008 Big Ten season! On Iowa!

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Cedar Rapids High School Football: Washington vs. Kennedy

Last year, two of the better games ever witnessed were match ups between these two east-side rivals. The regular season game at Kingston Stadium was a 29-27 last second win by Washington. Then, the playoff game between Washington and Kennedy was just as memorable. Both games, Washington scored late in the game to seize victory from the hands of Kennedy. Washington won the playoff game 34-28 in the 4A match up.

It could be another great game at Kingston Stadium tonight. Both teams are 3-1 on the season.
Washington's all-state WR Keenan Davis missed last week's win 41-14 vs. Linn-Mar with a leg injury.

The Gazette reports Davis is "doubtful" tonight, so it should even more of an interesting match up. Coach Tony Lombardi of Washington should have the Warriors ready. Kennedy will be too.

Go Warriors! Warriors by 1.

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Emotion plays a huge role in College Football

The Oregon State Beavers are up 14-0 on #1 USC Trojans at home with around 3 minutes left in the first half. Emotion is a huge role in college football and playing at home is often completely different, than playing on the road.

Penn State clocked Oregon State at home. USC is facing a real test in the Pac 10 opener on the road... wow!

Now up 21-0 at halftime after Oregon State capitalizes on USC fumble.

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Who wins the Big Ten in Football in '08?

It's not going to be an easy race for anyone in the Big Ten in '08. The role emotion plays in College Football will be tested in the Big Ten, Pac 10 and throughout the nation in the BCS and FCS this year.

The preseason magazines basically called Ohio State a consensus pick in '08. No one picked anyone other than Ohio State.

Can anyone really go against Ohio State, when they have owned the Big Ten of late? Is Penn State really ready to slide back in on the top of the Big Ten ladder? Unlike 2005, Penn State travels to Columbus to play this year. Joe Pa hasn't had success in Columbus. Actually, in the past 5 years... Penn State only has one win vs. Ohio State (2005).

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (7-1 in '07) - Tall order for Jim Tressel and the Buckeyes, but they are still the team to beat in the Big Ten.

2. (tie) Penn State Nittany Lions and Iowa Hawkeyes (both 4-4 in '07) - I'll get a lot of static for going with Iowa, but Iowa has a favorable record with both PSU and Wisconsin playing at Kinnick in '08. PSU looks solid entering '08, but how will they handle the pressure as the season unfolds?

4. Wisconsin Badgers (5-3 in '07) - Bret Bielema has not won a Big Ten title, after two years of head coaching. He has some good play makers, but its a long Big Ten season.

5. (tie) Michigan State Spartans and Northwestern Wildcats (both 3-5 in '07) - The Spartans are a popular choice to move up the Big Ten ladder with second year coach Mark Dantonio, while the Wildcats bring an experienced team a key spots on the roster in coach Pat Fitzgerald's third year.

7. Purdue Boilermakers (3-5 in '07) - Coach Joe Tiller is a lame duck led by a senior QB Curtis Painter, but Hope will have to wait for the future... that is coach Danny Hope, who will replace Joe after returning to West Lafayette after five years as head coach at Eastern Kentucky. He will coach offensive line in '08.

8. (tie) Michigan Wolverines and Illinois Fighting Illini (both 6-2 in '07) - Both programs will have some rebuilding to do. Michigan is rebuilding under new coach Rich Rodriquez and his new offensive philosophy. Illinois lost star RB Rashard Mendenhall and and some key players on defense... look for coach Ron Zook to be in a rebuilding mode at times in '08.

10. Minnesota Gophers (0-8 in '07) - The Gophers will spoil someones Saturday this year... coach Tim Brewster's team isn't likely going to go down the same win less again path in '08.

11. Indiana Hoosiers (3-5 in '07) - Remarkable season in '07, with the late coach Terry Hoeppner's replacement Bill Lynch leading the Hoosiers to their first bowl game, since the 1993 Independence Bowl bid. Don't look for another Cinderella season in '08.

The Big Ten should be better in bowl action in '08, but the conference will take some knocks again as the season unfolds in '08.

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Cidsports' Top 25 after Week 4

My Top 25 picks after Week 4 games:

1. USC Trojans (2-0) - A bye week for Week 4, with a Thursday night game this week, when the Trojans open Pac 10 play on Thursday at Oregon State (1-2, 0-1 Pac 10).


2. Georgia Bulldogs (4-0, 1-0 SEC) - The Bulldogs took care of business in Tempe beating Arizona State (2-2, 1-0 Pac 10) 27-10. Next Up: vs. #8 Alabama (4-0, 1-0 SEC) at home.


3. Florida Gators (3-0, 1-0 SEC) - The Gators took care of business 30-6 at then #21 Tennessee (1-2, 0-1 SEC) to knock the Volunteers out of the Top 25. Next Up: vs. Ole Miss (2-2, 0-1 SEC) at home.


4. Oklahoma Sooners (3-0) - A bye week for Week 4, the Sooners will host #18 TCU (4-0, 1-0 MWC) this week.


5. LSU Tigers (3-0, 1-0 SEC) - The defending BCS champions traveled to then #5 Auburn (3-1, 1-1 SEC) to defeat the Tigers 26-21 on their home field. Next Up: vs. Mississippi State (1-3, 0-1 SEC).


6. Texas Longhorns (3-0) - The Longhorns beat Rice (2-2, 2-0 C-USA) at home 52-10 to close out their games in September. Next Up: Hurricane delayed makeup game with Arkansas (2-1, 0-1 SEC).


7. Missouri Tigers (4-0) - The Tigers closed on their September slate with a 42-21 win over Buffalo (2-2, 1-0 MAC) at home. Bye Week, at Nebraska (3-0) on October 4th.


