College Football Conference Championship Predictions

Georgia needs a huge game out of their quarterback Aaron Murray if they are going to upset Alabama. (Sam Greenwood)

5. Conference USA Football Championship Game - 12:00 PM EST, ESPN2/ESPN 3D
Prediction: Tulsa 27 UCF 24

4. Atlantic Coast Conference Championship Game - 8:00 PM EST, ESPN/WatchESPN
Prediction: Florida State 24 Georgia Tech 10

3. Big Ten Conference Championship Game - 8:17 PM EST, FOX
Prediction: Nebraska 23 Wisconsin 21

2. Big 12 Conference Championship Game - 8:00 PM EST, ABC
Prediction: Kansas State 31 Texas 17

1. Southeastern Conference Championship Game - 4:00 PM EST, CBS
Prediction: Alabama 17 Georgia 13

College Football Week 11 Preview and Predictions

Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel will have to play the best game of his young career if the Aggies hope of upsetting Alabama. (Brett Davis)

5. #2 Kansas State (9-0) @ TCU (6-3) - 7:00 PM EST, FOX

Kansas State continues to roll through their schedule raking up big win time and time again. However, they may be without their Heisman favorite quarterback when the travel to Fort Worth to take on TCU. Collin Klein suffered an apparent head injury during the third quarter of the Wildcats' 44-30 win over Oklahoma State last week. Head coach Bill Snyder has been mum on Klein's status, but he will certainly have his team well-prepared and ready to play. TCU has had their ups and downs this season, but come into Saturday's showdown off their best win of the season. The Horned Frogs went into Morgantown and beat West Virginia 39-38 in double overtime. Freshman quarterback Trevone Boykin came up with big throws junior wide receiver Josh Boyce and senior tight end Corey Fuller when he need to. TCU will need another big game out of Boykin and his offense if they hope to upset Kansas State.

Prediction: Kansas State 38 TCU 27

4. #21 Mississippi State (7-2) @ #7 LSU (7-2) - 7:00 EST, ESPN/WatchESPN

Mississippi State used a cupcake schedule to start the season 7-2. Their last two games have exposed this reality as the Bulldogs got blown out by Alabama and Texas A&M. Junior quarterback Tyler Russell had 15 touchdown passes to only one interception in the first seven wins, but had only own touchdown and two interceptions in the two losses. The Bulldogs defense has struggled as well. They gave up 38 points in each of the loss and a combined 1,107 yards. LSU comes into this game off an emotional loss to rival Alabama. The Tigers need to put the loss behind them because they are still in the BCS picture. On offense, LSU has began to find its identity. Junior quarterback Zach Mettenberger has steadily imporved and freshman tailback Jeremy Hill has emerged as the team's top back. The Tigers defense continues to be their foundation.

Prediction: LSU 24 Mississippi State 10

3. Penn State (6-3) @ #16 Nebraska (7-2) - 3:30 PM EST, ABC/ESPN2

Penn State doesn't have a postseason to play for, but they can play spoiler to some conference rivals. The Nittany Lions have gotten much better from the start of the season having won six of seven. Senior quarterback Matt McGloin has surprisingly emerged as one of the Big Ten's best quarterbacks. Freshman tight end Kyle Carter has been his top target, but is questionable to play after missing last week's game due to injury. Junior wide receiver Brandon Moseby-Felder stepped up to fill the void and may need to do so again this week. Nebraska is in the Big Ten Legends division driver seat, but was lucky to beat Michigan State last week. Junior quarterback Taylor Martinez is one of the best dual threat quarterbacks in the country. In the win over the Spartans, he had four combined touchdowns, but also three interceptions. Sophomore running back Ameer Abdullah has had three straight 100-yard rushing games.

