Newsletters 10-28--11/3

Pointwise

Write ups coming later...

COLLEGE KEY RELEASES
1--MICHIGAN STATE over Wisconsin 38-17
1--Oregon (+) over CALIFORNIA 33-30
2--OREGON STATE over Arizona State 44-17
3--TEXAS TECH (+) over Texas 47-45
3--Florida over Georgia 37-20
4--LOUISIANA TECH (+) over Fresno State 30-27
5--USC over Washington 60-6
5--STANFORD over Washington State 54-13

NFL KEY RELEASES
3--BUFFALO over ny jets 27-17
4--Tampa Bay over KANSAS CITY 23-10
4--MINNESOTA over Houston 34-24
5--NY GIANTS over Dallas 27-10
5--WASHINGTON over Pittsburgh 22-16

Write ups coming later...
<!-- / message -->

PowerSweep

Anyone have the download link to PowerSweep?

Thanks. :toast:

Thanks, beach. Anyone got some GS or CKO? Those bastards been tanking, but I still like to see who they are on. Preesh.

http://www.zshare.net/download/505847838d8eb15d/


power sweep

Thanks sdf

thank you

Pointwise College Write-ups

Thursday
CINCINNATI 26 - South Florida 23 - (7:45 - ESPN) -- Sporadically impressive
Bulls managed just 8 RYs at Louisville (5 sacks), & altho Grothe was 30-of-40,
note 2 picks, & he had 4 LY vs these 'Cats. A 6-0 TO deficit for Cincy in loss to
UConn, but still a solid run "D", while just 30 pts from a 27-3 ATS run. Host call.

SATURDAY
BOWLING GREEN 31 - Kent State 30 - (2:00) -- Flashes in off snapping 0-12
ATS run, with 54-21 shocker at Miami. Checks 932 RYs for KSt last 4 games,
& +31 pts ATS last 4. All BG's MAC games have been decided within a TD, &
the visitor is 8-0 ATS in Falcon tilts TY, by 129½ pts. In off 233-76 RY deficit.

Central Michigan 34 - INDIANA 24 - (12:00) -- Nice one to avoid. Indy snapped
5-game slide LW, thanks mainly to 5 TOs by N'western. IU allowed 245 RYpg
previous 4 outings, & can't run. LeFevour back for Chips: 24-of-31 (2/0) LW,
but CM not at its best in this setup, with 44 ppg "D" in its 2 non-MAC roadsters.

Air Force 38 - ARMY 17 - (12:00 - ESPNC) -- Resurgent Cadets keep motoring
on: 280, 291, 341, 320, & 203 RYs last 5 games (Mooney: 645 yds last 4), &
covering all 5 by 89 pts. But Falcs held 420 RY edge LY (Wise Points), & are
at 974 RYs last 3 outings. Visitor is plus 105 pts ATS in Army's last 7 games.

Louisville 34 - SYRACUSE 10 - (7:00) -- Definite corner turning for Cards, who
allow just 75 RYpg, rank 17th in rushing "O", & in off holding SoFla to 8 RYs.
Rested 'Cuse managed no FDs & 9 yds in 2nd half of loss to SoFla. They were
decent in previous 14 quarters, but a 33-15 ppg deficit last 25 tilts. Revenger!

VIRGINIA 23 - Miami-Fla 20 - (12:00) -- Four straight wins & covers for Cavs,
who opened at 0-3, with a 128-20 pt deficit in first 3 lined tilts. Are 3-0 home of
late, & by 72½ pts ATS. Check QB Verica at 29-of-39 vs GaTech. 'Canes in
off outlasting Wake, but just 11 FDs & <300 yds. Can't run, but 19th best "D".

CONNECTICUT 20 - West Virginia 17 - (12:00) -- Finally! After failing to top 17
pts in previous 4 outings, Mounties turned 17-3 deficit, into 34-17 win vs Aub,
with 207 RYs from Devine (sweet 12.2 ypr). And WV has owned the Huskies
(Wise Points). But host is 12-2 ATS in UConn games, so worth a minor shot.

ILLINOIS 25 - Iowa 20 - (12:30) -- Let's see. The rested Hawkeyes covered their
last RG by 30 pts, while the Illini covered their last HG by 26 (both vs Indiana).
Illini came from 538 ypg in previous 3 outings, to just 309 at Wisconsin, while
Iowa RB Greene now at 1,154 yds (6.5 ypr - 217 last game). Near the spread.

MINNESOTA 27 - Northwestern 17 - (12:00) -- A 5-0 TO deficit for 'Cats in loss
to Indy, & now may have lost QB Bacher (leg). Have OhioSt up next, but run
into avenging Gophers (Wise Points), whose turnaround has been splendid:
from 1-11 LY, to 7-1 TY. Held all but Buckeyes under 139 RYs. Weber leads it.

WAKE FOREST 17 - Duke 10 - (3:30) -- It continues. Just 10 ppg for Wake in
last 5 tilts. Opened with 25 straight running plays in loss to Miami. One of the
worst HF plays, & Imps remember last 2 years. Duke still can't run (74 RYpg
last 5), despite win over Vandy, & averaging only 5 ppg away. But a puppy call.

OKLAHOMA STATE 55 - Iowa State 10 - (3:30) -- Quick bounceback shot for
'Boys, who nearly took Texas (217-112 RY edge), & who have TexTech up next.
Drained, while Cycs in off 34 FD, 574 yd effort (49-35 loss). IowaSt allowing 38
ppg last 5 games, & rank 99th in total "D". 'Pokes not about to let this get away.

Missouri 49 - BAYLOR 17 - (12:30) -- Loved it! Tigs came storming back with
58-0 shutout of Colorado, behind 5 more Daniel TDs (32-of-38). Now at 42
ppg last 22 outings. Bears still moving it behind Griffin, who checked in at 7.6
ypr in loss to Neb, but the fav is 6-0 ATS in Baylor hosters by 109 pts. Again!

Auburn 20 - MISSISSIPPI 19 - (12:30) -- Seven straight line losses for Tigs, who
were outgunned at WVa LW. Stagnant "O", but 13th best "D" resulting in very
tight games, with their SEC tilts decided by 1, 5, 2, 1, 3 pts SU. Won't run on
Rebs, who are in off 2 wrenchers. Dog is +58 pts ATS in last 5 OleMiss gms.

WYOMING 27 - San Diego State 24 - (2:00) -- Wise Points explains meaning of
this score. 'Pokes, unbelievably, haven't' come within single digits of the spread
all year. Are 0-15 ATS, with a 207-30 pt deficit last 5 tilts. Henderson breathed
life into SDSt LW (188 RYs), but Aztecs lost last 3 RGs by 48-9 ppg. Scary.

WESTERN MICHIGAN 37 - Eastern Michigan 24 - (2:00) -- Broncs rested off
having 6-game run snapped, despite a 471-PY effort from Hiller. Not much,
overland (<53 yds 3 of last 4), so EM, which is +27 pts ATS on the MAC road,
& which is in off an admirable 163 rushing "D" vs BallSt, may just hang around.

Tulsa 48 - ARKANSAS 31 - (2:00) -- Realize 'Canes are stepping up in class, &
that they lost their last RG by 18 pts ATS, but can see no reason not to light it
up vs Hogs' 106th ranked scoring "D". Arkies have allowed 36 ppg in their last
11 lined affairs, so despite running of Smith (487 yds last 3 wks), it's the 'Canes.

TEXAS A&M 27 - Colorado 26 - (2:00) -- Buffs in off first shutout loss in 242
games. Certainly a scoring midget, at 13 ppg last 6 games, & at 57 RYpg 3 of
last 4. Ags off much needed win over IowaSt, behind 4 Johnson TDs, but note
allowing 34 FDs & 583 yds to Cyclones' previously 93rd rated "O". Interested?

Pittsburgh 27 - NOTRE DAME 24 - (2:30 - NBC) -- Pitt allowed 6 TD tosses in
54-34 loss to Rutgers, despite 486-442 yd edge, thereby snapping 5-gm win
streak. McCoy last 4: 593 RYs. Irish QB Clausen at 1,206 PYs (9/3) last 4,
while "D" ceding 18 ppg last 8 tilts. But Pitt covered last 2 RGs by 18½ &18.

LOUISIANA TECH 30 - Fresno State 27 - (2:30) -- Talk about living on borrowed
time. FSt in off winning on 58-yd FG on final play, with 5 of last 6 decided by 3,
1, 5, 3, 2 pts SU. No rushing "D", & on 0-6 ATS slide, despite 5-2 SU log. The
host is 7-0 ATS in Tech games by 85½ pts, & LT can move it overland. Upset.

Hawaii 24 - UTAH STATE 21 - (3:00) -- Wrenching loss for Ags (Fresno), after
taking lead in final 0:38. Rank #100 on "O", but host is 5-0 ATS by 56 pts in Ag
tilts. A 308-452 RY deficit for 'Bows LW, & a 263-145 pt deficit last 8 lined tilts.

SOUTH CAROLINA 22 - Tennessee 19 - (7:00) -- 'Cocks rested off having 4-gm
run snapped. Own 6th best "D" in land, & well remember LY's heartbreak, but
can't run (64 ypg last 3), so not to be trusted. Ditto Vols, who are at 78 RYpg
last 6 outings, & at 11 ppg 5 of last 6, but have 11th best "D". Visiting series.

Florida 37 - Georgia 20 - (3:30 - CBS - @ Jacksonville) -- Had Gators on both
RedSheet & Phones, but not high enuff in 63-5 rout of KY. Have a 152-33 pt
edge since loss to OleMiss, & chalk now 10-2 ATS in Fla tilts. Moreno off 172,
163 RY gms for 'Dawgs, but note GA allowing 500 yds LW. Color it revenge!

SO CALIFORNIA 60 - Washington 6 - (3:30) -- Katie, bar the door! Catching the
Trojans off narrow escape not the healthiest of propositions for Huskies, who
have yet to win (0-7), & who allowed 252 RYs to NoDame's previously 109th
ranked run "O". SC has a 154-20 pt edge since loss to OregSt. Over already!

OKLAHOMA 61 - Nebraska 27 - (5:00) -- Sure, 'Huskers QB Ganz has thrown
for 1,013 yds last 3 wks, & stands at 26/6 for the season. And sure, Neb is
+35 pts ATS in its 2 RGs. Sure, sure, sure. But Okies in off setting school
record with 55 first-half pts, despite mere 13-of-32 for Bradford. A slaughter.