8. Alabama Crimson Tide (4-0, 1-0 SEC) - The Crimson Tide traveled to Arkansas (2-1, 0-1) to open the SEC with 49-14 win. Next Up: at #3 Georgia (4-0, 1-0 SEC) this week.


9. Wake Forest Deacon Demons (3-0, 1-0 ACC) - Coach Jim Grobe's team carries the ACC banner for now, after a 12-3 road win at Florida State (2-1, 0-1 ACC) to open league play. Next Up: vs. Navy (2-2) at home.


10. Ohio State (3-1) - The Buckeyes turned the keys over to freshman QB Terrelle Pryor, who lead OSU to a 28-10 win over Troy (2-1, 1-0 Sun Belt) at home. Next Up: vs. Minnesota (4-0) at home, who the Buckeyes beat 30-7 in '07.


11. Auburn Tigers (3-1, 1-1 SEC) - After a loss to then #7 LSU 21-26 at home, the Tigers will host Tennessee (1-2, 0-1 SEC) for another strong SEC match up.


12. Brigham Young Cougars (4-0, 1-0 MWC) - Continues to carry the non-BCS banner by winning their conference opener over Wyoming (2-2, 0-2 MWC) 44-0 at home. Next Up:


13. Penn State Nittany Lions (4-0) - Nittany Lions closed out the OOC with a 45-3 win over Temple (1-3, 0-1 MAC) at home in Happy Valley. Next Up: vs. Illinois (3-1) at home for Big Ten opener.


14. Wisconsin Badgers (3-0) - Coming off a bye week, the Badgers travel to Ann Arbor this week for their Big Ten opener at Michigan (1-2).


15. Utah Utes (4-0, 2-0 MWC) - Utah picked up an important MWC road win at Air Force (3-1, 1-1 MWC) 30-23. Next Up: vs. Weber State (3-1 FCS) at home.


16. South Florida Bulls (4-0) - The Bulls traveled to in-state FIU (0-3) and picked up a 17-9 win on the road. Next Up: at North Carolina State


17. Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-0) - Red Raiders won 56-14 over UMass (2-2 FCS) at home. Next Up: Bye week, before Big 12 opener at Kansas State (2-1) on Oct. 4th.


18. TCU Horned Frogs (4-0, 1-0 MWC) - TCU beat cross-town rival SMU (1-3, 0-1 CUSA) on the road. Next Up: at #4 Oklahoma (4-0).


19. Vanderbilt Commodores(4-0, 2-0 SEC) - Traveled to Ole Miss (2-2, 0-2 SEC) and pulled out a 23-17 win on the road. Next Up:


20. Clemson Tigers (2-1, 1-0 ACC) - Tigers defeated South Carolina State (2-2 FCS) 54-0 at home. Next Up: vs. Maryland (3-1) at home.


21. East Carolina (3-1, 1-0 C-USA) - The Pirates won't go 12-0 in the regular season, after 24-30 OT loss at North Carolina State (2-2, 0-1 ACC). Next Up: vs. Houston (1-3) at home in a C-USA game.


22. Boise State Broncos (3-0) - Maybe a little high, but the Broncos picked up a quality win over then #9 Oregon (3-1, 1-0 Pac 10) on the road 37-32. Bye week, with a Wed. Oct. 1 WAC opener vs. Louisiana Tech (2-1) at home.
    
    
23. Fresno State Bulldogs (2-1) - Back in the Top 25, after picking up their second road win of the season with a 55-54 win at Toledo (1-2, 1-0 MAC). Next Up: at UCLA (1-2, 0-1 Pac 10).


24. Oregon Ducks (3-1, 1-0 Pac 10) - The Ducks drop out of the Top 10 after a home loss to Boise State 37-32 in Week 4. Next Up: at Washington State (1-3, 0-1 Pac 10).
    
    
25. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (3-0, 1-0 C-USA) - The Golden Hurricane won a C-USA-MWC showdown beating New Mexico (1-3, 0-1 MWC) 56-14 at home. Next Up: vs. Central Arkansas (4-0 FCS), at home.

Out of the Top 25 after Week 4 - Tennessee Volunteers (1-2, 0-1 SEC).

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The Good, Bad and Ugly after Week 4: Top 25?

It's still early in 2008 College Football season, but we are seeing some strengths and weaknesses starting to unfold, after four weeks of football. The Big Ten Conference will begin conference play in Week 5 and clearly from a national prospective... the torch barrier has fallen, bringing much of the conference with it. Four teams enter conference play undefeated, so it should be an interesting race in 2008.

USC is #1 nationally, but what about the strength of the Pac 10 overall? Can the Trojans remain focused week in and week out to run the table in '08 in the regular season?

The SEC is doing very well, when you look at Vanderbilt at 4-0 and 2-0 in the SEC and the top of the ticket this fall, taking care of business thus far with teams, like Georgia, Florida, LSU and Alabama.

How far can the Big 12 go in 2008? Will Oklahoma remain on top as the season unfolds and we finish out the season with the Big 12 Championship game? Missouri won it's first Big 12 North title ever in '07. Can anyone stop them from going higher in '08?

The Big East and the ACC... some want to dump the Big Ten into the fray, but clearly the Big East and ACC are falling short at the top of the ticket. Ohio State has one loss against #1 and two other prospects clearly appear capable of carrying the Big Ten's top banner at a higher level than anyone in either the Big East or ACC.

Pitt beat Iowa 21-20 at home. But, South Florida (4-0) played a tighter than expected game against FIU (0-3). USF beat Kansas (3-1) earlier, but how strong are they has they move into Big East play? Are we going to see another season, like 2004, with the Big East Conference in '08? In 2004, Pitt pulled off an important win at home in OT vs. Maryland. This year, Pitt (2-1) beat Iowa (3-1) in a game that could or should have gone either way.

