| Daily Blog •Thursday Nov 12 |
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My players of the week selections had a bit of an off week last week, but still went 9-5 with the QBs really bringing down the record at 1-3. The record the last 7 weeks now stands at 41-16-4 (72%), so I’m sure you’ll see some more great surprise picks again this week. First a review of last week’s selections.
My QB selections from last week:
My QB’s of the Week for Week 10: Colt McCoy, Texas,
Juice Williams, Illinois, Nick Foles, Arizona, Kevin Riley, Cal
Colt McCoy, Texas-McCoy hit 33 of 42 (78.6%) for 470 yards with two TDs and o interception in the 35-3 win over UCF. McCoy was only averaging 247 passing ypg coming into the game as the 470 yards were easily a season-high. BIG WIN
Juice Williams, Illinois-Williams hit 5 of 5 (100%) for 53 yards with one TD and 0 interceptions in Illinois’ 35-32 win over Minnesota. Williams was injured in the first quarter when he fumbled on a running play. Freshman Jacob Charest replaced Williams at quarterback on the Illini’s next possession. Williams threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Jeff Cumberland on the team’s opening possession before getting hurt. Had he stayed healthy Williams was on pace for a big win but due to the injury, Loss.
Nick Foles, Arizona-Foles was 12 of 19 (63.2%) for 136 yards with one TD and 0 interceptions in the 48-7 trouncing of Washington St. Foles came in averaging 233 yards per game (72%) and his possessions were limited with Arizona returning the opening kickoff for a touchdown and jumping out to a 34-0 halftime lead. Loss.
Kevin Riley, Cal–Riley hit 19 of 34 (55.9%) for 200 yards with one TD and 0 interceptions in Cal’s 31-14 loss to Oregon St. Riley came in averaging 226 yards per game (55.5%) with a 13-2 ratio. Riley’s numbers and the team’s overall performance was clearly effected by star RB Jahvid Best’s frightening injury in the second quarter with the score 14-7. Loss.
Honorable Mentions:
Ryan Mallett, Arkansas–Mallett hit 23 of 27 (85.2%) for 329 yards and had 1 rushing TD in their 33-16 win over South Carolina. Mallett came into the game averaging 268.5 yards per game and just (54%) and the South Carolina defense was giving up just 141.3 pass ypg (53%).
Jeff Van Camp, Florida Atlantic–Van Camp was 24 of 36 (66.7%) for 254 yards with 3 TDs and 2 interceptions in the Owls 56-29 loss to UAB. Van Camp was making his first start on the road as he was filling in for FAU’s 4-year starting QB Rusty Smith who was out for the year with a shoulder injury. Van Camp’s numbers obviously were career-highs across the board.
Zach Frazer, Connecticut–Frazer was 19 of 32 (59.4%) for 261 yards with 1 TD and 0 interceptions in the 47-45 loss to Cincinnati. Frazer was starting in place of the injured Cody Endres. Not bad numbers for the back-up quarterback on the road facing the #4 team in the country.
No Brainers:
Kyle Padron/Bo Levi Mitchell, SMU–Padron got the start and was 17 of 24 (70.8%) for 234 yards with one TD and 0 interceptions in the 31-28 win over Rice
Levi Brown, Troy – Brown was 20 of 33 (60.6%) for 251 yards with one TD and 0 interceptions in the 40-20 win over Western Kentucky. He also had 41 yards rushing (13.7 ypc).
Colin Kaepernick, Nevada–Kaepernick was 9 of 14 (64.3%) with 1 TD and 0 interceptions in Nevada’s 62-7 stomping of San Jose St. Kaepernick also ran for 115 yards (10.5) with three TDs to lead the nation’s #1 rush offense.
Kellen Moore, Boise State – Moore was 28 of 41 (68.3%) for 354 yards with 3 TDs and 1 interception in Boise’s 45-35 win over La Tech. The 354 yards were a season-best as he came in averaging 238 ypg.
My RB selections from last week:
My Week 10 RB picks were: Donald Buckram, UTep, cj spiller, clemson, frank goodin, ULM, and John clay, wisconsin
Donald Buckram, UTEP-Buckram became only the fourth player in NCAA history to have 200 yards rushing and 100 yds receiving in the same game in UTEP’s 45-38 overtime loss at Tulane on Saturday. Buckram amassed 343 all-purpose yards, 234 rushing (6.9) and 109 receiving on three catches. He scored 4 TDs in the game (3 rushing and 1 receiving) including a 72-yard scoring catch. His 343 all-purpose yards are the fourth-most by a UTEP player, and the most by a Miner since 1965 as well as the second-highest total in the country this year. BIG WIN
CJ Spiller, Clemson – Spiller ran for career-high 165 yards (7.5) with one TD in the 40-24 win over Florida St. Spiller also had 3 receptions for 67 yards and a TD. Spiller broke his own school record with 312 all-purpose yards, which nearly
doubled his 185 ypg average that he came into the game with. WIN
Frank Goodin, ULM-Goodin ran for 102 yards (5.4) and two TDs in the 33-6 win over North Texas. Goodin came in averaging 88 ypg and now has 809 yards (4.9) and 12 TDs on the season. WIN
John Clay, Wisconsin –Clay ran for 134 yards (8.9) and a TD in Wisconsin’s 31-28 win over Indiana. These numbers are amazing when you consider Clay missed the entire second half of the game with a concussion. His 8.9 ypc was a
season-high. WIN
Honorable Mentions:
Daniel Thomas, Kansas St–Thomas ran for a season-high 185 yards (7.7) and one TD in the 17-10 win over arch-rival Kansas. Thomas easily had his best game of the season as the 185 yards were 85 yards over his season average coming in and the 7.7 ypc was also a season-best.