Oregon 33 - CALIFORNIA 30 - (3:30) -- Fifteen takeaways in Bears' 5 wins, with
another 4 LW, turning tight game vs Ucla, into 41-20 win. RB Best a keeper,
but QBing is a ? Ducks back on track, with 54-20 rout of ArizSt (537 yds), &
now at 44 ppg in 19 of last 21 tilts. Healthy at QB, & remember LY's tuff loss.

NAVY 30 - Temple 17 - (3:30 - CBSC) -- Not a single pass thrown in Navy's 417
RY edge vs SMU (15-pt cover). Thus, Owls, who've allowed 36, 91, 55, & 47
RYs last 4 games, have their work cut out. Just 143 yds for Temple last week.

KANSAS 41 - Kansas State 27 - (12:30) -- Consecutive setbacks for KU, while
allowing 108 pts, 65 FDs, & 1,230 yds. Reesing just 2/3 vs TexTech, a 42-pt
home loss, both SU & ATS. But 'Cats allowed similar 116 pts to those same 2
teams. In off 5 TO deficit, but visitor is 5-0 ATS in KSt games by 54 pts ATS.

TEXAS TECH 47 - Texas 45 - (8:00) -- Raiders entered LW's game with Kansas
at 418 PYpg. That's right, an exact 418 PYs for Harrell (5 TDs, & 26/5 for the
year) in that 63-21 annihilation. 'Horn QB McCoy at 21/4 & 82% for the year, &
how about astounding 87% last 2 wks. Revenge call in this ultimate shootout.

PURDUE 20 - Michigan 17 - (12:00) -- Don't get near this. Wolves in off 39-0 &
21-0 deficits to wind up last 2 games, rank 107th on "O", & 3 more INTs for QB
Threet LW. And how about a 118-55 pt deficit in last 3 RGs? Boilers may have
lost QB Painter (arm) in loss to Minny, so it just may be RB Sheets or nothing.

MICHIGAN STATE 38 - Wisconsin 17 - (12:00) -- Yes, we know full well, that the
Spartans dropped their last HG, 45-7, but 5 TO greased the skids. Back on
track now, with another 194 RYs for Ringer LW (1,157 last 7). Badgers have
been stung for 31, 38, 38, 34, 27, & 38 pts in their last 6 Big10 RGs. Romper

Clemson 22 - BOSTON COLLEGE 17 - (3:30) -- New coach for rested Tigers
(Swinney). Just 21 & 51 RYs last 2 outings, & no Spiller. But long memories
of 3 straight wrenching losses to BC. Eags saw 10-0 lead over UNC, turn into
45-17 deficit. Eleven TOs last 3, 61 RYpg last 2, & QB Crane a project. Tigs!

San Jose State 31 - IDAHO 17 - (5:00) -- Only TDs for Spartans vs Boise came
on INT return & 60-yd run. Decent "D", but 101st ranked "O". Signs of life in
Vandal camp: 215, 271 RYs 2 of last 3 (McCarty: 160 LW), thus hope survives.

Byu 30 - COLORADO STATE 20 - (6:00) -- Nearly 2 straight losses for Coogs,
off 16-gm run, with 4th Hall TD (in last 1:46) providing winning margin vs Unlv.
Minus 39 pts ATS last 2. Rams can't run, & can't stop the run (226 yds for
SDSt's 120th ranked rushing "O" LW), but they're +30 pts ATS in last 3 HGs.

STANFORD 54 - Washington State 13 - (5:00) -- Time for Cardinal to take full
advantage of the gift that is WashSt. Stanford: 229 RYpg last 5, with Gerhart
at 779. And check 13 TOs in Cards' 4 losses. Coogs rested off worst loss in
school history (69-0), & in possession of 54-9 ppg deficit in lined affairs this yr.

Boise State 38 - NEW MEXICO STATE 10 - (7:00) -- No question that Broncos
playing their best ball on the road TY. Have held 5 of 7 foes to 7 pts or less, &
in off 9 FD "D" showing at SanJoseSt (39:26-20:34 time edge). Ag QB Holbrook
LW: 79% (37-of-47), but just 14, 14 pts last 2 weeks. A home series no more.

MISSISSIPPI STATE 20 - Kentucky 16 - (2:30) -- Bulldogs have been outstatted
by all SEC foes except Vandy, & have yet to reach 170 RYs in a lined affair. But
UK is hurting at RB & DB, with resultant 66-5 loss to Florida a far cry from their
previously 4th rated scoring "D". Covered 1st 2 RGs by 40½ pts. Ends here.

GEORGIA TECH 24 - Florida State 23 - (3:30) -- Jackets let us down, big time,
in 24-17 loss to Virginia, but they still own a 1,465-639 RY edge in lined games.
'Noles KO'ed VaTech's first 2 QBs in LW's win. Check 6 sacks for nation's #3
"D" in that one. QB Ponder, RB Smith, along with that defense, takes it to wire.

LSU 34 - Tulane 10 - (8:00) -- Call this along lines of LY's Tiger win. Bayous ran
for 188 yds vs GA's #3 rush "D" (Scott: 144 yds), but were killed by 3 Lee INTs,
including 1 taken in for TD on game's 1st play. The Wave came from 318 RYs
to 34 in a week, thus the dog is now 6-1 ATS in Greenie games, by 104½ pts.

Tcu 38 - UNLV 10 - (8:00 - CBSC) -- Rebs on 4-game slide, blowing 4th quarter
leads in last 3 (final 1:46 LW, despite 321 PYs from Clayton). Move the ball,
but maybe not here, as Frogs rank #1 on "D", holding 7 foes to 7 pts or less. An
82-14 pt edge last 2 wks, but a 10-pt ATS loss in last RG. But can't buck 'em.

SO MISSISSIPPI 33 - Uab 27 - (8:00) -- Five straight losses for SoMiss, allowing
516 yds to a Memphis squad, which is down to its 3rd string QB. Balanced on
"O" (#17), but can't stop anyone. Blazers also own moldy "D" (31 ppg last 13),
& Webb has 5 INTs last 2 wks, but Uab normally close to the spot. Tite series.

Rice 48 - UTEP 45 - (9:00) -- Shootout alert! Owls' Clement has thrown for 15
TDs the past 4 games, while Rebs' Vittatoe checks in with 14 in his last 4 tilts.
Utep has a 36-35 ppg edge in its last 15 games, but saw a 28-21 lead turn into
a 77-35 loss in its last outing (Tulsa). Owls: 42 or more pts 5 times this year.

Utah 28 - NEW MEXICO 24 - (9:30) -- Rested Utes are cruising at 8-0 so far,
averaging 41 ppg in their last 7, behind QB Johnson's leadership. But may not
be all that easy here, as the Lobos are plus 77 pts ATS in their last 3 HGs, &
check 271 RYpg in their last 4 gms. Not involved, but give Lobos bit of a peek.

OREGON STATE 44 - Arizona State 17 - (10:15) -- Let's see. Five straight wins
& covers (by 91 pts ATS) for the Beavers, compared to five straight losses for
the Devils (-69 pts ATS). Only 64 RYpg in Suns' last 4 outings, & Carpenter
just 10/6 for the season. Rodgers duet aids in extending home trend of series.

SUNDAY
East Carolina 27 - CENTRAL FLORIDA 26 - (8:00 - ESPN) -- Pirates had an
extra week to prepare for this, while the Knights are in off battling Tulsa. The dog
is 7-1 ATS in ECU games of late, with Pirates minus 42 pts ATS in their last 3
RGs. UCF down a huge notch this year, but has covered it 2 HGs. This to wire.

TUESDAY
BUFFALO 24 - Miami-Ohio 23 - (7:30 - ESPN2) -- Bulls surely needed their bye
week, following a pair of OT contests. The dog is the way to go with both teams:
6-0 ATS in UB games, & 16-5 ATS in MU contests. Tight series, so we go along.

WEDNESDAY
BALL STATE 27 - Northern Illinois 20 - (8:00 - ESPNU) -- Cards now 8-0 (best
start in more than 4 decades). Balanced behind QB Davis (15/5), but just +2
pts ATS at home. NIU's "D": only 3 offensive TDs allowed in last 25 quarters.

AKRON 34 - Toledo 28 - (8:00 - ESPN2) -- Not much breathing room in Zip tilts
(2, 3, 4, 7 pt SU margins last 4). Exploded for 339 RYs vs EM (Kennedy: 277).
Rockets stayed with Central, but lost their last RG by 22 pts ATS. Mild Zip call.

ADDED GAMES
WESTERN KY 41 - North Texas 10
ALABAMA 39 - Arkansas State 10
Fla International 27 - LAFAYETTE 24
Troy 35 - LA-MONROE 21

Pointwise NFL Write-ups

BUFFALO over New York Jets RATING: 3
TAMPA BAY over Kansas City RATING: 4
MINNESOTA over Houston RATING: 4
NEW YORK GIANTS over Dallas RATING: 5
WASHINGTON over Pittsburgh RATING: 5

MINNESOTA 34 - Houston 24 - (1:00) -- Vikes had LW off, while the Texans
were recording their franchise-record 3rd straight win, holding a combined FD
edge of 75-45 in those 3. Of course, it must be noted that their victims have a
cumulative record of 3-17. Schaub: 24-of-28 for 280 yds & 3 TDs vs Cincy.
Houston entered that one with a 31 ppg "D" in their previous 8 tilts, so expect
Minny, which piled up 439 yds in 48-41 loss to Chicago, to take advantage,
altho Frerotte can't throw another 4 INTs, as he did vs the Bears. Vikes 7-1
ATS off bye, vs foe off a win, while Texans just 17-26 ATS vs non-division foes.

Jacksonville 20 - CINCINNATI 16 - (1:00) -- As we keep writing, whenever the
Jags take the field, the dog is the only play. The pup is now on a 9-0 ATS run,
which includes 6 SU upsets in their 7 games to date. Can Cincy continue that
trend? Well, it may have a shot at the cover, but can't see any outright upset,
with Bengals' pitiful "O", which ranks 30th or worse in all categories. Try a
1,175-616 RY deficit so far. The Jags have a 49-34 FD edge the past 2 wks,
rushing for 391 yds in those 2. They are 7-1 ATS in this series of late, but note
their feeble 6-16 ATS log as RFs. We hold our noses, & pull lever for Bengals.

Tampa Bay 23 - KANSAS CITY 10 - (1:00) -- Quite a dilemma here, as the Bucs'
last 5 RGs have been decided by just 2, 4, 3, 3, & 4 pts SU. Thus an 8-pt spot
surely begs for a dog call. However, the Chiefs are hardly the opponent in
which to jump in with, as they've dropped 15 of their last 16 on the field, and
the SU winner in Tampa games has covered to the tune of 23-1-2 lately, with
the only miss by ½ pt, in last Sunday Night's win over Seattle. And the SU
winner is 15-1 ATS in the Chiefs' last 16 games vs the NFC South. KC lost its
last HG by 15 pts ATS, and owns the worst rushing "D" in the NFL. The Bucs.