The ACC doesn't have a clear cut Top 10 type team. Wake Forest at 3-0, 1-0 in the ACC doesn't seem to excite the country as a leader, as other names in the past. Can Virginia Tech (3-1, 2-0 ACC) gain back some much needed energy for the ACC in Week 5? The Hokies travel to Nebraska (3-0) for an interesting ACC-Big 12 contest. The Cornhuskers will be facing their first BCS conference opponent for the year. Of course, the Cornhuskers enter with two weeks of preparation, while is coming off a big road win in the ACC.

Notre Dame (1-2) will host their final Big Ten opponent of the year, with Purdue (2-1) heading to South Bend for Week 5. It will be coach Joe Tiller's final showdown, in his final season at Purdue. The Irish have an opportunity to start a winning streak on their schedule.

What about the non-BCS teams and conferences, thus far, after four weeks of play.

East Carolina (C-USA) found a early struggling North Carolina State (2-2, 0-1 ACC) as too much for the Pirates in Week 4 on the road. NC State beat ECU 30-24 to end the Pirates' quest for a Cinderella season. But, ECU (3-1, 1-0 CUSA) is off to a very solid start and will return to conference play in Week 5. Tulsa (3-0, 1-0 CUSA) picked up a win over New Mexico (MWC) in the OOC, while Marshall (3-1, 2-0 CUSA) is off to a good conference start by picking up another win in Week 4.

The MWC is off to a very good start lead by four conference teams: BYU (4-0, 1-0 MWC), Utah (4-0, 2-0 MWC), TCU (4-0, 1-0 MWC) and UNLV (3-1, 0-1 MWC). UNLV beat Iowa State (2-2) in OT at home, 34-31.

The WAC carried the non-BCS banner into the BCS bowls the past couple of years (Hawaii in '07 and Boise in '06). The WAC may not be out of it in '08, after a huge win by Boise State (3-0) over Oregon (3-1, 1-0 Pac 10) in Week 4 on the road. Fresno State (2-1) won an important road game again at Toledo in Week 4. Fresno's only loss was to Wisconsin (3-0) in Week 3, at home.

The Sun Belt and MAC don't appear primed for a strong non-BCS conference run vs. BCS opponents. Florida Atlantic (1-3) was a popular choice by many in the Sun Belt. But, FAU has showed very little in road games at Texas (3-0), Michigan State (3-1) and Minnesota (4-0).

Troy (2-1, 1-0 Sun Belt) and Arkansas State (3-1, 1-0 Sun Belt) are playing well in 2008 and clearly look capable of giving FAU a run for the Sun Belt Conference. I still like Troy taking the Sun Belt in '08.

But in the MAC, one team is clearly playing strong football. Ball State (4-0, 1-0 MAC) is playing well and did pick up a win over a BCS opponent for the MAC in Week 4. Ball State beat Indiana (3-1) 42-20. My favorite pick for the MAC is Western Michigan (3-1, 1-0 MAC). Central Michigan (2-2, 1-0 MAC), the favorite by many in the MAC, lost their third game to Purdue (2-1), since the third game of last year.

Week 5 will be the final weekend of September 2008. With conference play beginning for many, we should see some shake up continue throughout the Top 25 and beyond.

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Ethical Perspectives: KCRG-TV's Local Program

Interesting show this morning... looking at that the Ethical Perspectives of this year's Olympics in Beijing, China.

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Vegas was right to begin with: Pitt by 1 over Iowa

Shonn Greene - Star of the Day...

Iowa is better than last year. Sadly, we loss our first road test. Thankfully, Iowa beat ISU and will enter the Big Ten 3-1 this year, rather than 2-1.

Iowa left a lot of plays out on the field.

Special teams - break downs...missed FG bad snap leading to bad punt and change in field position break downs on the return coverage break downs on punt returns - Iowa allowed the ball to drop a little more this game than early in the season... remember the sliding catches at Kinnick.

The coaching staff played the odds and lost with Jake Christensen. Is it all terrible.

I don't think so, if Iowa moves to Ricky Stanzi at quarterback.

The coaching staff need to pull Christensen as a starter... period.

Let Stanzi play things out. You can bring Christensen as a sub, a reliever, which is the best he likely will ever be.

Iowa's offense, defense and special teams need to get ready for the real season.

Should Iowa be 3-1? Yes.
Could Iowa have been 4-0. Yes.

Iowa's most important game in September is the Big Ten opener. I know many will say ISU.

But, it's really Northwestern.

Iowa know has the taste of loss in their mouths.

This was a TEAM loss. Let's see what the character is of this team.

The coaching staff made some plays today.

But, we saw another good, bad, and ugly game.

On Iowa!

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Iowa @ Pitt: First road test for Hawkeyes in '08

Another Big Ten vs. Big East match up against two teams looking to grab some momentum before conference play begins for '08.


Iowa (3-0) will meet Pitt (1-1) at Heinz Field, in Pittsburgh, Saturday at 11 am on ESPN2. It will be the first meeting between the two teams, since 1952. Pitt is a slight favorite at home.


The Hawkeyes and Panthers both entered the season looking to redeem their programs, after a couple of years of down times. The Hawkeyes haven't had a winning season, since 2005, while the Panthers have been shut out of a bowl game, since 2004.


The Hawkeyes will bring a two-quarterback attack to Heinz field on Saturday. Junior Jake Christensen will make his second start of the season, with sophomore Ricky Stanzi in relief for Week 4. Pittsburgh will counter with junior QB Bill Stull at the helm. Ball security will be important for both teams. Stull had a rough freshmen season as the primary starter. Christensen for Iowa is usually good at keeping mistakes to a minimum, but his consistency will be tested as he battles to be the #1 quarterback for Iowa.