Dion Lewis, Pitt – Lewis ran for 110 yards (6.1) and a TD in the 37-10 win over Syracuse.
Mark Ingram, Alabama – Ingram ran for 144 yards (6.5) in Bama’s 24-15 win over LSU. Ingram’s rushing totals came against a LSU defense that was only allowing 114 rush yards per game (3.2) coming into the game.
No Brainer:
Ryan Mathews, Fresno State – Mathews continued his great season with 143 more yards (5.5) and three touchdowns in the 31-21 win over Idaho. Matthews is the nation’s leading rusher with 1,459 yards (7.1) and 14 TDs on the season.
My WR Selections from last week:
My week 10 WR Picks were: Golden Tate, Notre Dame, Brandon Banks, Kansas St,
and damaris Johnson, tulsa
Golden Tate, Notre Dame – Tate had 9 receptions for 132 yards and a TD in the shocking 23-21 loss to Navy. Tate’s averages didn’t take a hit even with the return of Michael Floyd who had 10 receptions for 141 yards and a TD. WIN
Brandon Banks, Kansas St–Banks had just one reception for five yards in the 17-10 win over Kansas. While Banks had just 65 all-purpose yards, keep in mind his touches were limited in the return game with Kansas scoring just ten points and having several turnovers. Also the Wildcat offense centered around RB Thomas who had 185 yards rushing. Loss.
Damaris Johnson, Tulsa – Johnson had 10 receptions for 144 yards and 0 touchdowns in the tough 46-45 loss to Houston. Johnson’s reception total and yards easily were a season-high. WIN
Honorable Mentions:
Jerrell Jernigan, Troy – Jernigan had 6 receptions for 81 yards and no TDs in Troy’s 40-20 win over WKU.
Marcus Easley, Connecticut–Easley had 6 receptions for 87 yards and a TD in the 47-45 loss to #4 Cincinnati. While coming into the game Easley had 3 straight 100+ yd receiving games, the six receptions tied a season-high.
My Defense Selections from last week:
My week 10 defenses were: Usc and penn st
USC vs Arizona St – Last week it was the USC offense that struggled as the USC defense limited Arizona St to just 347 yards in their 14-9 win. The 347 yards allowed was the best performance by the Trojans in the past four games. A week after allowing 391 yards rushing to Oregon, USC gave up only 81 to the Sun Devils. Also the Trojan D scored a TD off a 55-yard INT return. WIN
Penn St vs Ohio St – Penn St’s poor offense and special teams play really hampered the Lions defense in this game. Ohio State’s first TD came after a big punt return by Ray Small as it was just a nine-yard drive. Penn St allowed 354 yards and 24 points, which was much higher than I expected. Loss.
Honorable Mentions:
Clemson vs Florida St –The Clemson defense forced five key turnovers in their 40-24 win over the Seminoles. FSU came into the game averaging 444 ypg and 32 ppg behind the solid play of QB Ponder, but the Seminole QB threw four interceptions and tallied 392 yards of offense.
Oklahoma St vs Iowa St – The Cowboys defense was superb in their 34-8 win. OSU allowed just 242 yards (season-best) and 8 points to a Cyclone offense that was averaging 381 ypg and 22.7 ppg.
No Brainers:
Florida vs Vanderbilt –Florida’s defense was dominant as expected in their 27-3 win. The Gator defense allowed only 199 yards of total offense. While Tebow and the offense get a lot of the headlines over the past few seasons, the defense is allowing just 232 ypg. They have limited six opponents to under 100 yards rushing this year and amazingly five opponents to under 100 yards passing!
Pittsburgh vs Syracuse – The Panther defense allowed just 10 points and 285 yards of offense in their 37-10 win. Despite these great numbers, the defense was a little disappointing as my computer called for the Orange to have just 223 yards and that didn’t take into account the departure of Syracuse’s top WR Williams.
My Upset of the Week Selection from last week:
ILLINOIS over Minnesota
Another upset winner as the Illini won 35-32 and had a 351-271 yard edge as they limited the Gopher run offense to just 50 yards. What’s even more remarkable about the upset was that starting QB Juice Williams left the game with an injury in the first quarter and backup Charest played the rest of the way. WIN
Now for this week’s selections...
QUARTERBACKS:
MY QB’s of the WEEK (2 selections): Ryan Griffin, Tulane and Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame
Ryan Griffin, Tulane-Griffin is only averaging 140 pass ypg (66%) with a 4-3 ratio starting the last 3 games. Last week he threw for 278 yds (67%) with a 3-0 ratio in Tulane’s OT win over UTEP. This week he takes a step down in competition facing Rice which is dead last in my pass defense rankings allowing 257 ypg (66%) with a 21-4 ratio. Calling for a player averaging only 140 pass ypg to have a big day is certainly a surprising pick no matter who the opponent is. Also have you really ever heard of Ryan Griffin? He is a PS#45 so the potential is there for a long and successful carrier.
Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame-Clausen is #5 in the NCAA in pass ypg (308), but takes on #8 Pitt this week. Clausen is hitting 68% of his passes and has an exceptional 20-3 ratio but is coming off an upset loss to Navy in which he had career highs with 37 completions, 57 attempts and 452 yds and the 37 completions set a school record. It wasn’t all rosy for Clausen last week as he fumbled at the Navy 1 and was intercepted at the Navy 5 on back-to-back drives late 3Q, early 4Q. Although Pitt’s pass defense numbers look decent (allow 204 ypg, 57%, 11-10 ratio), they haven’t faced a strong slate of opposing QBs so far. The only above average pass offenses they have faced are Buffalo (433), NC St (322) and Rutgers (248) for an average of 334 ypg allowed. Clausen is superior to any other QB Pitt has faced by far and should have a big day even on the road at #8 Pitt.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Andy Dalton, TCU-The national spotlight is now on the Frogs who hopped over Cincinnati in the BCS standings last weekend and now get a visit from the Game Day crew for what has become the MWC championship game. Dalton is #4 on the NCAA pass efficiency charts averaging 209 ypg (64%) with a 16-3 ratio with 341 net yds rushing and he has been steady in the big games this year passing for 215 ypg (63%) with a 6-0 ratio and 118 rush yds vs Virginia, Clemson and BYU. My computer is calling for the Frogs to have 452 total yds including 223 pass yds and 35 pts vs Utah’s #18 ranked defense and for Dalton to lead them to their first MWC crown since 2005.
Joe Cox, Georgia-Cox has had a rollercoaster season throwing for 375 yds and a 5-1 ratio at Arkansas, but then throwing for just 146 with an 0-2 ratio in a blowout loss to Tennessee and 165 yds with a 2-3 ratio vs Florida. Prior to last week’s game vs FCS Tennessee Tech, HC Richt gave Cox his vote of confidence and said they will stick with him the rest of the year because he gives them the best chance to win. Cox only threw for 140 yds with a 2-0 ratio before giving way to backup Gray last week in a 38-0 win. This week Cox must prove himself worthy of Richt’s confidence versus their rival Auburn. Auburn ranks #29 in my pass defense rankings allowing just 191 ypg (54%) with a 12-12 ratio, but has faced many run-oriented teams this year. Against the more balanced offenses they’ve faced (WV, Tenn, Ark and LSU), Auburn has allowed 272 pass ypg. UGA needs to win this game to quiet their critics and Cox will have to have a solid game for that to happen. Picking a QB only averaging 209 pass ypg (58%) with a 17-12 ratio vs the #29 pass defense is a surprising pick.
Sean Canfield, Oregon St-This guy is quietly having a great season averaging 265 pass ypg (70%) with a 13-5 ratio. Canfield has had four 300+ yd passing games including 3 versus the tough D’s of UCLA (305), USC (329) and Arizona (303) which are all in the top 26 of my pass defense rankings. This week Canfield takes on Washington’s #101 pass defense which is allowing 263 pass ypg (66%) and my computer predicts that Canfield will throw for 350 yds!
No Brainers:
Colt McCoy, Texas-McCoy is averaging 272 pass ypg (73%) with a 17-9 ratio. He put himself back in the Heisman conversation after throwing for 470 yds (79%) with a 2-1 ratio last week versus UCF. With a win this week, he will tie Georgia QB David Greene for the NCAA record of 42 career wins. This week Texas takes on a banged up Baylor squad that is #52 in my pass D rankings allowing 235 ypg (61%) with a 13-9 ratio. My computer predicts McCoy will throw for 308 yds ,which would be just his fourth 300+ yd passing game this year.
Joe Webb, UAB-Webb is one of the best athletes playing QB in the entire country. His passing stats won’t blow you away, but when you look at his rush numbers you can’t help but be impressed. Webb is #10 in the NCAA averaging 126 rush ypg, which is even more impressive when you factor in the 97 yds he has lost due to sacks. He had is best passing day of the season last week vs FAU as he threw for 292 yds (74%) & 4 TD’s, while also rushing for 120 yds (8.0) & 2 more TD’s. This week he faces a Memphis defense that is ranked #105 in NCAA allowing 433 ypg. The Tigers were scorched by Tenn for 429 pass yds last week & are also allowing 221 ypg rushing in CUSA play. Look for Webb to have another big day though the air & on the ground.
RUNNING BACKS:
MY RBs of the WEEK (4 Selections): Roy Helu, Nebraska, Darius Ashley/Vic Anderson, Louisville, Leon Wright-Jackson/Alex Green, Hawaii, and John Clay/Montee Ball, Wisconsin.
Roy Helu, Nebraska-Helu is finally healthy and proved it last week with 138 rush yds (6.9) vs Oklahoma. On the season, Helu only has 806 yds (5.8) averaging 89.6 rush ypg with three 100+ yd rush games. Nebraska controls their own destiny in the Big 12 North race and travels to Kansas this week. KU is reeling off 4 straight losses, but has only allowed 118 rush ypg (3.6). However versus the 2 strong running teams they have faced recently, KU allowed 266 yds (6.2) to K-St last week and 219 yds (5.1) vs Iowa St. I expect back-to-back 100 yd games from Helu.
Darius Ashley/Vic Anderson, Louisville-Anderson leads the team with 480 rush yds (5.6), but has missed the last 2.5 games with a shoulder injury. Last week rFr Ashley took over rushing for 164 (5.0) which is the best output by far for a UL RB this year. Anderson might return this week from injury which only bolsters the running game for a must-win game versus Syracuse this week. Syracuse is banged up with 4 more players lost this week (3 starters) including super DT Jones and Safety Suter. Ashley led the team to its highest rushing output all year last week (201 yds, 4.7) and they could top that with Anderson back versus a banged up Syracuse team.