CLEVELAND 19 - Baltimore 16 - (1:00) -- Brownies did it with smoke & mirrors
in upset of the Jags, despite 23-15 FD & 10-minute time deficits. But note that
it was just the latest in a continuous stream of impressive defensive showings
by Cleveland, which has held 9 of its last 11 foes below 20 pts. Thus, a 16-5
spread run by the Browns. Ravens again field a splendid "D", which has held
5 of its 7 foes to 10, 10, 13, 13, & 10 pts. And check a 332-118 RY edge in
Baltimore's last 2 games. Revenger for the Browns, who won 27-13 here LY,
& who are 22-8 ATS off scoring 23+ pts. Ravens just 4-9 ATS on division road.

BUFFALO 27 - New York Jets 17 - (1:00) -- Three more Brett INTs in the Jets'
narrow escape vs lowly KansasCity. He has now thrown 11 picks, which is
offset by his 15 TDs to date. NY is in off the triad of Cincy, Oakland, & KC
(combined record of 3-19), so definitely moving up in class, & this isn't the
place in which to get reacquainted with the NFL upper echelon. Favre played
here in '06, losing 24-10 win the Pack. Bills are on a 19-11 ATS run, with
Edwards a solid 25-of-30 in his last HG, a 23-14 win over the Chargers. And
note that Buffalo is a brilliant 17-2 ATS as a Nov host vs all foes off a SU win.

ST LOUIS 30 - Arizona 27 - (1:00) -- Kurt Warner returns home. First loss for
Rams under Haslett, but a ½ pt cover vs the Pats (along with a 10-yd stat
edge), so that's a perfect 3-0 ATS of late. Note that StLouis' first 2 covers in
this mini-run came by 42 pts. The Cards welcomed WR Boldin back, & he
responded with 9 catches, & a couple of TDs, in tight loss to the Panthers.
Warner: 381 PYs LW, & now at 14/6 for the season. 'Zona is on a 20-10-1
ATS run, & is averaging 31 ppg in its last 15 games, thus the Rams, who've
allowed 32.3 ppg in their last 10 gms have their work cut out. Mildest of calls.

CHICAGO 33 - Detroit 16 - (1:00) -- Revenge affair for the Lions, who took it on
the chin, in first meeting, a 34-7 loss, with a 425-185 yd deficit, & that was in
Detroit. Lions on a 1-14 SU slide, have a 69-36 FD deficit in their last 3 games,
& are allowing 32.6 ppg in their last 13 tilts. Rank 32nd, 32nd, 31st, & 31st in
scoring, total, rushing, & passing defense, respectively. And with Orton, who
is in off QB ratings of 121.4 & 114.5 in his past 2 games, the Bears have the
weapon they needed. Dog is 7-2-1 ATS in Bear games, but Chicago is 7-2-1
ATS itself lately, & 15-7 ATS in division play. Spread is a bear, & so is Chicago.

TENNESSEE 27 - Green Bay 17 - (1:00) -- Obviously, we don't have the result
of the Titans' Monday Night battle with Indy, but as of this writing, Tennessee is
the only perfect team in the NFL. And it has been that defense, which ranks
#3, that has been the catalyst. No team has reached 18 pts in the Titans' last
10 games, & they've posted a 5-0-1 ATS log thus far, by 67½ pts. The Pack is
rested off 34-14 rout of the Colts, thanks to a 4-0 TO edge (302 yds apiece), &
Rodgers stands at 12/4 for the season. Tennessee is 12-4 ATS as a HF vs the
NFC, while GreenBay is 1-11 on Nov road off a DD win. Titans keep it going.

DENVER 33 - Miami 27 - (4:05) -- Broncos far from the most dependable team
around, with their only cover in their last 6 games coming by a single pt. It has
been that defense, which has been their bane, & that includes their Monday
Night debacle vs the Pats, in which they allowed 41 pts & over 400 yds. An
injured finger did Cutler in in that lambasting, but he is expected to be ready for
this one. The Dolphs have been super of late, & the dog has now covered their
last 5 games, by 80 pts! Chad: 104-of-139 (75%) in those 5, with Ginn off 175
receiving yds (25.0 ypc). But Shanahan: 12-1 ATS off bye vs non-division foe.

OAKLAND 19 - Atlanta 16 - (4:15) -- Admittedly, calling for an outright win for
these embattled Raiders is more than a bit risky. Afterall, they are in off a 10
FD, 192-47 RY deficit in their feeble effort at Baltimore (29-10 setback). Not
only that, but Oakland is averaging only 11.8 ppg in its last 4 outings (9.7 ppg
in its last 3). However, the Falcons have been consistent when taking to the
road, as they've allowed 24, 24, 24, & 27 pts as guests thus far, and they've
been held below 100 RYs in each of their last 2 games. And note that the
Raiders did win their last HG (OT vs the Jets). Can't step out, but Raider call.

NEW YORK GIANTS 27 - Dallas 10 - (4:15) -- More than a few snickers, when
we released the Cowboys as a 3* Phone Play LW, but they managed to come
squeaking in vs the Bucs. Johnson: from 0/3 to 1/0. But just 70 RYs for the
'Boys, who've impressed, overland, just 3 times all year. Playoff Revenge is
front-&-center, & catching the Giants off Steeler war is a plus, as is the fact that
NY has managed just 273 & 284 yds the past 2 wks. But that "D" should do a
job on Johnson & Co. Cowboys are 0-7 RDs off a SU/ATS win vs an opponent
also off a SU/ATS victory. Last week's Dallas success, is short-lived, indeed.

Philadelphia 23 - SEATTLE 10 - (4:15) -- Seahawks snapped their 3-game slide
with 34-13 rout of the Niners, but a closer look shows 21-14 FD, 124-39 RY, &
388-261 TY deficits. Sure, Wallace connected on 43-yd & 62-yd TD passes,
but he is no Hasselbeck. The Eagles came thru for us, in miraculous fashion,
with Westbrook taking it 39 yds to the bank in the final 1:51. Nice 167 RYs for
Brian (7.6 ypr) upon his return. Have to see that Philly "D" dominating the 27th
rated "O" of the 'Hawks. Eags 16-10 ATS as RFs vs NFC foes, while Seattle is
6-15 ATS off a SU division rd win. Philly just can't let games like this get away.

INDIANAPOLIS 24 - New England 13 - (8:15 - NBC) -- Pats settling into pattern
of covering every other week, but, altho they catch the Colts off their Monday
Nighter vs the Titans, that trend should end here. Sure looked super in their
destruction of Denver 2 Mondays ago, & on 2-game run. But needed a Cassel
TD in final 3:13 for home win over StLouis, and remember that they lost their
last RG by a 30-10 count: 15 pts ATS. In sharp contrast, the host has covered
the last 2 games involving the Colts, by 45 pts. We know Indy can't run it, but
didn't stop them from a 31-3 wipeout of highly respectable Ravens in last HG.

MONDAY
WASHINGTON 22 - Pittsburgh 16 - (8:35 - ESPN) -- Only 2 losses apiece for
these two '07 playoff squads, with 3 of those 4 setbacks, interestingly enough,
coming vs NFC East teams, including both Steeler misses (15-6 at the Eagles, &
21-14 vs the Giants). That's a mere 10 ppg for Pitt in those 2. Ben: 5 sacks & 4
INTs vs NY. The visitor is 5-0 ATS by 45 pts in 'Skin games of late, but note a
1,158-508 RY edge for Washington so far, with Portis at 944 yds, & QB Campbell
at 8/0. The Redskin "D" has held 17 foes to 20 pts or less since LY, so Pitt's 24th
rated "O" will be hard-pressed here. We'll lay the 2½ pt spot, & call Monday host.

GOLD SHEET--College

THE GOLD SHEET


KEY RELEASES

VIRGINIA by 9 over Miami-Florida
MINNESOTA by 17 over Northwestern
TEXAS A&M by 14 over Colorado
SOUTH CAROLINA by 17 over Tennessee


VIRGINIA 28 - Miami-Florida 19—Acknowledge young Hurricanes’
recent uptick, as well as their desire to pay back Virginia for LY’s humiliating
home loss in final game ever at storied Orange Bowl. Still, prefer to support
cohesive Cavalier bunch that’s in ACC Coastal driver’s seat after 4 straight
victories. Rapidly-maturing soph QB Verica (72% during win streak) &
relentless sr. RB Peerman lead victory at Charlottesville, where host UVa is 28-
12 its last 40 vs. spread.
(07-Va. 48-MIAMI 0...V.21-9 V.39/130 M.39/95 V.20/25/1/288 M.9/21/3/94 V.0 M.2)
(07-Virginia +3' 48-0 06-VIRGINIA +3 17-7 05-MIAMI -17' 25-17...SR: Miami-Fla. 3-2





MINNESOTA 34 - Northwestern 17—Northwestern could be without
both star RB Sutton (wrist surgery) and QB Bacher (hamstring injury at Indiana)
in addition to MLB Arrington (knee) in this game. Moreover, Wildats run into
resurgent, hot Minny side that’s covered 6 straight and owns the most prolific
pass combo in Big Ten with QB Adam Weber and WR Eric Decker. Bacher
(assuming he can go) has thrown 10 ints. & just 7 TD passes in his last 5 games,
and the Gophers lead the nation in turnover margin. Gophers shooting for first
January game since ’62 Rose Bowl. TV—ESPN2
(07-NW 49-Minn. 48 (OT)...N.28-26 M.44/239 N.28/119 N.41/59/0/470 M.25/38/2/341 N.1 M.0)
(07-NORTHWESTERN -6' 49-48 (OT)...SR: Minnesota 49-29-5)




*SOUTH CAROLINA 27 - Tennessee 10—With UT’s embroiled HC
Fulmer’s “hot seat” sizzling following another listless offensive showing in 29-9
Knoxville loss vs. Bama, must support rested, double-revenge-minded USC,
primed to snap aggravating 4-game home losing streak vs. SEC foes. ‘Cocks
parsimonious defense (SEC-low 256 ypg; 16 ppg) sets up favorable field
position for emerging, mobile QB Garcia, who is already much more efficient than
Vols shaky soph counterpart Stephens (no meaningful TD vs. Tide). TV—ESPN2
(07-TENN. 27-S. Car. 24 (OT)...S.31-16 S.39/171 T.28/101 S.34/50/2/330 T.26/45/1/216 T.0 S.2)
(07-TENN. -3 27-24 (OT) 06-Tenn. -3' 31-24 05-Usc +13' 16-15...SR: Tennessee 21-3-2)