The running game will be something to watch on Saturday. Iowa lost all three running backs from '07, but junior Shonn Greene has ran for three straight 100-yard games, since returning to the Iowa team, after spending '07 focusing on academics at a JUCO. Pitt's top running back, sophomore LeSean McCoy, is looking to get on track in '08, after earning Big East freshman player of the year honors in '07.

The real area to watch in this game is the line-play. The strong suit for both team is the defensive front, so it will be interesting to see, which O-Line finishes stronger in this match up. Iowa appears to have the edge in O-Line, but this will be the first road test for Iowa, so one will have to see how the players respond to their first road test.

Special teams are always important. Iowa from 2002 to 2004 excelled in special teams. The potential is there for Iowa in '08, after three lack luster seasons in this phase.

Pitt is coming off a bye week. Iowa is coming off an important 17-5 win over in-state rival, Iowa State. Pitt is just 1-5 vs. non-conference BCS teams.

Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz and Pitt coach Dave Wannstedt both have college and NFL experience, with Wannstedt having the head coaching experience at the next level. Both teams are needing to heal some past wounds from the past several seasons.

It should be a classic battle between two football teams that haven't meet lately. It should be a good game, despite the problems of either program the past several seasons.

My pick:

Iowa 23
Pitt 16

Iowa wins the battle of the line of scrimmage and pulls out another important road test, to follow up road wins at Miami-OH (2002) and at Syracuse (2006). Iowa has won 3 of 4 in the State of PA, since 2000 (all four games were in Happy Valley).

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Ohio State may not be a Top 10 team nationally, but #1 in the Big Ten

Ohio State is taking it on the chin with the 35-3 loss to USC and after back to back losses in the BCS Title game the past two seasons. But, until Wisconsin beats Ohio State in the Big Ten, I can't take Ohio State down too far down. Would anyone beat USC right now at the Coliseum?

Don't discount Ohio State too much for three quality losses. The Buckeyes are well coached and have plenty of talent. They are certainly the team to beat in '08.

Rating the Big Ten through Week 3 - opponent this week

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (2-1 overall, 0-0 conference) - vs. Troy


2. Penn State Nittany Lions (3-0, 0-0) - vs. Temple


3. Wisconsin Badgers (3-0, 0-0) - idle, open the Big Ten Sept. 27th


4. Iowa Hawkeyes (3-0, 0-0) - at Pittsburgh


5. Illinois Fighting Illini (2-1, 0-0) - idle, open the Big Ten Sept. 27th


6. Michigan State Spartans (2-1, 0-0) - vs. Notre Dame


7. Northwestern Wildcats (3-0, 0-0) - vs. Ohio U.


8. Purdue Boilermakers (1-1, 0-0) - vs. Central Michigan


9. Michigan Wolverines (1-2, 0-0) - idle, open the Big Ten Sept. 27th


10. Indiana Hoosiers (2-0, 0-0) - vs. Ball State


11. Minnesota Gophers (3-0, 0-0) - vs. Florida Atlantic

peace

After Week 3, USC is clearly the top team in '08 right now!

Trojans head coach Pete Carroll has assembled plenty of talent at USC this season. Some believe it could be Carroll's best team. USC's 35-3 home cooking of the Big Ten's top rated program, Ohio State, clearly gives some strong evidence.

Some talking heads are ready to pass the torch to a team other than Ohio State in the Big Ten pecking order. Does a 13-10 win by Wisconsin at Fresno State pass the torch to a team that hasn't won a Big Ten title, since 2000? The Big Ten Conference season is two weeks away. Ohio State is still the team to beat.

USC looks very good. But, clearly the Pac 10 Conference has shown the good, the bad and the ugly this weekend. BYU blasted UCLA, UNLV beat Arizona State in Tempe and New Mexico knocked off Arizona this weekend, along with other losses in Week 3.

It's still very early in the 2008 College Football season, but some teams are clearly moving up and down (and out of) the Top 25, after Week 3. Who are the Top Teams right now in college football? Here's my take, after three weeks:

1. USC Trojans (2-0) - Is there any question who should be #1 right now? Clearly, one of the most consistent BCS programs, since 2002, with six straight BCS appearances. Quality wins: at Virginia (ACC) Week 1 and vs. Ohio State (Big Ten) Week 3. The Pac 10 slate includes all nine other members. The Trojans will be idle Week 4 and will open Pac 10 play on September 25th at Oregon State (1-2, 0-1 Pac 10).
2. Georgia Bulldogs (3-0, 1-0 SEC) - UGA picks up a nice 14-7 victory in the SEC opener at South Carolina (1-2, 0-2 SEC). Further, the Bulldogs revenged last year's SEC opening loss at home to the Gamecocks (12-16 in '07). Now, the Bulldogs go on the road to face, an upset Arizona State (2-1) team, that is coming off a disappointing home OT loss 20-23 to UNLV in Week 3. Georgia has wins now over Georgia Southern (FCS) and Central Michigan (MAC) to go with their first SEC win...
3. Florida Gators (2-0) - The Gators have home victories over Hawaii (WAC) and Miami-FL (ACC) to open the '08 season. The first real test will come this Saturday, as the Gators travel to Knoxville for a game at Top 25 Tennessee (1-1), who are coming off a 35-3 win in their home opener over UAB.
4. Oklahoma Sooners (3-0) - The Sooners traveled on the road for the first time in Week 3 and picked up a solid 55-14 win at Washington (0-3, 0-1 Pac 10). The Sooners have wins over UT-Chattanooga (FCS), Cincinnati (Big East) and now Washington (Pac 10). The Sooners will take two weeks to prepare for home date with TCU (3-0, 1-0 MWC), who picked up a 31-14 win over the Pac 10 as well, beating Stanford 31-14 at home.
5. Auburn Tigers (3-0, 1-0 SEC) - A similar track for Auburn, as Georgia, the Tigers revenge a SEC opening loss in '07 (14-19 vs. MSU) with a road opening SEC victory 3-2 at Mississippi State (1-2, 0-1 SEC). Auburn has beat UL Monroe (Sun Belt) and Southern Miss (C-USA) before picking up first SEC win to open '08. Big Top 10 match up at home with SEC rival LSU (2-0) coming in Week 4.
6. Texas Longhorns (2-0) - Hurricane Ike postponed the Texas-Arkansas game this week. The home game will be postponed until September 27th. The Longhorns have wins over Florida Atlantic (Sun Belt) and at UTEP (C-USA) so far this season. The Longhorns host Rice (2-1, 2-0 C-USA) in Week 4.
7. LSU Tigers (2-0) - The defending BCS champs have tune up victories over Appalachian State (FCS) Week 1 and North Texas (Sun Belt) Week 3. The real season begins Week 4 with a SEC opener at #5 Auburn (3-0).
8. Missouri Tigers (3-0) - Coach Gary Pickel has the Tigers high powered offense rolling with 69-17 home victory over the Nevada (1-2). The Tigers have defeated Illinois (Big Ten), Southeast Missouri (FCS) and Nevada (WAC) to open '08. Next up: Buffalo (2-1, 1-0 MAC) at home.
9. Oregon Ducks (3-0, 1-0 Pac 10) - Big OT come from behind road win 32-26 at Purdue for coach Mike Belotti and the Ducks. As I mentioned last week, "Bellotti is always dangerous if he gets strong QB play!" He will have to do his magic, with the Ducks down to their 3rd QB now. Wins to date: Pac 10 opener, Washington; Utah State (WAC), and Purdue (Big Ten). Next up: Boise State (2-0) at home.
10. Ohio State (2-1) - Yes, the Buckeyes remain in my Top 10, despite a blowout loss at USC 35-3 in Week 3. The Buckeyes will not face a team of USC's skill set the rest of the way. Does anyone have more talent than #1 USC? Ohio State is the team to beat in the Big Ten in '08. They can match up better vs. others in the Top 10, especially if they eliminate costly penalities and turnovers they allowed at #1 USC and get their #1 RB back. Wins over Youngstown State (FCS) and Ohio U (MAC) don't make a strong resume. But, eight Big Ten games will and a trip to a BCS bowl game certainly remains on the minds of the Buckeye coaching staff. Next up: Troy (2-0) at home.
11. Alabama Crimson Tide (3-0) - Coach Nick Saban's crew picks up 41-7 win at home vs. Western Kentucky (1-2), who will join Sun Belt in '09. Next up: SEC opener at Arkansas (2-0).
12. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-0) - Coach Jim Grobe and the Demon Deacons were idle Week 3 and will open ACC play in Week 4 at Florida State (2-0).
13. Brigham Young Cougars (3-0) - Solid non-BCS conference leader, so far in '08, building on the resume with second straight Pac 10 win, this week, over UCLA (1-1), at home, 59-0.
14. Penn State (3-0) - So far, Joe Pa has the perfect script beginning for a sweet final season in Happy Valley, with his Nittany Lions winning on the road for the first time in Week 3, with 55-13 win at Syracuse (0-3). Next Up: Temple (1-2, 0-1 MAC) at home.
15. Wisconsin Badgers (3-0) - The Badgers weathered an early road test at previously rated #20 Fresno State, with a 13-10 victory. The Badgers will return to road in two weeks, as they open Big Ten play Sepetember 27th at Michigan (1-2).
16. Utah Utes (3-0, 1-0 MWC) - The Utes picked up a road win at in-state rival Utah State (0-3) 58-10 to remain unbeated, after wins at Michigan and at home in the MWC, vs. UNLV. Next Up: Air Force (3-0, 1-0 MWC).
17. South Florida Bulls (3-0) - Second half comeback at home vs. then rated #19 Kansas (2-1) keep the Bulls undefeated in '08. Next up: FIU (0-2) at home.
18. Texas Tech Red Raiders (3-0) - The Red Raiders win third straight OOC home game with 43-7 win over SMU (1-2, 0-1 C-USA). Next up: Massachusetts (FCS) at home.
19. East Carolina Pirates (3-0, 1-0 C-USA) - Avoided C-USA upset at Tulane (0-2, 0-1 C-USA) with a come from behind 28-24 victory on the road. Next up: at North Carolina State (1-2, 0-1 ACC).
20. Clemson Tigers (2-1, 1-0 ACC) - Open ACC play with 27-9 win over North Carolina State (1-2, 0-1 ACC) at home. Next up: South Carolina State (FCS) at home.
21. Tennessee Volunteers (1-1) - The Volunteers rebounded from disappointing Labor Day loss at UCLA with a 35-3 home win over UAB (0-3, 0-1 C-USA). Next Up: #3 Florida (2-0) at home to open SEC play.
22. TCU Horned Frogs (3-0, 1-0 MWC) - Coach Gary Patterson's team beat Stanford (1-2, 1-1 Pac 10) at home. Next up: At cross town rival SMU (1-2, 0-1 C-USA).
23. Kansas Jayhawks (2-1) - Lose big opportunity at then rated #23 South Florida (3-0) 34-37 with second half collapse. Next up: Sam Houston State (FBS) at home.
24. Vanderbilt Commodores(3-0, 1-0 SEC) - Coach Bobby Johnson has the Commodores playing solid football with wins at Miami-OH, vs. SEC foe (South Carolina) and a 38-21 win vs. Rice (2-1, 2-0 C-USA) at home in Week 3.
25. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (2-0, 1-0 C-USA) - Coach Todd Graham and the Golden Hurricane enjoyed a bye week and will host New Mexico (1-2, 0-1 MWC) in Week 4, who are coming off 36-28 home win over Arizona.