Leon Wright-Jackson/Alex Green, Hawaii-No, these two aren’t WR’s listed in the wrong category, and no, this isn’t a typo either. The Warriors utilize the “Run-&-Shoot” offense in which 75% of its yardage output is compiled through the passing game and UH made a concerted effort to get back to more of a wide-open passing scheme this season after trying to squeeze more yardage out of the ground game last year. However, in the midst of a six-game losing streak, the Warriors leaned a little heavier on their run game in last week’s 49-36 victory over Utah State as Hawaii recorded 697 total yards of offense (just 44 yards shy of the school record) with 360 of those yards coming on the ground. Wright Jackson (PS#8) rushed for a career-high 167 on just 15 carries (11.1 ypc) with 3 TDs and Green (PS#44JC) chipped in with 110 yards on just 10 attempts (11.0 ypc). The end result was the most rushing yards by the Warriors in 14 years as Wright-Jackson & Green became the first UH RB tandem to crack the century mark in the same game since 1993. Last week’s output brings Hawaii’s rushing average up to 111.3 ypg & while the Warriors won’t go away from passing the ball, look for them to utilize their “new found” rushing attack for at least another week going up against a New Mexico State defense that is allowing 200.3 ypg and the Aggies’ initial focus on the bye week was to only stop Hawaii’s passing game.
John Clay/Montee Ball, Wisconsin-The Badgers take on a reeling Michigan defense which is allowing a league worst 33.3 ppg and 191 rush ypg (4.8) due to a smallish defensive front and a thin back 7 which now starts 2 former walk-ons. I used Clay as my RB of the week last week and he ran for 134 yards (8.9) and a TD despite missing the entire second half of the game with a concussion. Ball took his place and rushed for 115 yds (4.3) and 2 TDs.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Toby Gerhart, Stanford-With his huge 223 yd & 3 TD performance vs Oregon, Gerhart’s name has popped up in Heisman chatter. Gerhart is #2 in the NCAA rushing with 1,217 yds (5.2) and his 16 TD’s rank 2nd in the nation. Now he takes on a Trojan defense which has softened as the season has gone on allowing 452 ypg the last 4 including the eye popping 391 yds (8.0) rushing 2 weeks ago to an Oregon team which Stanford just beat last week. Taking any RB against the mighty Trojans falls into the surprise category.
Jonathan Franklin, UCLA-Here’s definitely a surprise pick as Franklin only has 510 rush yds (4.4) and only has two 100+ yd rush games this year. Last week he was held to 7 carries after an ankle injury. My computer predicts that UCLA will rush for 176 yds with the bulk of that going to Franklin as long as he is healthy. WSU is allowing 229 rush ypg (5.7).
Warren Norman/Zac Stacy, Vanderbilt-Here’s a pair of true freshmen RBs that no one has heard of from a 2-8 Vanderbilt team. Norman actually leads the SEC in all-purpose ypg (169.6) and has tied an SEC record with 3 kick return TDs this year. Norman leads Vanderbilt with 658 rush yds (5.7) and Stacy is #2 with 421 (4.6). Stacy was the starter at the beginning of the year until suffering an injury and is finally healthy again so that he has been able to split carries with Norman the last 2 games. VU is averaging 171.5 ypg rushing and faces Kentucky which is allowing 188 rush ypg (4.8) which is last in the SEC.
Andre Anderson, Tulane-Anderson has been steady, but not spectacular this year with 778 rush yds (4.5) and 7 TDs averaging 86.4 rush ypg. Anderson has had three 100+ yd rush games but one was versus FCS McNeese St, so calling for a big day from him is a surprise. This week Tulane takes on 0-9 Rice that is allowing 197 rush ypg (4.8), so Anderson should have this fourth 100+ yd rush day.
No Brainers:
Donald Buckram, UTEP-For the fourth straight week I am mentioning arguably the hottest RB in the nation. Buckram has not disappointed the previous 3 wks as he has 563 rush yds (6.4), 165 rec yds (23.5) & 9 total TD’s. This week Buckram faces a SMU defense that is allowing 163 rush ypg & 28 ppg at home. I expect Buckram to continue to be a factor in the passing game, so he is definitely a no-brainer.
WIDE RECEIVERS:
MY WRs of the WEEK (4 Selections): AJ Green, Georgia, Keith Smith, Purdue, Jeremy Williams, Tulane, and James Cleveland, Houston.
AJ Green, Georgia-Green is the top receiver in the SEC leading in receiving ypg (91.5) and receptions per game (5.5). Green sat out last week’s game vs FCS Tennessee Tech with a bruised lung, but is expected to play this week vs rival Auburn in a must-win game for bowl positioning. Despite leading the SEC, Green only has two 100+ yd receiving games this year and hasn’t had a 100+ yd game since September 26th, so this qualifies as a surprise pick since he’s facing the #29 pass defense in my rankings. Auburn is very thin in the secondary after losing their starting FS Etheridge last week to injury and the Dawgs will exploit Auburn’s injury riddled defense with Green having a big game despite coming off an injury.
Keith Smith, Purdue-The Boilers must win out to go to bowl and face a forgiving Michigan St secondary which has allowed the 2nd most TD passes in the country (22). Smith leads the conference in receptions with 70 and receiving yds (863) and at 6’2” 226 is a tough matchup vs the Spartans struggling secondary.
Jeremy Williams, Tulane-Williams is one of the top receivers in CUSA with 62 receptions for 879 yds (14.2) and leads the conference in receiving ypg (97.7), but probably isn’t very well known outside of CUSA. Williams has four 100+ yd receiving games this year (but just 1 in the last 4 games), but should be a safe bet to have a big day vs Rice’s pass defense which is last in my pass D rankings allowing 257 ypg and should add to his TD total (just 3 currently) as Rice has allowed a 21-4 ratio this year.