TEXAS A&M 38 - Colorado 24—Quick-footed true frosh QB Tyler
Hansen (16 for 30 rushing, 12 of 16 for 72 YP) got his first start for Colorado in
last week’s 58-0 blasting by Mizzou. He’s way behind rapidly-developing 6-5
A&M soph Jerrod Johnson, who ran Mike Sherman’s West Coast offense like
a pro at Iowa State, hitting 31 of 39 for 381 YP for 4 TDs, despite the Aggies’
makeshift receiving corps. Sherman still searching for more defense, however.
(05-COLORADO -3 41-20...SR: Colorado 5-2)






THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30
*South Florida 28 - CINCINNATI 20—Well-coached Bearcats usually a
tough nut to crack as underdog, and home-lovin’ USF has been sub-par play vs.
spread on road lately. But with Cincy’s QB situation muddled (see Special
Ticker), HUGE edge under center possessed by Bulls with jr. gunslinger Grothe
might ultimately be too much for host to overcome. The überconfident Grothe
hit 11 different receivers for his 344 YP at Louisville last week, while bumbling
Bearcat offense was 0 of 14 on third down during ugly loss at UConn. CABLE
TV—ESPN
(07-Cincy 38-S. FLA. 33...S.27-14 C.38/137 S.37/99 S.31/54/4/382 C.14/32/1/238 C.1 S.4)
(07-Cincy +5 38-33 06-CINCY +1' 23-6 05-USF -20 31-16...SR: Cincinnati 3-2)



SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
BOWLING GREEN 26 - Kent State 24—Return to form of Kent RB Eugene
Jarvis (105 YR, 4 rush TDs vs. Miami) indicates Flashes capable of hanging
within number vs. BG side that can’t run (107th in rushing) and has problems
stopping the run (97th). Falcons have dropped 12 of last 14 spread decisions at
home, and Jarvis had 168 YR and 3 scores against BG in ’07. Visitor 8-0 vs.
number TY in Falcons’ games.
(07-B. Green 31-KENT ST. 20...K.19-18 K.56/254 B.31/197 B.14/25/0/184 K.8/13/0/128 B.0 K.1)
(07-Bgu +5 31-20 06-Ksu +7 38-3 05-Bgu -11 24-14...SR: Bowling Green 53-16-6)



INDIANA 36 - Central Michigan 27—CMU welcomed back MAC MVP QB
Dan LeFevour from injury last week, and he looked sharp (24 of 31 for 242 YP
vs. Toledo). Conversely, Indiana has been playing without starting QB Kellen
Lewis (ankle), but upset Northwestern last week with soph Ben Chappell at the
controls (219 YP). Hoosier defense looked improved in holding NW’s spread
attack to just a pair of TDs, and a win here keeps Indiana in bowl picture.
(05-Ind. -7' 20-13...SR: Indiana 3-0)



Air Force 20 - ARMY 17—Don’t look now, but Army one of nation’s hottest
teams vs. spread (covered last 5!) since HC Stan Brock went “back to the
future” and reinstalled the old option offense that worked so well in ‘80s and ‘90s
at West Point. Meanwhile, switch to true frosh QB Jefferson (completed 1 pass
last week vs. Lobos) not exactly balancing Air Force version of option. Black
Knight “D” (allowing only 15 ppg last 4) robust by academy standards. CABLE
TV—ESPNU
(07-AFA 30-Army 10...Af.24-10 Af.67/437 Ar.26/17 Ar.14/33/0/164 Af.9/12/1/105 Af.0 Ar.0)
(07-AFA -16' 30-10 06-Afa -6 43-7 05-Army +11' 27-24...SR: Air Force 28-13-1)




*Louisville 35 - SYRACUSE 13—Cardinals fell victim to one of the biggest
upsets in college football history during LY’s meeting at Louisville. Strongarmed
sr. QB Cantwell & mesmerizing RS frosh RB Victor Anderson (727 YR on
6.4 ypc) help resurgent Cards avenge that loss and drive another nail into good-asgone
HC Greg Robinson’s coffin at staggering Syracuse (only 1 cover in last 8 as
home dog). TV—ESPNU
(07-Syr. 38-LVL. 35...L.37-16 L.28/73 S.35/42 L.45/65/2/555 S.17/26/0/423 S.2 L.2)
(07-Syr. +37 38-35 06-Lvl. -17' 28-13 05-LVL. -36 41-17...SR: Syracuse 4-3)




CONNECTICUT 20 - West Virginia 19—Most of well-regarded HC Edsall’s
off-season tweaks to UConn defense were designed to counteract recent
carnage inflicted on Huskies by quick-striking West Virginia offense. Mounties
not as potent TY, so even if UConn still down to 3rd-string QB (see Special
Ticker), host’s hot streak at Hartford (11 straight victories, 15-5 vs. spread last
20 on line) might continue.
(07-W. VA. 66-Conn. 21...W.26-22 W.52/517 C.50/203 C.18/34/0/189 W.9/13/1/107 W.0 C.3)
(07-WVA -19 66-21 06-Wva -23 37-11 05-WVA -15 45-13...SR: West Virginia 4-0)




Iowa 24 - ILLINOIS 20—Iowa has beaten Illinois 5 straight times, and rested
Hawkeyes are one of the surprises in the Big Ten this season, thanks to RB
Shonn Greene’s 144 ypg rushing and 10 TDs. The Illini have intercepted only
3 passes all year (none in the last 6 games), and QB Juice Williams was held
in check at Wisconsin last week. Iowa QB Stanzi has completed 66% with 5
TDPs & just 2 ints. in last 5 games. Hawkeye defense is 5th in scoring and pass
efficiency. REG. TV—ABC
(07-IOWA 10-Ill. 6...Ia.21-15 Ia.47/141 Il.35/137 Ia.17/25/0/182 Il.12/20/1/150 Ia.1 Il.1)
(07-IOWA +4 10-6 06-Iowa -21 24-7 05-IOWA -18' 35-7...SR: Illinois 37-29-2)




WAKE FOREST 23 - Duke 20—Absolutely no interest in laying substantial
points with Wake (just 4-14 as home chalk since ‘03), as discombobulated
Deacon offense has produced only 2 TDs in first 4 ACC games. Duke QB Lewis
has fired 31 TDP & only 13 ints. last 1+ seasons, and 4-3 Blue Devils will battle
hard to boost surprising bowl hopes.
(07-W. For. 41-DUKE 36...W.18-16 W.42/115 D.31/95 D.21/47/2/291 W.22/30/1/221 W.0 D.0)
(07-Wfu -7' 41-36 06-WFU -20' 14-13 05-Wfu -13' 44-6...SR: Duke 53-33-2)




OKLAHOMA STATE 51 - Iowa State 13—With OSU’s defense much
improved in second year under coordinator Tim Beckman, believe Cowboys
can overcome the disappointment of their 28-24 loss in Austin. ISU has lost six
straight, yielding 34 or more in last five. Mike Gundy 9-0 last nine as a DD
favorite (He’s “a man!”).REG. TV—ABC
(05-IOWA STATE -14 37-10...SR: Oklahoma State 23-17-3)



Missouri 44 - BAYLOR 20—Missouri re-established its ground game last
week (189 YR vs. Colorado) after generating only 64 & 30 YR in back-to-back
losses to Oklahoma State & Texas. Thus, prone to lay the points with sr. Chase
Daniel (77%, 23 TDs, 6 ints.) and Tigers, who have covered four straight as a
road favorite. Dynamic frosh QB Robert Griffin has the Baylor offense
ascending; defense still shorthanded vs. premium foes.
(05-MISSOURI -9 31-16...SR: Missouri 9-2)



MISSISSIPPI 26 - Auburn 17—Since struggling Auburn (3 straight losses
for 1st time since ‘99!) still lacks any identity on offense (running spread with
more I-formation), favor chemistry-rich Ole Miss, eager to snap 4-game series
losing streak. Rebels own much more big-play capability with quick-releasing
QB Snead (1673 YP, 12 TDs), who is able to run play-action against a faltering
Tiger defense that allowed a whopping 445 yds. in 34-17 defeat at WV. AU’s
unpolished QB Burns & RBs well-contained by Rebels aggressive front 7 (just
3.1 ypc). Tuberville’s tottering troops just 1-8 vs. spread last 9.
(07-AUB. 17-Miss. 3...A.22-15 A.48/231 M.29/70 A.16/26/0/189 M.14/28/1/123 A.1 M.0)
(07-AUBURN -18 17-3 06-Auburn -18' 23-17 05-AUBURN -20' 27-3...SR: Auburn 24-8)




WYOMING 31 - San Diego State 24—The only thing we’re sure about in this
snoozer is that Chris Fowler, Lee Corso, and Kirk Herbstreit will not be in Laramie
this week. True, Wyo going on 14 months since its last cover (0-15-1 last 16 vs.
line!), but not even Cowboys feeble enough to rank last in both national rush “O”
and rush “D” stats at midseas,on as did SDSU. And since Wyo actually owns 2
home wins TY, anti-Aztec argument a slightly easier sell.
(07-S. DIEGO ST. 27-Wyo. 24...W.18-16 W.47/91 S.24/58 S.20/45/2/249 W.22/30/1/159 S.0 W.0)
(07-SDS +4 27-24 06-WYO. -15 27-24 05-SDS -7' 34-21...SR: Wyoming 15-14)




WESTERN MICHIGAN 38 - Eastern Michigan 28—WMU QB Hiller has
been on fire (1163 YP, 10 TD passes last 3 games), but Broncos have yielded
64 points in last 2 and rank 90th in pass defense. EMU defense even more
terrible, but Eagle QB Andy Schmitt has engineered a win at Bowling Green and
a cover at Ball State this season, and has thrown for 567 yards & 5 TDs in last
2 games.
(07-E. MICH. 19-W. Mich. 2...E.21-13 E.52/255 W.23/53 W.13/27/3/146 E.15/28/1/137 E.0 W.3)
(07-EMU +5 19-2 06-WMU -15 18-15 05-Wmu -3' 44-36...SR: W. Michigan 26-14-2)




Tulsa 38 - ARKANSAS 34—Though ranked Tulsa stepping up in class after
competing in defensively-shy C-USA, still support BCS-hopeful Golden
Hurricane in last major hurdle for an undefeated season. Highly-explosive
Tulsa attack (56 ppg), led by dynamic QB David Johnson (69%, 31 TDs), should
continue to prosper vs. immature, yielding Arkansas defense (SEC-worst 360
ypg & 32 ppg). Hogs workhorse RB M. Smith (920 YR) gets his yards, but not
enough to cover number at home, where UA is 1-5 as a dog since ‘05.
(DNP...SR: Arkansas 51-16-3)