Out of the Top 25 after Week 3 - Arizona State (2-1, 1-0 Pac 10) and Fresno State (1-1)

Team to Watch - Iowa (3-0) - Win Cy-Hawk Trophy 17-5 over Iowa State (2-1)... the Hawkeyes face first road test at Pittsburgh (1-1)... for another Big Ten vs. Big East inter-conference battle.

peace

After all, it's a Hawkeye State, again for '08

Iowa and Iowa State met at Kinnick Stadium Saturday for the annual Cy-Hawk Trophy game. The Iowa Hawkeyes defeated the Iowa State Cyclones 17-5 on a wet field that clearly slowed down the Iowa running game, while reducing both teams offensive options.

I was glad that the weather didn't impact my return from Las Vegas, after a week of work in Sin City. It is interesting to see how strong the Vegas numbers turned out to be. The spread was 13 1/2 entering the Cy-Hawk game. The over/under was 27 1/2. My pre-game prediction wasn't hit, Iowa 24, ISU 9, but Vegas certainly knows it's stuff. Plenty of growth going on in Sin City, regardless of the election year economy.

Iowa had the spread covered at 17-3, under Kirk Ferentz took a safety to secure field position and put the game strongly in Iowa's favor. Vegas surprised me with a 27 1/2 over/under and they were right on the money.

Both Iowa (3-0) and ISU (2-1) played a conservative chess match on Saturday. Both teams appear to be well coached. Ironically, it would be nice to follow ISU next weekend. They head to Vegas for a football game vs. UNLV (2-1, 0-1 MWC) next weekend. There are some things I would still enjoy to do in Las Vegas, after my business trip last week. By the way, UNLV is coming off a 23-20 road win over Top 25 Arizona State late Saturday.

Iowa will head East next week to play a down Pittsburgh Panthers (1-1) team. This will be a real test for the Hawkeyes, despite the problems at Pittsburgh.

Iowa controlled the first half of the Cy-Hawk game, but the scoreboard only reflected a 3-0 lead. As often is the case with underdogs, if they can keep it close, an upset victory can be obtained.

Iowa's defense raised to the occasion in the third quarter, which was played on Iowa's side of the field for nearly the entire 15 minutes. But, ISU didn't take advantage or real find it's niche in the moment. They finished the half tied, 3-3, after former Linn Mar's Grant Mahoney's 43-yard field goal late in the quarter.

A side note, the ISU band and Linn Mar enjoyed a solid weekend together this weekend. The ISU band is very good and they were on hand to witness the Linn Mar Lions first victory in a long time Friday night. Mahoney's Cyclones didn't prevail, but his alma mater finally did. :)

Iowa's offense, defense and special teams all raised above Iowa State on Saturday. They were supposed to, being a 13 1/2 point favorite. Both teams have a lot more to play for in '08. Both teams clearly appear better than their '07 counterparts.

Iowa 17

ISU 5

It's after all called the Hawkeye State, both in the text books and today on the football field, again!

Iowa's coach Kirk Ferentz has won 4 of last 6. Historically, Iowa wins 2 out of every 3 games vs. ISU in the Cy-Hawk series. Yesterday, was a good game in the series. Hopefully, both Iowa and ISU will move on from the Cy-Hawk games to make some noise in their respective conferences, the Big Ten and Big 12.

peace

Who's #1 in College Football? It's only Week 2...

It's never easy to take much out of one or two games. Based on the performances thus far, it's time to shake up the Top 25, due to losses, upsets, strong performances, close calls and injuries.

I like Ohio State, but they must earn it on the field and the performance vs. Ohio U. in Week 2 does matter.

USC didn't play this weekend. They are consistent as anyone, since 2002.

Georgia is a fine program, but they have never played in a BCS Title Game.

Here's my Top 25, after Week 2 of the 2008 college football season:

1. USC Trojans (1-0) - Face #2 Ohio State in Los Angeles this week... week 3!
2. Ohio State Buckeyes (2-0) - Many questions on the field heading to California!
3. Georgia Bulldogs (2-0) - Is this the year for coach Mark Richt and the Bulldogs?
4. Florida Gators (2-0) - Recent history makes the Gators a popular choice.
5. Oklahoma Sooners (2-0) - Does coach Bob Stoops get his Mojo right for a title game in '08?
6. Auburn Tigers (2-0) - The SEC sleeper for '08, though is it realistic to call the Tigers one?
7. Texas Longhorns (2-0) - Some have written off the Longhorns as a strong '08 team...
8. LSU Tigers (1-0) - Hurriane Gustov postponed the Tigers week 2 game with Troy (1-0).
9. Missouri Tigers (2-0) - wow, three Tigers programs are in the Top 10... Missouri going for two straight in Big 12 North, after first title in '07.
10. Oregon Ducks (2-0, 1-0 Pac 10) - Coach Mike Bellotti is always dangerous if he gets strong QB play!
11. Alabama Crimson Tide (2-0) - Is coach Nick Saban's team ready for the Top 10 this quick?
12. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-0) - Last second FG secures win over 'ole Miss (1-1) 30-28.
13. Brigham Young Cougars (2-0) - This 28-27 win over Washington (0-2, 0-1 Pac 10) will be talked about, after Cougars block XP, after Washington's costly celebration after what was to be a game tying touchdown in final seconds of game.
14. Arizona State Sun Devils (2-0, 1-0 Pac 10) - Sun Devils pick up nice win over Stanford (1-1, 1-1 Pac 10) to open conference play in week 2 with 41-17 home victory!
15. Penn State Nittany Lions (2-0) - First of two Big Ten teams looking to make a move after 5th place finish in '07... blows out Oregon State (0-2, 0-1 Pac 10) 45-14 in Happy Valley!
16. Utah Utes (2-0, 1-0 MWC) - After big win in opener in Big House, Utes win at home 42-21 over UNLV (1-1, 0-1 MWC) in MWC opener.
17. Wisconsin Badgers (2-0) - Coach Bret Bielema has been a hot coach, since his promotion in '06... huge road test this week at #20 Fresno State.
18. Texas Tech (2-0) - Will host in-state SMU (1-1, 0-1 C-USA) after 35-19 road win at Nevada (1-1) in week 2.
19. Kansas (2-0) - Picks up 23-0 victory over LA Tech (1-1) and will travel to #23 USF this week!
20. Fresno State (1-0) - Will host #17 Wisconsin in their home opener this week!
21. East Carolina (2-0) - Pirates upset second Top 25 opponent at home in back to back games, vs. Virginia Tech in week 1 and West Virginia in week 2.
22. Clemson (1-1) - Beats up on FCS The Citadel (1-1) 45-17 to rebound from the disappointing loss to Alabama in the season opener.
23. South Florida (2-0) - Ends the series with the University of Central Florida (1-1) with a 31-24 win.
24. Tennessee (0-1) - Will play UAB (0-2) this week after Labor Day disappointment at UCLA 24-27 in OT.
25. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (2-0, 1-0 C-USA) - Tulsa wins important road game at North Texas (0-2) 56-26.

Out of the Top 25 after Week 2 - West Virginia (1-1)

Game to Watch this week: Cy-Hawk Series in Iowa City, Iowa: Iowa State Cyclones (2-0) at Iowa Hawkeyes (2-0)... Hawkeyes haven't given up a TD this year and haven't given up a TD to the Cyclones, since '06).

Team to Watch: a team from Iowa, either is 2-0 entering big in-state out of conference game in Week 3.

peace

Iowa Hawkeyes blank FIU Golden Panthers 42-0 at Kinnick

My prediction coming into this game was 35-9 Iowa. Iowa scored 35 by halftime and the rest was a spring scrimmage look as Iowa played there 3rd string QB for the first time in the fourth quarter on a beautiful afternoon game at Kinnick Stadium.

More on the game at a later point.

peace

City High at Cedar Rapids Washington tonight

It will likely be a wet field, with all the rain today. Both teams come in 1-0, with City High rated #5 and Washington #3 in the state in 4-A. I was hoping to watch the game at Kingston Stadium, but I may have to settle for radio.

This could be an "explosive" game at Kingston Stadium, as some are projecting. As The Gazette mentioned today... defense and special teams could play a huge role, since both teams have strong offenses.

Go Warriors!

peace

New AP and USA Todays' Coaches Polls are out!

USC is #1 in both polls jumping Georgia in this week's AP Poll.

USC has a bye week for week 2 and will face #3 Ohio State on September 13th. Clearly, the USC-Ohio State game will decide who it the early #1 in college football.

peace

Cidsports post week one College Football Top 25 teams

The 2008 college football season has kicked off their first week of play. We have had some great games, with some non-BCS teams taking it to some BCS programs that may have impact on the 2008 season. Not really, since one game doesn't make a season. Until the BCS ratings begin to be released weekly around the middle of the season, we typically need to take early polls with a little grain of salt, since we don't know enough about each team this early in the season.

Though, the first week certainly opened some drama for the 2008 season. OSU's RB Chris "Beanie" Wells went down with a foot injury. Clemson was well, Clemson and didn't step up in a big game, losing to Alabama. East Carolina knocked Virginia Tech down at their own game, fueled by a blocked punt for a game changing touchdown and win over the Hokies.

My new Top 25 post week one (record, including conference, if applicable) last week's rating:

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (1-0) 1 - 43-0 home win over FCS Youngstown State (0-1) appears to be par for the course for the opener, after 38-6 win in '07 vs. YSU... the Buckeyes will host Ohio U (0-1) for a Week 2 game in Columbus.


2. Georgia Bulldogs (1-0) 2 - 45-21 home win over FCS Georgia Southern (0-1) appears to be par for the course for the opener, after 48-28 win in '04 season opener vs. GSU... the Bulldogs will host Central Michigan (1-0), who won home opener on Thursday night, for a Week 2 match up.


3. USC Trojans (1-0) 3 - 52-7 road win over Virginia (0-1) to open the '08 season in strong fashion... now, a bye week proceeds the home opener on September 13 with #1 Ohio State (1-0) in the Los Angeles Coliseum.


4. Oklahoma Sooners (1-0) 4 - 52-2 home win over FCS Chattanooga (0-1) in the uglest match up of Top 10 teams to open season... now, the Sooners will host Cincinnati (1-0) for a Week 2 game in Norman.


5. Florida Gators (1-0) 5 - 56-10 home win over Hawaii (0-1) in a game that was never competitive... now, the Gators will host intra-state rival Miami-FL (1-0) in Gainsville.


6. Auburn Tigers (1-0) 6 - 34-0 home win over Louisiana-Monroe (0-1), who went 6-6 in '07, with an upset over Auburn rival Alabama in '07... Tigers were all business and will host Southern Miss (1-0) in Week 2.


7. Texas Longhorns (1-0) 7 - 52-10 home win over Florida Atlantic (0-1), against the top pick in the Sun Belt the Longhorns won in convincing fashion... next, the Longhorns will travel to El Paso to face UTEP (0-1).