James Cleveland, Houston-Cleveland (PS#50) was a chosen for the Big Ten All-Freshmen Team at Iowa in ’07, so you know he has talent. He spent a year in JC & then found his was to Houston’s pass happy attack. He leads the nation’s #1 pass offense (434 ypg) with 74 rec (11.5) & 11 TD’s. Over the past 2 gms, Cleveland has 357 rec yds (14.3) & 5 TD’s. This week Houston faces a UCF defense that allowed 470 pass yds to Texas last week, including 273 yds to 1 player (Shipley). My projections show the Cougars with 463 pass yds this week so Cleveland & the Cougars should have a field day against a UCF secondary that features 2 true frosh & a converted QB in the starting lineup.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TE Ed Dickson, Oregon-Dickson is Oregon’s top receiver so I’ll include him in the blog this week. Dickson has 34 receptions for 464 yds (13.6) this year and two 100+ yd receiving games. This week Oregon is off a disappointing loss, but still controls their own destiny in reaching the Rose Bowl. Arizona St is #17 in my pass defense rankings allowing 204 ypg (53%) with an 11-14 ratio, but allowed 351 pass yds to Cal and 279 to Washington. Since ASU is solid in rush defense allowing just 87 ypg (2.8), the Ducks will be forced to take to the air and Dickson is a sure-handed target.
Shay Hodge, Mississippi-Hodge is an under-the-radar guy on a run-first team who is quietly having an outstanding year. Hodge has 45 receptions for 733 yds (16.3) and last week had 7 receptions for 169 yds (24.1) with 2 TDs. This week he takes on Tennessee’s strong secondary led by AA SS Eric Berry. UT ranks #19 in my pass defense rankings only allowing 176 pass ypg (56%) with a 4-7 ratio, so this isn’t a gimme pick. UT has some off-field problems to deal with this week including their starting FS Janzen Jackson that could be distracting for the team. Plus they don’t have much depth on defense to begin with. Hodge has been overshadowed by all-purpose guy Dexter McCluster, but with McCluster getting more carries at RB out of necessity, Hodge should get more passes his way. If Hodge has a big day vs Berry and Co. then that is a great surprise pick.
No Brainers:
Jordan Shipley, Texas-Shipley broke Texas’ all-time receiving record last week in a career day with 273 yds on 11 catches vs UCF. He is the frontrunner for the Biletnikoff Award with 75 receptions for 1,050 yds (14.0) with 6 TDs ranking #2 in the NCAA in rec pg and #4 in receiving ypg. Shipley has five 100+ yd receiving games this year and takes on a Baylor defense allowing 235 pass ypg (#52 in my rankings).
DEFENSES:
MY DEFENSES of the WEEK (3 Selections): TCU, Oregon and Ohio St
TCU vs Utah-This is TCU’s last real threat to keep them out of the BCS and both teams are undefeated in MWC play. TCU is #3 in the NCAA in total defense allowing just 241 ypg and #5 in the NCAA in scoring defense allowing 11.2 ppg. Utah averages 411 total ypg and 29 ppg, but my computer predicts that TCU will hold them to 215 total yds and 9 points (one-third of their season average!). TCU will leave no doubters after this one.
Oregon vs Arizona St-Oregon is off a disappointing loss to Stanford, but still controls its own destiny in reaching the Rose Bowl. This week the Ducks take on an Arizona St team averaging 354 total ypg and there is a possibility that ASU might be starting true freshman QB Brock Osweiler in his first career start at Autzen stadium. Osweiler took over last week and threw for 153 yds with a 1-1 ratio after starter Danny Sullivan was yanked after throwing 2 ints. Oregon allows 418 ypg and 20.9 ppg, but my computer predicts that Oregon will hold ASU to 240 yds and 13 points.
Ohio St vs Iowa-The Bucks dominated the line of scrimmage vs Penn St and rattled the Big Ten’s best QB Clark holding the Lions to Clark-era lows in points (7), FD’s (9) and yards (201). The Bucks now return to the Horseshoe to face an injury-riddled Iowa offense which will be without 3 offensive starters including QB Ricky Stanzi. The Hawks will start an all freshmen backfield with true frosh RB Wegher and rFr James Vandenberg who hit just 9 of 27 for 82 yds with 1 int in relief during last week’s game vs Northwestern. The Bucks will be ready to tee off on a QB making his first road start in what is the de facto Big Ten championship game. Iowa averages 350 yards per game on offense and is #15 in the country.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
UCLA vs Washington St-I think picking 2 Pac-10 defenses in the same week would be considered a surprise by most folks. UCLA is middle of the Pac at #5 in the Pac 10 in total defense allowing 359 total ypg and #5 in scoring defense allowing 23 ppg. This week they take on a Washington St team still under construction and my computer said they will hold them to 13 pts and 289 total yds and both of those totals are well under UCLA’s season averages.
Boise St vs Idaho-Boise comes in #10 in the NCAA in total defense allowing just 272 ypg and #14 in scoring defense allowing just 16 ppg. This week they take on an Idaho team that is averaging 437 ypg (#22 in the NCAA) and 30.8 ppg (#31). My computer predicts that Boise will hold Idaho to just 277 yds and 21 points, which are both well below their averages, but I think after last week’s scare vs Louisiana Tech, Boise will go for the throat in this instate rivalry to stay in the BCS hunt.