NOTRE DAME 31 - Pittsburgh 20—Panther defense was ranked first in Big
East (and No. 10 in nation) against the pass last week before being summarily
shredded for 6 TDP in home loss to Rutgers. Pitt’s scintillating soph McCoy
(835 YR & 14 TDs) is best RB on field by far, but grooving Irish soph QB Clausen
(1206 YP & 9 TDP with only 3 ints. in last 4 games) & blossoming true frosh WR
Floyd likely to heap more abuse on Panther secondary. TV—NBC
(05-Notre Dame +3 42-21...SR: Notre Dame 44-18-1)



Fresno State 23 - LOUISIANA TECH 22—Ruston ain’t Baton Rouge, but La
Tech is one different Bulldog at home (3-0 SU). And Sarah Palin had yet to become
the official GOP VP nominee the last time Fresno covered a game (Sept. 1).
Although slowed by rain at Army, LT “O” previously showed lots of life behind new
QB ******* in last home game vs. Idaho. Fresno turning Pat Hill’s hair and fu
manchu gray after series of nailbiters (4 decided by 3 or fewer!).
(07-FRES. ST. 17-La. Tech 6...L.21-14 F.43/170 L.38/100 L.23/49/0/182 F.8/22/1/92 F.0 L.0)
(07-FSU -12 17-6 06-Fsu -13 34-27 05-Tech +22' 40-28...SR: Fresno State 7-2)



Hawaii 30 - UTAH STATE 27—Acknowledge recent Hawaii uptick (3-1 SU,
4-0 vs. line last 4) that, if nothing else, has bowl organizers in Honolulu excited
that Warriors might save the live gate for Sheraton Bowl at Aloha Stadium. But
not too comfy recommending UH if Greg McMackin continues his QB merry-goround
(used Funaki, Graunke, and Alexander last week vs. Nevada) on road. USU
and livewire QB Borel still battling hard for under-fire HC Guy.
(07-HI. 52-Utah St. 37...H.23-21 U.44/123 H.19/47 H.28/38/1/465 U.21/29/0/247 H.0 U.1)
(07-HAWAII -39' 52-37 06-Hawaii -26' 63-10 05-HAWAII -17 50-23...SR: EVEN 4-4)




Florida 38 - Georgia 30—With this heavyweight SEC showdown probably
deciding the East Division champ, will side with healthy, hummin’ Florida
(outscored last 3 foes 152-33), eager to avenge LY’s painful 42-30 loss (see
Looking for an Angle). Respect UGA’s terrific triumverate of QB Stafford, RB
Moreno & WR A.J. Green. But believe Gators imaginative attack—featuring QB
Tebow (leads SEC in pass efficiency), WR Harvin (at least one TDC in 5 straight
games) & burgeoning frosh RBs Demps & Rainey—make a few more gamechanging
plays vs. Bulldog 2ndary that’s allowed 13 TDP (UF only 5). Also,
mistake-producing Gators (+10 TO margin), which is excelling on STs (4blocked punts TY; 40 for Meyer-coached teams), haven’t dropped two straight
in series since ‘89. (at Jacksonville, FL) TV—CBS
(07-Georgia 42-Florida 30...19-19 G.44/196 F.35/107 F.14/22/0/236 G.11/18/1/217 G.0 F.2)
(07-Ga. +7' 42-30 06-Fla. -13' 21-14 05-Fla. -4 14-10 all at J’ville...SR: Georgia 46-37-2)





SOUTHERN CAL 49 - Washington 0—If it took U-Dub into the 2nd half
before it could cross midfield against Notre Dame, it might take Jake Lockerless
Huskies all week to take a snap on other side of 50 vs. voracious USC “D,”
allowing a nation’s-low 8.1 ppg. And though Trojans have surprisingly failed to
cover last 3 in series, Pete Carroll could be excused for playing “poll ball”
considering that other one-loss BCS hopefuls are running up scores each week.
(07-S. Cal 27-WASH. 24...S.20-15 S.39/224 W.33/100 S.20/37/2/236 W.13/28/1/90 S.1 W.1)
(07-Usc -20' 27-24 06-USC -19 26-20 05-Usc -30 51-24...SR: Southern Cal 48-26-4)



*OKLAHOMA 52 - Nebraska 24—OU’s seemingly unstoppable shotgun, nohuddle
offense (48 ppg; 55 in the first H last week at K-State) now getting more
help from RB DeMarco Murray (knee injury late LY). But the Sooner defense is
mystifying its coaches with its allowance of 37 ppg the last 3. NU’s Bo Pelini
(former Stoops assistant) can score with sr. QB Ganz (70%, 15 TDP) and has
plugged some of the Huskers’ many defensive leaks. But, enough of them?
CABLE TV—ESPN
(06-Okl. -3' 21-7 at K. City 05-Okl. +1 31-24...SR: Okla. 43-37-3)



Oregon 31 - CALIFORNIA 30—Return of Oregon QB Roper to active status
gives Mike Bellotti as full an offensive deck as he’s had since early September.
And with either Roper or juco Masoli at controls, o.c. Chip Kelly’s creative
spread can stretch the Cal “D” that was burned repeatedly the last time it saw this
many weapons (Oct. 18 loss at Arizona). Not sure Bears can count on a couple of
int. TDs to extend margin as was case vs. limited UCLA. REG. TV—ABC
(07-Cal. 31-ORE. 24...O.27-21 O.39/191 C.33/115 O.31/44/2/306 C.28/43/0/285 C.0 O.2)
(07-Cal. +6' 31-24 06-CAL. -5 45-24 05-ORE. -2' 27-20 (OT)...SR: California 38-30-2)



NAVY 20 - Temple 17—Respect job HC Niumatalolo has done with Navy, as
Middies have won and covered 4 of last 5 to pull into bowl contention. However,
Temple has enough athletes up front on defense to slow down Navy running
game, and return of Owl QB DiMichele a boost (he threw winning TD pass with
1:51 left vs. Ohio).
(07-Navy 30-TEMPLE 19...N.21-16 N.56/361 T.25/74 T.21/29/2/199 N.3/7/0/78 N.2 T.0)
(07-Navy -21 30-19 06-NAVY -32 42-6 05-NAVY -27' 38-17...SR: EVEN 4-4)




KANSAS 38 - Kansas State 34—Don’t trust either to stop the other’s
capable QB, so side with K-State (four straight covers as dog). KU has been
burned for 45 & 63 points last two games, with QB Reesing suffering 7 sacks &
5 ints., partly due inconsistent Jayhawk rushing. Wildcat QB Josh Freeman (15
TDP, 13 TDR) should be able to keep KSU in the hunt.
(07-Kansas 30-KAN. ST. 24...U.24-17 U.39/170 S.21/53 S.32/49/3/310 U.22/36/3/267 U.0 S.0)
(07-Kansas +3' 30-24 06-KANSAS -2' 39-20 05-KSU -6 12-3...SR: Kansas 64-36-5)




*Texas 30 - TEXAS TECH 27—Colt McCoy has hit 81.8% of his passes for
21 TDs with 4 ints., while Graham Harrell’s number are 71.1%, 28 & 5. McCoy
has faced the tougher opposition, but that’s an issue, as this is UT’s fourth
straight game against top-flight teams who totaled one loss between them! TT
defense improved TY, with 14 picks. But the Longhorns still have the better
athletes overall and are second in the country with 29 sacks. Red Raiders have
allowed only three! TV—ABC
(07-TEXAS 59-Tex. Tech 43...U.33-26 U.62/283 T.7/10 T.36/48/1/466 U.21/30/1/268 U.0 T.0)
(07-TEXAS -6' 59-43 06-Texas -10' 35-31 05-TEXAS -16 52-17...SR: Texas 43-14)



Michigan 21 - PURDUE 16—Feel Rich Rodriguez’ & Michigan have a better
chance of picking themselves up off the canvas and continuing the fight than
lame-duck Tiller’s Purdue side. Boiler QB Painter suffered a shoulder injury vs.
Minny and didn’t return, and replacement Joey Elliott is out for the season, so
it could be soph Justin Siller leading Boilers to a sixth straight loss.
(07-MICH. 48-Purd. 21...M.25-13 M.43/189 P.25/39 M.22/30/0/269 P.29/47/2/253 M.2 P.2)
(07-MICHIGAN -5 48-21...SR: Michigan 41-12)




MICHIGAN STATE 21 - Wisconsin 20—Wisconsin’s win against Illinois a
major lift for the Badgers, and QB Dustin Sherer’s success could carry over vs.
Spartans despite another injury to TE Travis Beckum (leg fracture). MSU can’t
be blamed for having a bit of a hangover after winning at rival Michigan for the
first time since ‘90. Spartans have scored only 16 ppg in last 4 at home, with
defenses stacked vs. star RB Ringer (1373 YR). CABLE TV—ESPN
(07-WIS. 37-Mich. St. 34...W.25-22 M.37/241 W.52/214 M.22/36/0/323 W.17/25/2/247 W.0 M.1)
(07-WISCONSIN -7' 37-34...SR: Michigan State 26-20)




BOSTON COLLEGE 23 - Clemson 14—Backing BC is a teeth-gnashing
endeavor these days, as QB Crane’s proclivity for killer turnovers (6 ints. last 2
games, 3 taken back for TDs and 1 returned to goal line) making Eagle games
exceedingly unpredictable. Miid-season coaching change not enough reason
to support Clemson (0-5 vs. spread), however, especially with QBs Harper &
Korn both hurting. CABLE TV—ESPNU
(07-Bos. Col. 20-CLEM. 17...B.26-21 B.34/60 C.31/47 B.31/47/1/315 C.26/40/1/226 B.0 C.0)
(07-Bc +8' 20-17 06-BC +2 34-33 (OT) 05-Bc +3 16-13 (OT)...SR: Boston Col. 8-7-2)




San Jose State 41 - IDAHO 17—Idaho turned to Princeton (RB McCarty,
that is, with 160 YR last week) to break 9-game Kibbie Dome drought vs. FBSlevel
foes against NMSU. But Vandals might need help from Yale and
Dartmouth in order to get over hump vs. San Jose bunch that has taken care of
business vs. lesser opposition lately (covered last 9 as chalk!). Spartan QB
Reed will feel like he’s on a date with Beyonce’ this week after dealing with
rugged Boise “D” last week.
(07-S. JOSE ST. 28-Idaho 20...S.23-13 I.43/183 S.48/134 S.22/30/1/302 I.8/15/2/68 S.0 I.0)
(07-SJSU -7 28-20 06-Sjsu -6' 28-13 05-SJSU -7' 26-18...SR: San Jose State 11-7-1)