8. LSU Tigers (1-0) 8 - 41-13 home win over FCS defending champion Appalachian State (0-1), so the defending champions get off to good start... now, the Tigers will host Troy (1-0, 1-0 Sun Belt), who are coming off a key Sun Belt road game to start their season.


9. West Virginia Mountaineers (1-0) 9 - 48-21 home win over FCS Villanova (0-1), to welcome in coach Bill Stewart's first full season as Rich Rodriquez replacement... but, a dangerous game at East Carolina (1-0) is up, after ECU upset win over then #12 VT at home.


10. Missouri Tigers (1-0) 10 - 52-42 win over then #20 Illinois (0-1) in St. Louis, both teams played in '07, with Mizzu winning 40-34 in that one... next, the Tigers will open at home with SE Missouri (1-0), a FCS school, who won their home opener with Southwest Baptist 35-28 in OT. (OU won this weekend's ugliest Top 10 match up, so Missouri wins it for week 2).


11. Oregon Ducks (1-0, 1-0 in Pac 10) 14 - 44-10 home win over Washington (0-1, 0-1 Pac 10) to open season and conference play for '08... the Ducks will host Utah State (0-1) in Week 2.


12. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-0) 18 - won road opener 41-13 at Baylor (0-1) on Thursday night to open the season... with the trouble Wake's ACC brothers Clemson and VT had in their openers... Wake will carry the ACC torch for now! Next up: Mississippi (1-0) in Demon Deacons home opener.
    
    
13. Brigham Young Cougars (1-0) 13 - 41-17 home win vs. FCS Northern Iowa (0-1) in a game that was within ten points entering the fourth quarter... Cougars won hard fought game over Panthers. Next up: BYU hosts Washington (0-1, 0-1 Pac 10).


14. Alabama Crimson Tide (1-0) nr - 34-10 win over then #11 Clemson (0-1) in Atlanta... coach Nick Saban and his Crimson Tide used a mix of youth and experience to convincingly beat Clemson. Next up: vs. Tulane (0-0), who face Gustav this weekend, rather than football. Hopefully, it's not a repeat of Katrina for those from New Orleans in '08.
    
    
15. Utah Utes (1-0) 23 - win 25-23 on the road in Ann Arbor at Michigan (0-1)... to dampen the Wolverines new coach, Rich Rodriquez, debut in Ann Arbor. Next up: home opener vs. UNLV (1-0)
    
16. Arizona State Sun Devils (1-0) 16 - 30-13 home win over FCS Northern Arizona (0-1)... not exactly convincing fashion, after the Sun Devils beat NAU 35-14 in '06. Next up: Pac Ten home opener vs. Stanford (1-0, 1-0 in Pac Ten).


17. Penn State Nittany Lions (1-0) 17 - 66-10 home win over FCS Coastal Carolina (0-1)... nice win for the Nittany Lions... now, the Nittany Lions will host Oregon State (0-1, 0-1 in Pac 10) in an important Big Ten-Pac 10 match up.


18. Texas Tech Red Raiders (1-0) 19 - 49-24 home win over FCS Eastern Washington (0-1) to open '08... now, the Red Raiders will travel to Nevada (1-0) for a Week 2 match up.


19. Kansas Jayhawks (1-0) 21 - 40-10 home win over Florida International (0-1)... the Jayhawks beat FIU 55-3 in '07 fwiw.... now, the Jayhawks will host Louisiana Tech (1-0), after LA Tech beat Mississippi State in their home opener in week 1. Could this be an interesting Week 2 BCS- non-BCS match up?


20. Fresno State Bulldogs (1-0) 22 - 24-7 road win at Rutgers (0-1) on Monday... the Bulldogs will have a bye week to prepare for their home opener week 3 vs. Wisconsin (1-0) at Bulldog Stadium.


21. Wisconsin Badgers (1-0) 24 - 38-17 home win over Akron (0-1)... the running game rolled in Madison in home opener... next, the Badgers host Marshall (1-0) in Week 2 game.


22. Clemson (0-1) 11 - 10-34 loss to Alabama (1-0) in Atlanta... the Tigers clearly were out manned by their SEC foe in their opener... next, the Tigers open at home vs. FCS The Citadel (1-0).


23. South Carolina (1-0) nr - 34-30 home win over North Carolina State (0-1)... clearly the Gamecocks dismantled NC State in the opener of '08. Next up: SEC opener at Vanderbilt (1-0).
    
    
24. Tennessee Volunteers (0-1) 14 - 24-27 OT road loss at UCLA (1-0) on Monday night in exciting finish to to the first weekend of college football... the Volunteers will have a bye week before hosting UAB (0-1) in week 3.


25. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (1-0, 1-0 in C-USA) - won on road 45-22 at UAB (0-1, 0-1 C-USA) in conference opener for both teams. Next up: at North Texas (0-1).

Out of the Top 25 after Week 1 - Virginia Tech (0-1, 12), Illinois (0-1, 20).

Team to Watch - South Florida Bulls (1-0) nr - beat FBS Tennessee-Martin 56-7 in week 1 and will travel to Central Florida (1-0) in week 2.

peace

Happy Labor Day Everyone!

Happy Labor Day!

Happy Birthday Day for all those celebrating on September 1 or those celebrating birthdays in the month of September. You know who you are!

The 2008 college football season has kicked off.

Tonight, we will have the final day of the first weekend, with Top 25 Tennessee traveling to UCLA. A great SEC-Pac 10 match up in prime time. The afternoon game is Top 25 Fresno State at Rutgers.

Look for another great week of football later this week with the kickoff of the NFL later this week and week 2 of the college football season.

Game on!

peace