UPSET OF THE WEEK:
MY PICK for UPSET OF THE WEEK: UTEP over SMU
Last year UTEP outgained SMU 544-201 and won convincingly 36-10. This year UTEP is off a crushing overtime loss to Tulane in which they allowed the Green Wave to tie the game with :01 left. At 3-6 UTEP is in a must-win situation if they want to keep bowl hopes alive while SMU theoretically just needs to win 1 of their last 3 games to be bowl eligible. SMU has struggled a bit versus ground-oriented teams allowing 240 rush ypg vs UAB, TCU, East Carolina and Navy with a 2-2 record in those games. UTEP is still the only team to beat CUSA leader Houston (8-1 with 2 wins over Big 12 teams), so I think the Miners will pull out all the stops this week and RB Buckram has been outstanding with 3 consecutive 100+ yd games including 234 yds (6.9) and 3 TDs last week.
A special thanks to our friends at CFFinsider.com for providing us with their Week 11 Rankings
| Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver |
| 1) Case Keenum, HOU @ CFLA | 1) Jacquizz Rodgers, ORST vs WASH | 1) Jordan Shipley, TEX @ BAY |
| 2) Colin Kaepernick, NEV vs FRST | 2) Donald Buckram, UTEP @ SMU | 2) James Cleveland, HOU @ CFLA |
| 3) Dwight Dasher, MDTN vs LALF | 3) Bernard Pierce, TEMP @ AKRN | 3) Danario Alexander, MO @ KNST |
| 4) Joe Webb, UAB @ MEM | 4) Robert Turbin, UTST vs SJST | 4) DeMarco Sampson, SDST vs WY |
| 5) Dan LeFevour, CMCH vs TOL | 5) Dion Lewis, PITT vs ND | 5) LaGregory Sapp, LAMO vs WKTY |
| 6) Kellen Moore, BOST vs IDAH | 6) Brandon West, WMCH @ EMCH | 6) James Rodgers, ORST vs WASH |
| 7) Max Hall, BYU @ NMEX | 7) Chad Spann, NIU vs BLST | 7) Greg Salas, HAW vs NMSU |
| 8) Colt McCoy, TEX @ BAY | 8) Ryan Mathews, FRST @ NEV | 8) Emmanuel Sanders, SMU vs UTEP |
| 9) Diondre Borel, UTST vs SJST | 9) Curtis Steele, MEM vs UAB | 9) Damaris Johnson, TULSA vs ECU |
| 10) Martevious Young, SMISS @ MRSH | 10) Montel Harris, BC @ VA | 10) Freddie Barnes, BGSU @ MIOH |
| 11) Ricky Dobbs, NAVY vs DEL | 11) Frank Goodin, LAMO vs WKTY | 11) Mardy Gilyard, CIN vs WVU |
| 12) G.J. Kinne, TULSA vs ECU | 12) John Clay, WIS vs MICH | 12) Jermaine Kearse, WASH @ ORST |
| 13) Ryan Mallett, ARK vs TROY | 13) Shawnbrey McNeal, SMU vs UTEP | 13) Antonio Brown, CMCH vs TOL |
| 14) Bryant Moniz, HAW vs NMSU | 14) Reggie Arnold, AKST @ FAU | 14) Jeremy Williams, TUL @ RICE |
| 15) Zac Dysert, MIOH vs BGSU | 15) Lance Dunbar, NOTX @ FIU | 15) Titus Young, BOST vs IDAH |
| 16) Tyler Sheehan, BGSU @ MIOH | 16) Rodney Stewart, COL @ IWST | 16) Ryan Broyles, OKLA vs TXAM |
| 17) Ryan Lindley, SDST vs WY | 17) C.J. Spiller, CLEM @ NCST | 17) Jonathan Baldwin, PITT vs ND |
| 18) Riley Skinner, WFST vs FSU | 18) Vince Murray, NAVY vs DEL | 18) Tim Brown, RUT vs SOFL |
| 19) Trey Revell, LAMO vs WKTY | 19) Vai Taua, NEV vs FRST | 19) Austin Pettis, BOST vs IDAH |
| 20) Daryll Clark, PSU vs IND | 20) Mark Ingram, ALA @ MSU | 20) Jared Perry, MO @ KNST |
| 21) Jeremiah Masoli, ORE vs AZST | 21) Jermaine Thomas, FSU @ WFST | 21) Marshall Williams, WFST vs FSU |
| 22) Tim Tebow, FLA @ SOCAR | 22) Andre Anderson, TUL @ RICE | 22) Armon Binns, CIN vs WVU |
| 23) Levi Brown, TROY @ ARK | 23) Jeremy Avery, BOST vs IDAH | 23) Patrick Edwards, HOU @ CFLA |
| 24) Joey Elliott, PUR vs MIST | 24) Jared Tew, AF vs UNLV | 24) Graham Zug, PSU vs IND |
| 25) Russell Wilson, NCST vs CLEM | 25) Jonathan Dwyer, GTCH @ DUKE | 25) Ronald Johnson, USC vs STAN |
| 26) Jake Locker, WASH @ ORST | 26) Harvey Unga, BYU @ NMEX | 26) Michael Floyd, ND @ PITT |
| 27) Bill Stull, PITT vs ND | 27) Charles Clay, TULSA vs ECU | 27) Jeremy LaFrance, AKRN vs TEMP |