*Byu 30 - COLORADO STATE 24—Now that BYU’s postseason goals likely
involve bowls in Fort Worth and Las Vegas instead of the BCS, Cougs (no
covers last 4) appear either uninterested or unable to clear sizable imposts.
Either way, scrappy CSU (3-0 vs. line at Fort Collins) has enough pop to hang,
especially with RB G. Johnson providing nice offensive balance and QB Farris
developing noticeable rapport with quality TE Sperry (3 TD catches at SDSU).
(07-BYU 35-Colo. St. 16...B.21-20 C.43/150 B.38/106 B.22/31/1/355 C.18/35/1/161 B.1 C.0)
(07-BYU -21 35-16 06-Byu -15 24-3 05-BYU +2' 24-14...SR: BYU 36-27-3)




STANFORD 45 - Washington State 6—Although previous night’s
Halloween could prove nice diversion for Wazzu (Cougs can trick-or-treat as
themselves!), another dose of reality awaits outmanned Palouse bunch that’s
allowing more points vs. Pac-10 foes (58 ppg!) than Tony Bennett’s Wazzu
hoopsters. Chance for Jim Harbaugh to have Stanford take out some frustrations
and restore confidence of QB Pritchard for bowl-deciding stretch run.
(07-WASH. ST. 33-Stan. 17...W.27-23 S.47/113 W.31/112 W.32/47/0/449 S.22/40/2/263 W.3 S.1)
(07-WSU -11 33-17 06-Wsu -10 26-10 05-Stan. +14 24-21...SR: Stanford 32-25-1)




*Boise State 42 - NEW MEXICO STATE 14—Number rising following
NMS’s loss at lowly Idaho, but that won’t dissuade us from laying the lumber
with poll-conscious, defensively-fierce BSU, allowing a meager 5 meaningful
TDs over last 6 games. Broncos highly-creative, balanced attack (51 ppg last
3 meetings) once again overwhelms soft Aggie defense (35 ppg) that allowed
Vandals to rumble for season-high 271 YR & almost 6 ypc.
(07-BOISE ST. 58-Nms 0...B.27-7 B.43/233 N.26/M19 B.24/36/0/371 N.15/28/3/108 B.0 N.0)
(07-BSU -24' 58-0 06-Bsu -26' 40-28 05-BSU -33 56-6...SR: Boise State 8-0)




MISSISSIPPI STATE 19 - Kentucky 13—Unless number over-inflated as a
result of UK’s 63-5 debacle at Florida, would rather buck Wildcat squad
resembling a MASH unit these days. MSU’s developing QB Lee (10 different
receivers in 31-22 win vs. Middle Tennessee) & RB Dixon (599 YR) on the
upswing, while true frosh QB/RB/WR Cobb has prematurely become the
centerpiece on a decimated UK attack. Number sensitive, since Bulldogs 0-5
as Starkville chalk since ‘05.
(07-Miss. St. 31-KY. 14...M.22-19 M.51/200 K.27/89 K.24/42/3/230 M.17/28/0/152 M.1 K.3)
(07-Msu +13' 31-14 06-Ky. -1 34-31 05-KY. -1 13-7...SR: Kentucky 20-15)




GEORGIA TECH 19 - Florida State 16—Sure, four straight wins find Florida
State’s bandwagon filling fast. But ACC scouts quick to remind us that Va. Tech
offense was moving very effectively last week at Tallahassee before Hokies lost
their top 2 QBs. Young but jelling Seminole OL figures to have its hands full with
talented, veteran Ga. Tech DL, so Ramblin’ Wreck option should generate
enough offense for host to prevail. REG. TV—ABC
(DNP...SR: Florida State 12-7-1)




*LSU 44 - Tulane 10—Sandwich spot for LSU, but look for angry, focused
Tigers to feast on sliding, demoralized Tulane, which trailed Rice 35-0 at
intermission week ago. Ouch! LSU’s punishing ground attack overpowers
wound-licking Green Wave front 7 (gave up 230 YR vs. Owls!), while QB J. Lee
rebounds from 3-pick effort vs. Georgia (two returned for Dawg TDs). Resilient
Tigers are 8-1-1 vs. spread last 10 following SU loss.
(07-Lsu 34-TULANE 9...L.16-12 L.38/134 T.33/88 L.17/32/1/257 T.12/32/1/139 L.0 T.2)
(07-Lsu -41' 34-9 06-LSU -36' 49-7...SR: LSU 67-22-7)




*Tcu 33 - UNLV 13—UNLV at least not evaporating down stretch as it has in
recent seasons, but succession of gut-wrenching defeats (last 3 losses decided
in final minute) apt to take toll on Rebels. No comparison in defensive
competence (TCU ranks 2nd, UNLV 108th), and BCS-hopeful Frogs (only loss
vs. Oklahoma) starting to stretch the field once again now that soph QB Dalton
has returned to lineup.
(07-TCU 34-Unlv 10...T.27-13 T.58/251 U.22/12 U.18/30/1/235 T.12/23/1/126 T.0 U.1)
(07-TCU -18 34-10 06-Tcu -20 25-10 05-TCU -29 51-3...SR: TCU 5-1)




*SOUTHERN MISS 32 - Uab 30—Golden Eagles hungry (starving?) for
victory after 5 straight losses. But USM’s defensive woes—allowed 516 yards
& 36 points at Memphis last week even though Tigers were down to their 3rd and
4th-string QBs—acute enough to compel us to take points with hard-trying
Blazers & resourceful jr. QB Webb.
(07-S. Miss 37-UAB 7...S.25-13 S.56/338 U.26/65 U.17/37/1/179 S.11/24/0/118 S.1 U.1)
(07-Usm -11 37-7 06-USM -14' 25-20 05-Usm +2' 37-28...SR: Southern Miss 8-0)




*Rice 47 - UTEP 41—Have little doubt that quick-trigger soph QB Vittatoe
(41 TDP, only 11 ints. last 1+ seasons) & potent Miners will “get theirs” against
vulnerable Rice defense. Won’t buck plucky Owls, however, especially now
that prolific sr. QB Clement (74 TDP, 19 TDR last 2+ seasons!) getting
increased ground support from jr. RB Ugokwe.
(07-RICE 56-Utep 48...R.26-23 R.34/163 U.33/49 R.32/58/3/395 U.30/57/0/373 R.4 U.3)
(07-RICE +7' 56-48 06-Rice +9 37-31 05-Utep -19' 38-31...SR: Rice 6-5)



*Utah 30 - NEW MEXICO 17—Rocky Long’s UNM teams have been known to
rise to the occasion in dog role, but circumstances not especially conducive to Lobo
recommendation here. That’s because Lobo o.c. Baldwin has had to scale back
playbook with RS frosh Gruner and juco T. Smith alternating in place of injured
Donovan Porterie at QB. And unbeaten, rested Utah (off “bye”) well-aware a close
might not help very real BCS dreams.
(07-UTAH 28-N. Mex. 10...U.19-15 U.44/138 N.31/81 N.18/41/0/198 U.17/28/1/172 U.1 N.4)
(07-UTAH -15 28-10 06-UNM +6 34-31 05-Unm +6 31-27...SR: Utah 30-17-2)




*OREGON STATE 40 - Arizona State 17—Whatever magic Dennis Erickson
was weaving upon his arrival at ASU has long since disappeared, as free-falling
Sun Devils have lost last 5 SU and have dropped 10 of last 11 vs. line. And noshow
home effort vs. Oregon indicates troops showing no signs of rallying down
stretch. Meanwhile, hot OSU has covered last 5, as the brothers Rodgers ignite
Beav infantry and fuel another late-season uptick for Mike Riley. Note home
team 16-2-1 vs. line last 19 in series!
(07-ARIZ. ST. 44-Ore. St. 32...O.28-19 O.32/190 A.36/35 A.25/36/1/361 O.28/48/5/324 A.1 O.1)
(07-ASU -11' 44-32 06-OSU -2 44-10 05-Asu -6' 42-24...SR: Arizona State 23-9-1)




ADDED GAMES

WESTERN KENTUCKY 41 - North Texas 20—Pick your poison. Lightpunching
WKU hasn’t scored more than 20 points against an FBS foe TY, but
bottom-of-barrel North Texas (just 12-28-1 vs. spread last 41 on line!) allowing
50 ppg and frequently fails to stay inside much roomier imposts.
(07-N. TEX 27-W. Ky. 26...N.23-21 W.46/226 N.34/195 N.20/42/3/202 W.15/23/0/123 N.0 W.2)
(07-NORTH TEXAS (NL) 27-26...SR: North Texas 1-0)



ALABAMA 30 - Arkansas State 10—The “Nicktator” finally extracted a full 4
Qs from his team in 29-9 romp at Tennessee, but still lean to scrappy, rested
ASU, accustomed to big, hostile environs such as College Station, Austin &
Knoxville last 1+Ys (covered two of those). Red Wolves mult-talented QB
Leonard (11 TDs, 3 ints., 554 YR) does enough business to hang inside big
spread in Tuscaloosa, where distracted Tide is a woeful 3-17 as chalk since ‘05.
Oh, by the way, Nick Saban has a little lookahead with his former LSU next week.
(DNP...SR: Ala. 1-0)



*LA.-LAFAYETTE 31 - Florida Intl. 28—Go-with vs. go-with, as these two
are combined 11-2-1 vs. spread so far TY. Even if slippery sr. QB Desormeaux
back in action (as expected) for Ragin’ Cajuns, prefer to take points with
defensively-sounder FIU.
(07-La.-Laf. 38-FIU 28...L.27-16 L.54/287 F.42/264 L.16/19/0/177 F.11/19/0/127 L.2 F.1)
(07-Ull -3' 38-28 06-Ull -4' 17-7 05-ULL -9 28-7...SR: La.-Lafayette 5-0)



*Troy 31 - LA.-MONROE 27—Troy hasn’t missed a beat since Richmond
transfer Levi Brown (school-record 40 completions vs. North Texas!) replaced
injured Jamie Hampton at QB. But scrappy Monroe rarely loses touch vs. Sun
Belt opposition. And if Warhawks not too depressed by last-second loss vs.
Florida Atlantic, versatile QB Lancaster capable of keeping hosts within reach.
(07-TROY 24-La.-Mon. 7...T.20-14 L.40/189 T.26/101 T.29/49/2/288 L.18/26/1/114 T.0 L.2)
(07-TROY -13 24-7 06-TROY -9' 24-19 05-ULM +2 27-3...SR: Troy 7-2-1)



SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2
*East Carolina 29 - UCF 19—Although LY’s move to new on-campus
stadium has provided UCF (6-2-1 vs. spread last 9 as host) with significant
home-field edge, can’t support Golden Knights until their moribund offense
(nation’s-worst 248 ypg thru first 6) shows more signs of life. ECU has two QBs
capable of leading its attack, and Pirates determined not to lose inside track in
C-USA East chase. CABLE TV—ESPN
(07-E. CAR. 52-Ucf 38...U.29-16 U.42/187 E.37/160 U.28/48/3/308 E.15/27/0/210 E.0 U.2)
(07-ECU +3' 52-38 06-Ecu -5' 23-10 05-Ucf +1' 30-20...SR: East Carolina 6-1)



TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4
*BUFFALO vs. Miami-Ohio—Check Sports Handicappers - Football Picks - Handicapping Picks - Basketball Betting for this one!
CABLE TV—ESPN2
(07-MIAMI 31-Buf. 28...M.21-18 M.39/216 B.27/103 M.20/26/0/259 B.33/45/0/217 M.2 B.1)
(07-MIAMI -6' 31-28 06-Miami -7' 38-31 05-MIAMI -27' 54-13...SR: Miami-Ohio 10-0)



WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
*BALL STATE vs. Northern Illinois—Check Sports Handicappers - Football Picks - Handicapping Picks - Basketball Betting for this
one! CABLE TV—ESPNU
(07-Ball 27-N. ILL. 21...B.19-17 B.31/44 N.28/M1 B.23/35/0/326 N.25/45/1/262 B.0 N.1)
(07-Bsu -9 27-21 06-Niu -6' 40-28 05-Bsu +29 31-17...SR: Ball State 19-14-2)



*AKRON vs. Toledo—Check Sports Handicappers - Football Picks - Handicapping Picks - Basketball Betting for this one!
CABLE TV—ESPN2

GOLD SHEET--NFL

THE GOLD SHEET


KEY RELEASES

CLEVELAND by 13 over Baltimore
N.Y. GIANTS by 20 over Dallas
OVER THE TOTAL in the Detroit-Chicago game




CLEVELAND 23 - Baltimore 10—In its last home game, the aroused
Cleveland defense made Eli Manning and the Super Bowl champs look like
chumps, the Browns winning 35-14. In fact, the improved Cleveland defensive
unit has allowed only 12, 14, 14 & 17 points its last four games! The Browns’
major question of 2008 remains whether QB Derek Anderson (56.5%, 29 TDs,
19 ints. LY; 49%, 6 & 7 TY) can regain his big-play form. He was sacked 5 times
and intercepted thrice by the Ravens in Week Two. But, now, it’s payback time
for Cleveland vs. Joe Flacco. Browns four straight covers TY; 17-6 vs. spread
last 23 overall; 1-11-1 “under” last 13.
(08-BALT. 28-Cle. 10...B.21-11 B.44/151 C.15/73 B.13/19/2/122 C.14/37/3/96 B.0 C.0)
(07-CLE. 27-Balt. 13...B.16-12 B.20/111 C.30/99 B.34/53/1/307 C.10/18/1/204 C.0 B.1)
(07-Cle. 33-BAL. 30 (OT)...B.23-22 B.25/128 C.34/117 C.24/38/1/263 B.22/41/2/240 C.1 B.2)
(08-BALT. -2' 28-10; 07-CLEVE. +4 27-13, Cleve. -2' 33-30 (OT)...SR: Baltimore 12-7)



NY GIANTS 33 - Dallas 13—Hard times for Brad Johnson, a Super
Bowl-winning QB six years ago, but now a soft-tossing (19 completions for only
122 yards last week vs. T.B.), 40-year-old fill-in for Tony Romo (expected to be
sidelined through Dallas’ upcoming bye week). Worse yet for the Cowboys, the
G-men have the rush defense (fifth prior to last week) to repeatedly force
Johnson to the air and the pass rush (26 sacks) to then attack. Giants’ own
mashing ground assault (No. 1 prior to the Steeler game) figures to keep
DeMarcus Ware (9 sacks) under control, allowing Eli and his deep WR corps to
exploit the depleted Dallas secondary. G-men on 19-6 cover streak.
(07-DAL. 45-Giants 35...N.22-21 D.30/142 N.22/124 D.15/24/1/336 N.29/44/1/314 D.1 N.0)
(07-Dal. 31-GIANTS 20...N.23-19 N.27/106 D.24/82 D.20/28/1/241 N.23/34/2/194 D.0 N.0)
(07-Giants 21-DAL. 17...D.23-16 D.33/154 N.23/90 D.18/36/1/182 N.12/18/0/140 N.0 D.0)
(07-DAL. -6 45-35, Dal. -2 31-20, Giants +7' 21-17 (Playoffs)...SR: Dallas 54-36-2



OVER THE TOTAL CHICAGO 37 - Detroit 16—Can Detroit ever win
a game, or is Cincinnati more likely to emerge as the more serious challenger
to the all-time futility mark of the 0-14 of the T.B. Bucs of 1976? While
pondering that one, the immediate focus is whether the Lions can put up a
better fight vs. Chicago than they did in their humbling 34-7 loss at Ford Field
four weeks ago. We’re not convinced, especially with Jon Kitna out and stilllearning
Dan Orlovsky (three starts) at QB, and with HC Rod Marinelli’s status
on a week-to-week basis. Would much rather trust rested Bears, looking to
take charge of the NFC North and with Kyle Orton (10 TDs, 4 ints.) resembling
a good NFL QB. Chicago 17-4 “over” at home.
(08-Chi. 34-DET. 7...C.21-12 C.34/97 D.13/54 C.24/34/0/328 D.21/39/1/131 C.1 D.1)
(07-DET. 37-Chi. 27...C.22-19 D.25/95 C.22/69 C.34/52/3/234 D.20/24/0/215 D.2 C.0)
(07-Det. 16-CHI. 7...D.22-16 D.28/119 C.20/63 D.24/35/0/246 C.22/40/4/192 D.1 C.0)
(08-Chicago -3' 34-7; 07-DETROIT +2' 37-27, Detroit +5 16-7...SR: Chicago 88-64-5)





MINNESOTA 27 - Houston 26—Houston’s far-from-perfect defense is
vulnerable to Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota ground game. However, the
Vikes still have holes in their pass defense, and it’s always an adventure to see
what Minny might do next when punting and returning punts. The Texans have
a super-fast returner in Jacoby Jones (two PR TDs TY), and rookie RB Steve
Slaton is a tick faster on artificial turf. WR Andre Johnson (56 recs.) is having
a monster year. Houston “over” 6 of 7 TY and 10 of last 12 overall.
(04-Minnesota -3' 34-28 (OT)...SR: Minnesota 1-0)



Jacksonville 28 - CINCINNATI 17—Bengals have yet to cover in four starts
by Ryan Fitzpatrick (2 TDs, 5 ints., 17 sacks). And the loss of good-looking
rookie OLB Keith Rivers could prove doubly important vs. a strong-running
team such as Jacksonville. The Jags (0-5 as a favorite) are no cinch, however,
and former Chicago Bear Cedric Benson is providing at least the semblance of
a ground attack for Cincy. Maybe the best option is “over,” as Jacksonville is
11-3-1 “over” on the road (but only 1-2 TY).
(05-JACKSONVILLE -3 23-20...SR: Jacksonville 11-5)




Tampa Bay 24 - KANSAS CITY 10—Maybe Tyler Thigpen is getting the
hang of this NFL thing, as the former Coastal Carolina Chanticleer QB enjoyed
his best pro day (280 YP & 2 TDP) in 28-24 loss at the Jets. Then again, that
unexpected K.C. uprising should only serve to alert an angry Tampa Bay bunch
that’s unlikely to overlook the Chiefs after the Bucs’ own bitter 13-9 loss at Big
D. Have more faith in Monte Kiffin’s coverage schemes and blitz packages to
disrupt the inexperienced Thigpen, and in Jon Gruden’s offense to repeatedly
exploit the low-ranking K.C. defense, especially now that WR Joey Galloway is
back in action.
(04-TAMPA BAY +3 34-31...SR: Kansas City 5-4)




BUFFALO 22 - NY Jets 13—With Buffalo’s power running game still not
generating consistent yardage (Marshawn Lynch only 3.5 ypc), we wonder if
last week’s 25-16 loss at Miami might be the first sign the Bills are about ready
to fall back to earth. But we’re reluctant to trust the Jets as long as Brett Favre
(ints. in 6 straight games for first time since ‘05; 3 picks last week; now 11 TY)
continues to make costly mistakes as he adjusts to N.Y.’s offense. Buffalo
counterpart Trent Edwards (only 3 ints.) proving more efficient. Note: Bills 13-
6 vs. line at Orchard Park under Dick Jauron.
(07-BUF. 17-NY Jets 14...N.20-19 B.28/86 N.19/60 N.32/39/2/286 B.22/28/1/218 B.1 N.0)
(07-Buf. 13-NY JETS 3...B.19-14 B.35/108 N.23/100 B.17/26/1/239 N.18/32/2/154 B.0 N.1)
(07-BUFFALO +3' 17-14, Buffalo +3 13-3...SR: Buffalo 53-42)




ST. LOUIS 29 - Arizona 24—Can St. Louis (2-5) possibly be on the verge
of getting back into the NFC West race? And do the modern-day Ram fans even
know or care of Bill Bidwill, who moved the Cards from the Gateway City to the
desert 20 years ago? We’ll say “yes” to the first question, and “probably no” to
the Bidwill portion. What matters most is that St. Louis is 2-1 SU and 3-0 vs.
the spread since Jim Haslett replaced Scott Linehan. And even without
Steven Jackson (thigh strain; check status), Rams have a new gamebreaker
in rookie WR Donnie Avery, who is supplanting Torry Holt as Marc Bulger’s
favorite target.
(07-Ariz. 34-ST. LOU. 31...24-24 S.23/123 A.31/102 A.21/41/2/281 S.24/43/3/252 A.0 S.0)
(07-ARIZ. 48-St. Lou. 19...A.25-13 A.31/123 S.24/75 A.23/39/2/300 S.14/30/3/159 A.0 S.0)
(07-Arizona -3' 34-31, ARIZONA -6 48-19...SR: St. Louis 31-26-2)