Prediction: Penn State 27 Nebraska 24

2. #11 Oregon State (7-1) @ #14 Stanford (7-2) - 3:00 PM EST, FOX

These are very similar teams. Both have strong, physical defenses and have had surprising replacement quarterbacks emerge to play well. Oregon State surprisingly started the season 6-0. Last week, the Beavers rebounded from a tough loss at Washington to beat Arizona State at home. Junior quarterback Cody Vaz was called into duty when Sean Mannion was injured. This big game will be just the fourth start of his collegiate career. Similarly, Stanford freshman quarterback Kevin Hogan will make his first career start in this game. He played well last week coming in for Josh Nunes, but that was against Colorado's defense.

Prediction: Stanford 20 Oregon State 17

1. #15 Texas A&M (7-2) @ #1 Alabama (9-0) - 3:30 PM EST, CBS

Alabama is coming off a physical, emotional win over rival LSU. Now, they must focus on not having a letdown against one of the SEC's best offenses. Texas A&M has a solid first year in the SEC largely due to the phenomenal play of freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel. His 2,527 passing yards are second most in the SEC, and he leads the conference in rushing with 922 yards. His 31 total touchdowns tops the league as well. However, Manziel did only rush for 27 yards and had three interceptions in the Aggies loss to LSU. He will have to play much better if they hope to had top ranked and undefeated Alabama. The Crimson Tide's defense is vicious, and they have a Heisman caliber quarterback as well in AJ McCarron.

Prediction: Alabama 27 Texas A&M 24

College Football Week 10 Preview and Predictions

Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron looks to guide his team through its toughest test yet in rival LSU. (Kevin C. Cox)

5. Mississippi (5-3) @ #6 Georgia (7-1) - 3:30 PM EST, CBS

Last week, Georgia came up with a huge win when they needed one. Their defense stepped up and led them to a 17-9 upset of previously unbeaten Florida. The win put them in the driver's seat to win the SEC East and advance to the SEC championship in Atlanta. All they need to do is win out and they are in. However, the problem is that same defense has been subject to letdown and cannot afford to against Ole Miss. The Rebels explosive offense is led by sophomore quarterback Bo Wallace. The unit has averaged 32.4 points per game and scored a combined 71 points the last two weeks in wins over Auburn and Arkansas. Wallace will have a difficult task against the Bulldogs defense. Junior linebacker Jarvis Jones was an absolute game changer against Florida with 13 tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Prediction: Georgia 27 Mississippi 24

4. #20 Nebraska (6-2) @ Michigan State (5-4) - 3:30 PM EST, ABC/ESPN2

Nebraska got the huge win at home against Michigan last week. The win put them in control of the Big Ten Legends Division. Now, they have to win out to advance to the Big Ten championship. They will have to travel first to East Lansing to take on a rejuvenated Michigan State team. The Spartans are mired in a disappointing season, but came up with a big upset of Wisconsin on the road. They will now look to pull off another upset. This matchup features two opposing forces. The Cornhuskers lead the Big Ten in scoring, total offense and rushing yards. Conversely, the Spartans led the conference in points allowed, yards allowed and rushing defense. They will have to try and slow down Nebraska's dual-threat quarterback Taylor Martinez and sophomore tailback Ameer Abdullah.

Prediction: Michigan State 17 Nebraska 16

3. #24 Oklahoma State (5-2) @ #2 Kansas State (8-0) - 8:00 PM EST, ABC

Kansas State has taken care of business all season long. They have knocked off ranked opponents on the road in Oklahoma and West Virginia. Last week, they destroyed Texas Tech at home. They will look for their third straight win over a ranked opponent on Saturday against Oklahoma State. The Wildcats are led by Heisman favorite Collin Klein at quarterback. They can put up points on the scoreboard all day long, scoring a combined 110 points the last two weeks. The Cowboys will look to keep the Wildcats offense off the field as much as possible behind the strong running game of junior tailback Joseph Randle. He has rushed for a combined 277 yards and three touchdowns the last two weeks.

Prediction: Kansas State 34 Oklahoma State 24

2. #4 Oregon (8-0) @ #17 USC (6-2) - 7:00 PM EST, FOX

Oregon continues to blow out its opponents with its dominating offense. They have scored at least 42 points in all of their eight wins so far this season. The Ducks have yet to move up in the BCS standings because of their weak strength of schedule. They will get their chance to proved against three ranked opponents in their last four games. The first is a big matchup against rival USC in Los Angeles. The Trojans got caught looking ahead to the big matchup and were upset 39-36 by Arizona.