| 28) Zach Collaros, CIN vs WVU | 28) Damion Fletcher, SMISS @ MRSH | 28) Shay Hodge, MISS vs TENN |
| 29) Blaine Gabbert, MO @ KNST | 29) Ryan Williams, VATC @ MYLD | 29) Nelson Rosario, UCLA @ WAST |
| 30) Nick Foles, ARZ @ CAL | 30) Brynn Harvey, CFLA vs HOU | 30) Golden Tate, ND @ PITT |
| Tight End | Kicker | Defense |
| 1) Dorin Dickerson, PITT vs ND | 1) Kyle Brotzman, BOST vs IDAH | 1) Alabama, ALA @ MSU |
| 2) Cody Slate, MRSH vs SMISS | 2) Leigh Tiffin, ALA @ MSU | 2) Texas, TEX @ BAY |
| 3) Nick Tow-Arnett, MINN vs SDKST | 3) Jake Rogers, CIN vs WVU | 3) BYU, BYU @ NMEX |
| 4) Dennis Pitta, BYU @ NMEX | 4) Alan Gendreau, MDTN vs LALF | 4) Boston College, BC @ VA |
| 5) D.J. Williams, ARK vs TROY | 5) Justin Kahut, ORST vs WASH | 5) Oregon, ORE vs AZST |
| 6) Jason Harmon, FAU vs AKST | 6) Dan Hutchins, PITT vs ND | 6) Northern Ill, NIU vs BLST |
| 7) Brian Linthicum, MIST @ PUR | 7) Philip Welch, WIS vs MICH | 7) Florida, FLA @ SOCAR |
| 8) Alston Umuolo, SDST vs WY | 8) Caleb Sturgis, FLA @ SOCAR | 8) Ohio St, OSU vs IOWA |
| 9) Joe Halahuni, ORST vs WASH | 9) Grant Ressel, MO @ KNST | 9) Penn St, PSU vs IND |
| 10) Jack Doyle, WKTY @ LAMO | 10) Mike Salerno, NIU vs BLST | 10) Temple, TEMP @ AKRN |
| 11) Zack Pianalto, UNC vs MIA | 11) Brandon McManus, TEMP @ AKRN | 11) Georgia Tech, GTCH @ DUKE |
| 12) Tracy Moore, OKST vs TXTC | 12) Hunter Lawrence, TEX @ BAY | 12) UCLA, UCLA @ WAST |
| 13) Ben Thayer, EMCH vs WMCH | 13) Erik Soderberg, AF vs UNLV | 13) Virginia Tech, VATC @ MYLD |
| 14) Dennis Morris, LATC @ LSU | 14) Alex Tejada, ARK vs TROY | 14) Boise St, BOST vs IDAH |
| 15) Patrick Devenny, COL @ IWST | 15) Mitch Payne, BYU @ NMEX | 15) Nebraska, NEB @ KAN |
| 16) Richie Brockel, BOST vs IDAH | 16) Chris Philpott, LOU vs SYR | 16) Tulsa, TULSA vs ECU |
| 17) Jeremy Mitchell, UTST vs SJST | 17) Craig Ratanamorn, MRSH vs SMISS | 17) Iowa, IOWA @ OSU |
| 18) Aaron Hernandez, FLA @ SOCAR | 18) Nate Whitaker, STAN @ USC | 18) USC, USC vs STAN |
| 19) Cameron Graham, LOU vs SYR | 19) Casey Barth, UNC vs MIA | 19) Air Force, AF vs UNLV |
| 20) Ed Dickson, ORE vs AZST | 20) Chris Ulinski, UTST vs SJST | 20) TCU, TCU vs UTAH |
| 21) Kyle Efaw, BOST vs IDAH | 21) Matt Waldron, VATC @ MYLD | 21) Arizona, ARZ @ CAL |
| 22) Jeff Lindsay, PUR vs MIST | 22) Erik Folk, WASH @ ORST | 22) California, CAL vs ARZ |
| 23) Lance Kendricks, WIS vs MICH | 23) Aric Goodman, COL @ IWST | 23) Cincinnati, CIN vs WVU |
| 24) Logan Paulsen, UCLA @ WAST | 24) Kevin Goessling, FRST @ NEV | 24) UNC, UNC vs MIA |
| 25) Garrett Graham, WIS vs MICH | 25) Radi Jabour, LAMO vs WKTY | 25) South Fla, SOFL @ RUT |
| 26) Luke Aubrey, LALF @ MDTN | 26) Matt Reagan, MEM vs UAB | 26) Wisconsin, WIS vs MICH |
| 27) Taylor Wardlow, RICE vs TUL | 27) Eric Ellestad, MINN vs SDKST | 27) Clemson, CLEM @ NCST |
| 28) Adrien Robinson, CIN vs WVU | 28) Trevor Cook, MIOH vs BGSU | 28) Tennessee, TENN @ MISS |
| 29) Jamari Grant, FAU vs AKST | 29) Josh Czajkowski, NCST vs CLEM | 29) Rutgers, RUT vs SOFL |
| 30) Anthony McCoy, USC vs STAN | 30) Matt Szymanski, SMU vs UTEP | 30) Hawaii, HAW vs NMSU |
A special thanks to our friends at CollegeFootballGeek.com for providing us with their Waiver Wire Report for Week 11.
WAIVER WIRE REPORT – WEEK 11
Need to bolster your roster? Here is a look at the top college fantasy football prospects who may be available on the waiver wire.
QUARTERBACKS
Jeff VanCamp, Florida Atlantic-With Rusty Smith out for the year, VanCamp threw for 254 yards and 3 TDs, and tacked on 24 rushing yards and a score.