TENNESSEE 21 - Green Bay 20—Extra rest for G.B., off its bye week, while
Tennessee on short practice after important Monday nighter with Indy. Both
teams sport ball-hawking DBs, with DBs Courtland Finnegan & Michael Griffin
of the Titans and Nick Collins & Charles Woodson of the Packers each with 4
ints. prior to that Indy game. Tenn. runs it better with Chris Johnson & LenDale
White. But Packers throw it better with the surprising Aaron Rodgers (65.6%,
12 TDs, only 4 ints.), who’s taking fine advantage of his quality receivers and
Mike McCarthy’s clever passing schemes.
(2008 Preseason: Tennessee -6' beat Green Bay 23-21 at Green Bay)
(04-Tennessee +3 48-27...SR: Tennessee 5-4)




DENVER 30 - Miami 21—This one figures to be run vs. pass, with the
Dolphins’ strong and often deceptive ground game challenging the Broncos’
low-ranked defense, now missing LB Boss Bailey & cover corner Champ Bailey
(expected to be replaced by fourth-round draft pick Jack Williams of Kent
State). However, Denver’s bye week will allow Jay Cutler’s sore finger to heal
and for Mike Shanahan (5 straight covers after byes; 6-1-1 last 8 vs. the spread
following a DD loss) to devise some new looks for WRs Marshall & Royal and
TEs Scheffler & Graham. Broncs 13-4 “over” at home.
(05-MIAMI +5 34-10...SR: Miami 10-4-1)




Atlanta 23 - OAKLAND 16—Prefer the solid coaching and impressive
development of Atlanta, even though both of the promising QBs in this game
deserve credit for avoiding the very frequent interceptions that often plague
young passers (Matt Ryan has 5 picks; JaMarcus Russell, only 3). However, for
the Falcons, WR Roddy White (43 recs., 5 TDC) has continued his ascension
toward the upper echelon. Cross-country travelers not doing well in the NFL TY, but
Mike Smith has his young Atlanta players believing they’re solid contenders in the
NFC South, while many Raiders uncertain what exactly is going on in Oakland.
(04-ATLANTA -7' 35-10...SR: Oakland 7-4)


Philadelphia 23 - SEATTLE 20—Hesitant to lay the lumber with superior
visitor at one of the NFL’s toughest sites, especially with mobile backup QB
Seneca Wallace (2 TDP last week in S.F.) at least stabilizing the Seattle
offense. Eagles always a major threat when Brian Westbrook (167 YR, 6 recs.
last week) healthy. But Seahawks, who have won four straight NFC West titles,
have a solid corps of players eager to a make a run at a fifth now that they’re
back on the winning track. This one unlikely to come easy for the favorite.
(07-Sea. 28-PHIL. 24...P.17-16 P.29/144 S.29/135 P.19/42/4/219 S.19/34/1/176 S.1 P.0)
(07-Seattle +3 28-24...SR: Philadelphia 6-5)




*INDIANAPOLIS 27 - New England 24—Tom Brady’s knee injury has kept
this game from being the premium matchup anticipated prior to the season.
And injuries to other players (Rodney Harrison, Sammy Morris, Joseph Addai,Bob Sanders; check status of the last three) have further dimmed the luster.
Making things interesting, however, has been the gradual improvement of Matt
Cassel and the injury-disrupted season being endured by Peyton Manning (8
TDs, 7 ints. prior to Monday night game in Tennessee) and the Indy offense.
Pats are 11-6-1 L5+Ys in rare underdog role. TV—NBC
(07-N. Eng. 24-INDY 20...I.23-21 I.31/119 N.28/105 N.21/32/2/237 I.16/27/1/213 N.0 I.1)
(07-New England -5 24-20...SR: New England 44-27)




MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3
*Pittsburgh 20 - WASHINGTON 16—Maturing Washington QB Jason
Campbell (8 TDs, no ints.) faces perhaps his toughest challenge since the
Redskins’ 16-7 opening-day at the Giants, as the often-confusing Steeler 3-4
features two of the NFL’s top sack artists in James Harrison’s (8½) & LaMarr
Woodley (7½). Only once (last week, in fact) has the Steeler defense allowed
more than 260 total yards TY. RB Clinton Portis (944 YR) is leading the league
in rushing, but he’s been taking a beating. Pittsburgh is hoping Willie Parker
(out since Game Three with knee injury) and WR Santonio Holmes (deactivated
due to pot arrest) will both be back. Only Steeler losses have come vs. the
Eagles & Giants, and Redskins lack that type of pass rush. CABLE TV—ESPN
(04-PITTSBURGH -10 16-7...SR: Washington 42-30-3)

CKO

CKO

11 *NOTRE DAME over Pittsburgh
Late Score Forecast:
*NOTRE DAME 35 - Pittsburgh 16


Don’t look now, but HC Charlie Weis again has Notre Dame shaking down a little thunder. The Irish have won 5
straight at South Bend (covered 4), by a margin of 14 ppg. ND QB Jimmy Clausen is maturing rapidly, as he’s thrown
for 302 ypg, with a 9-3 TD-to-int. mark in the last 4 games, and the Irish trio of RBs Allen, Hughes and Aldridge have
produced a respectable 156 YR & 6 rush TDs over the same span. Frosh WR Michael Floyd is emerging as a major
weapon, as he’s averaged 100 ypg receiving and scored 4 TDs in the last 5 games. Pittsburgh RB LeSean McCoy
is very dangerous, but the Panthers haven’t taken care of the ball well enough this season (100th in TO margin). The
Pitt defense, which ranks 94th in pass efficiency, was burned for 361 yards and 6 TD passes by Rutgers QB Mike
Teel last week. Clausen should have similar success, as ND makes a bid to break back into the national rankings.




10 KANSAS STATE over *Kansas
Late Score Forecast:
KANSAS STATE 33 - *Kansas 34


With both teams having defensive problems, Big XII scouts recommend grabbing points with very offensively
competent Kansas State in this classic handicapping spot (double-digit rivalry road dogs usually tend to hang close
when the talent difference is not great). Both teams had an uncharacteristic five giveaways in blowout losses last
week, But Kansas very much misses the power running they had LY with Brandon McAnderson. And KSU coach
Ron Prince has spruced up the Wildcat WR corps for future NFL QB Josh Freeman (15 TDP vs. 5 ints; plus 13 TD runs
TY). Now in the middle of his junior season, Freeman is experienced enough to keep his poise in raucous Lawrence.
And Prince’s special teams have already generated five TDs TY.




10 *LSU over Tulane
Late Score Forecast:
*LSU 45 - Tulane 10

After plummeting to 15th in the AP poll and being essentially scratched from the SEC race, angry LSU can’t wait to
vent vs. overmatched Tulane, which has dropped 3 straight winnable games in October following a promising
September. Tigers growing but mistake-prone QB Lee (58%, 11 TDs, 9 ints., 4 returned for TDs) welcomes an
undersized, depth-shy Green Wave defense (850 yds. last two weeks) after facing a 5-game stretch of physical,
fast SEC stop units. Meanwhile, Tulane attack highly unsettled with premier RB Anderson (852 YR) sidelined with
an injury, and HC Bob Toledo undecided about whether he stays with struggling 6-4 soph QB K. Moore or switches
to RS frosh QB J. Kemp, who showed flashes vs. Rice but still hasn’t mastered the offense. With either guy,
disheartened Toledo says, “My offense is beat up and incapable of making big plays right now.” That will certainly
be the case vs. athletic but embarrassed LSU defense primed for a confidence-booster in preparation for upcoming
Bama game.


10 EAST CAROLINA over *Ucf
Late Score Forecast:
East Carolina 32 - *UCF 17
(Sunday, November 2)

East Carolina insiders say highly-regarded HC Skip Holtz has the Pirates poised for strong stretch drive, getting his
squad to re-focus on winning the C-USA title after three straight losses put the kibosh on some way-too-early BCS
buzz. Meanwhile, season continues to turn pear-shaped on disappointing UCF, which has lost 5 of last 6 games. No
big mystery as to Knights’ main malady—they rank dead last in the nation in total offense, mustering fewer than 250
ypg. Huge edge to potent ECU strike force, which will attack on multiple fronts with both savvy sr. QB Patrick Pinkney
or rocket-armed jr. triggerman Rob Kass, who fired 2 TDP in rested Pirates’ home win over Memphis on Oct. 18. And
don’t forget, even with slight regression to mean recently, Holtz still an immensely-profitable 29-15 vs. spread since
taking over at Greenville.



10 JACKSONVILLE over *Cincinnati
Late Score Forecast:
JACKSONVILLE 27 - *Cincinnati 10
(Sunday, November 2)

Cincy’s situation might be even more dire than the GOP’s Congressional prospects for next week’s election. There’s
not much evidence winless Bengals can turn around a campaign that officially went into free-fall mode when Carson
Palmer’s elbow began acting up, thus exposing a glaring roster shortcoming at QB that wasn’t properly addressed
in offseason. With Palmer likely on shelf again and little used ex-Harvard man Ryan Fitzpatrick taking snaps, Cincy
“O” has slowed to a crawl (just 10 ppg last 3) and has yet to cover any of Fitzpatrick’s 4 starts. Moreover,
beleaguered HC Marvin Lewis’ status reportedly on a week-to-week basis. True, J’ville hasn’t been a trustworthy
favorite TY (0-5), but Jags have weaponry to extend margin and get back into AFC wild card chase.





TOTALS: OVER (48) in the Miami-Denver game—Broncos’ aerial game, combined with their defensive injuries, signal a shootout at Mile Hile; Denver 4-2-
1 “over” TY...UNDER (41) in the Dallas-N.Y. Giant game—Dallas’ new dink aerial game vs. N.Y. defense unlikely to produce many Cowboy points; G-men
love to run.




HONORABLE MENTION (Nine-Rated Games): LOUISVILLE (-14) at Syracuse—Cards well remember LY’s humiliating home upset by the Orange; this year,
LV defense, ground game tougher...OKLAHOMA STATE (–31) vs. Iowa State—Cyclone defense (34 or more five straight games) has given no indication
it is up to the task of slowing the super-potent Cowboys...LOUISIANA TECH (+4½) vs. Fresno State—In Bulldog vs. Bulldog contest, must consider La Tech
& underrated RB Daniel Porter vs. softening Fresno (6 straight pointspread losses)...SOUTHERN CAL (-43) vs. Washington—Eager Trojan backups got
plenty of reps in their previous 69-0 blowout of Washington State; USC needs “poll” points...DENVER (-3) vs. Miami—Dolphins will try to hammer with their
formidable ground game, but Shanahan is doubly tough (6-1-1 vs. spread) off a bad loss.

Any Playbook Newsletter ?