USC will need a huge game out of senior quarterback Matt Barkley and his favorite target, sophomore wide receiver Marquise Lee. Lee has emerged as one of the best receivers in college football. Last week, he had 16 catches for 345 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The Ducks offense is full of explosive playmakers as well. Last week against Colorado, sophomore quarterback Bryan Bennett rushed for three touchdowns, freshman quarterback Marcus Mariota threw for 136 yards and two scores and the rushing duo of Kenjon Barner and De'Anthony Thomas rushed for a combined 211 yards and three touchdowns. Thomas also had an amazing 73-yard punt return for a touchdown.

Prediction: Oregon 48 USC 38

1. #1 Alabama (8-0) @ #5 LSU (7-1) - 8:00 PM EST, CBS

Undefeated and top ranked Alabama has won every one of its games this season by at least 19 points. They will definitely get their toughest test of the season as the travel to Death Valley to take on LSU. The Tigers bounced back from a loss to Florida with wins over ranked opponents South Carolina and Texas A&M. They also got an extra week to prepare for the big rivalry game. LSU will definitely be looking to avenge their 21-0 loss to Alabama in the BCS National Championship game last season.

Both teams boast two of the best defenses in the nation. Alabama's offense is led by one the best game managers in college football. Junior quarterback A.J. McCarron has thrown 18 touchdowns this season without a single interceptions. In fact, dating back to last season, he has thrown 262 consecutive passes without a pick. The running back duo of junior Eddie Lacy and freshman T.J. Yeldon bring balance to the offense. LSU relies upon a deep stable of running backs, including Spencer Ware, Michael Ford, Jeremy Hill, Kenny Hilliard and fullback J.C. Copeland. At quarterback, junior Zach Mettenberger has had his ups-and-downs. He needs to limit his mistakes against the Crimson Tide.

Prediction: Alabama 23 LSU 13

College Football Week 9 Preview and Predictions

Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te'o will have to lead  the Fighting Irish as they look to stop Oklahoma. ( Matt Cashore)

5. #22 Michigan (5-2) @ Nebraska (5-2) - 8:00 PM EST, ESPN2/WatchESPN

This is a huge Legends Division matchup with important Big Ten and ultimately Rose Bowl implications. Nebraska's offense that leads the Big Ten in rushing (279.0 yards per game) and scoring (41.6 points per game) will go up against the Big Ten's top defense in the Michigan Wolverines. This game also features two of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the country in Nebraska's Taylor Martinez and Michigan's Denard Robinson. I believe that whichever quarterback is able to make the imperative plays will likely win the football game.

Prediction: Michigan 24 Nebraska 20

4. #14 Texas Tech (6-1) @ #3 Kansas State (7-0) - 3:30 PM EST, FOX

West Virginia looked like the cream of the crop in the Big 12 early in the season. Two weeks ago, the Mountaineers were blown out at Texas Tech. They returned last week to host Kansas State, but were blown out again. Now, the Red Raiders and Wildcats are among the favorites to win the Big 12. The two sides square off on Saturday. Texas Tech's senior quarterback Seth Doege has improved drastically over the course of the season. His counterpart, Kansas State's Collin Klein. After scoring a combined seven touchdowns against the Mountaineers last weekend, he has emerged as the Heisman favorite.

Prediction: Kansas State 34 Texas Tech 24

3. #11 Mississippi State (7-0) @ #1 Alabama (7-0) - 8:30 PM EST, ESPN/Watch ESPN

While this may be a matchup of unbeatens, most experts are predicting it will be another blowout win for Alabama. The nation's top ranked team boasts a steady offense and rock solid on defense as well. The Crimson Tide should be able to use their huge advantage in the trenches to affect their play on both sides of the football. Mississippi State will need a nearly perfect game out of junior quarterback Tyler Russell have a shot at pulling the upset. On the season, he has a 15-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Russell will look to continue that trend against the Crimson Tide defense on Saturday. He must quick reads, wise decisions, and be able to deliver the big play when needed.