Ricky Dobbs, Navy-Dobbs was dropped in many leagues after he missed some time due to injury. He came back strong in a win over Notre Dame, and D-II Delaware and Hawaii are left on the schedule.
Zac Dysert, Miami(OH)-The freshman continues to tear up the MAC. He threw for 426 yards and 3 TDs on Saturday, marking the third consecutive week he’s passed for more than 340 yards. He also is a threat on the ground, as he’s rushed for nearly 300 yards on the season.
Trey Revell, UL-Monroe-Revell returned from injury against UNT and produced a solid 22 point fantasy effort. Up next is an outstanding match up against Western Kentucky.
Sean Canfield, Oregon State-Canfield is an option in BCS-only formats with Washington and Wazzu left on the docket. He’s thrown for over 290 yards in 5 of his last 6 games.
RUNNING BACKS
Shane Vereen, Cal-With Jahvid Best suffering from a nasty concussion, Vereen becomes the #1 running option for Cal.
Darius Ashley, Louisville-Ashley toted the rock 33 times for 164 yards against WVU last week. If Victor Anderson continues to miss time, Ashley is a decent BCS option this week against Syracuse.
Vince Murray, Navy-The Midshipmen RB has rushed for over 100 yards in 4 straight games. He should continue this string again the Delaware Blue Hens this week.
WIDE RECEIVERS
LaGregory Sapp, UL-Monroe-Has scored over 10 fantas points in each of his last seven games, culminating in a 34 point outburst on Saturday against North Texas.
Kendall Berry, Florida Int’l-Berry is listed as a WR but is used more like a RB. He rushed 19 times for 103 yards and 3 scores on Saturday, and only caught one ball for -4 yards.
Michael Floyd, Notre Dame-Floyd came back from injury with a vengeance, catching 10 balls for 141 yards and a score.
Armand Robinson, Miami(OH)-A-Rob has caught 24 balls over the past 3 games, including 10-118-2 on Saturday.
TIGHT ENDS
Jamari Grant, Florida Atlantic-Grant has been on our waiver list before. He continues to equal or better the production of teammate Jason Harmon.
Joe Halahuni, Oregon State-The sophomore has posted two 100 yard receiving games in the last three weeks. He posted 6-128-0 last week. He has yet to reach the endzone this season.
DEFENSES
UCLA vs. WSU
Navy vs. Delaware
A special thanks to our friends at CollegeFootballGeek.com for providing us for their Sneaky Plays for Week 11.
SNEAKY PLAYS – WEEK 11
Do you need roster help this weekend, but missed out on the hot waiver wire pick ups? Here are some sneaky, under-the-radar players who have favorable matchups this week.
Quarterbacks
Kirk Cousins QB Michigan State vs. Purdue: This Spartan is coming off his best game of the season last week when he threw for 352 yards and 2 scores versus Western Michigan. This week he gets to participate in what should be a shoot out with the Boiler Makers of Purdue. The Spartans should be able to exploit the Purdue secondary early and often.
Chris Todd QB Auburn vs. Georgia: While not a weekly fantasy starter, this senior quarterback has proven to be very good with the right match up. He has a very favorable tilt this week against a porous Bulldog defense. The Tigers should be able to move the ball easily down the field and Todd should put up some nice fantasy numbers.
Sean Canfield QB Oregon State vs. Washington: This Beaver makes another appearance on the list this week. He has been on fire as of late and is coming off a huge game against Cal last week. With a putrid Huskies defense which ranks 111th against the pass on the docket, Canfield should be a lock for 300 and 2 touchdowns
Running Backs
Ryan Houston RB North Carolina vs. Miami: This bruising tail back is now the starter for the Tar Heels after the season ending injury to Shaun Draughn. In his new role last week, Houston rumbled all over Duke to the tune of 37 carries for 164 yards. I would expect UNC to use this kid as battering ram all day long against the Hurricanes. He makes a good choice for a #2 running back in Week 11.
Jermaine Thomas RB Florida State vs. Wake Forest: This talented sophomore has been on a nice run with 305 yards and 3 scores in his last 2 games. This week he may see even more work as the Seminoles look to replace starting quarterback Christian Ponder who is out for the season. Now he gets to take his shot against the 91st ranked rush defense of the Demon Deacons. I love this kid this week and expect a big outing.
Montee Ball RB Wisconsin vs. Michigan: A highly touted freshman, Ball is fresh off his best game as a collegian. With starting running back John Clay out for the second half of the game last week, the Badgers didn’t miss a beat as Montee toted the ball for 115 yards and 2 scores. Regardless of whether Clay plays this week or not, Ball should have no problem putting up nice numbers against a lousy Michigan defense.
Wide Receiver
Derek Moye WR Penn State vs. Indiana: Before getting shut out against Ohio State, this Nittany Lion is on a tear with 3 straight games of 6 receptions and 2 scores. With the 103rd ranked pass defense of the Hoosiers coming to Happy Valley, Moye should continue to build upon his recent success. I look for a bounce back effort out of Penn State and Moye should be a big part of it.
Tight End
Joe Halahuni TE Oregon State vs. Washington: With the tight end position being so thin, it is a blessing to find one that might actually produce. This Beaver has had over 120 yards receiving in 2 of his last 3 games. Now he gets the benefit of playing against Washington and their 111th ranked pass defense. You can do much worse than this sophomore this week.
Week 11 Sneaky Defenses:
Minnesota vs. South Dakota State
Army vs. VMI
Navy vs. Delaware
UCLA vs. Washington State
More…
For more college fantasy football information, visit CollegeFootballGeek.com:
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