Prediction: Alabama 38 Mississippi State 10

2. #2 Florida (7-0) vs. # 10 Georgia (6-1) - 3:30 PM EST, CBS

This game has big SEC championship game and BCS bowl implications. If Florida beats Georgia, they are in the SEC championship game for the first time since 2009. A Georgia win would mean that the Bulldogs completely control the SEC East. Sophomore quarterback Jeff Driskel and senior running back Mike Gillislee lead the way for the Gators explosive offense. The Bulldogs will be led on defense by junior outside linebacker Jarvis Jones. He is coming off an ankle injury, but is one of the best in the nation when fully healthy. On offense, junior quarterback Aaron Murray must be wise with the football and limit his mistakes.

Prediction: Florida 30 Georgia 24

1. #5 Notre Dame (7-0) @ #8 Oklahoma (5-1)- 8:00 PM EST, ABC

Notre Dame is undefeated this late in the season for the first time in a decade, but they definitely know there is still more work to be done in order for them to remain as  a BCS contender. One cannot talk about the Fighting Irish without mentioning their leader and one of the best players in all of college football, senior linebacker Manti Te'o. On offense, they expect to have sophomore quarterback Everett Golson back from injury and ready to start. He will be aided by a superb trio of running backs in Theo Riddick, Cierre Wood and George Atkinson III. Oklahoma uses a balanced offense to bring about success. Senior quarterback Landry Jones has looked much more comfortable as a passer recently. The Sooners also like to power rush the football. Their two main weapons here are junior tailback Damien Williams and sophomore quarterback Blake Bell.

Prediction: Notre Dame 24 Oklahoma 20

Breaking Down the Early Favorites for the BCS Bowls

Mike Gillislee and the Florida Gators were the big beneficiaries when the first BCS polls were released Sunday. (Sam Greenwood)

The first BCS polls for this season were released today. You can check out the polls for yourself below. There are definitely some surprises, such as the computers really liking Florida. Based off the polls, I am going to reveal my current predictions for the BCS bowls and look at which teams are on the radar for all of them as well.

The first BCS polls of the season were released Sunday. (Graphic credit to ESPN.com)

Discover BCS National Championship Game

Current Prediction: Alabama vs. Oregon

On the radar for BCS No. 1 & No. 2 spots: Florida, Notre Dame, Kansas State, Mississippi State, LSU, Oklahoma, USC

Analysis: Alabama has the edge on Florida right now in the human polls. If they both win out, they will meet in the SEC Championship Game to decide who will advance to the National Championship game. Both have hurdles to get past to get to that point. Oregon doesn't rank near was well in the computer polls, but if they go undefeated, it is hard to imagine them not in the National Championship game. Among the remaining undefeated teams, Notre Dame has the edge on Kansas State and Mississippi State based on strength of schedule. LSU, Oklahoma, USC are the one loss teams that could have a chance if they win out.

Rose Bowl Game presented by Vizio

Current Prediction: Michigan vs. USC

On the radar for the Big Ten spot: Nebraska, Wisconsin, Iowa

On the radar for the Pac-12 spot: Oregon, Oregon State, Arizona State

Analysis: With Ohio State and Penn State ineligible, it is hard to determine which team will arise out of the mediocrity as the Big Ten champion. With so much still undecided, I have to favor in honor of who I believe the biggest difference maker is. That player is Michigan's Denard Robinson. He has to make smart decisions  but all the talent needed is there. If Oregon doesn't make it to the National Championship game, they will likely be the Pac-12 team here. The question becomes if USC loses to both Oregon and Notre Dame, will they be ranked high enough to be eligible for a BCS bowl? If not, Oregon State or Arizona State could sneak in as an outsider.

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl

Current Prediction: Kansas State vs. Notre Dame

On the radar for the Big 12 spot: Oklahoma, Texas Tech, West Virginia

On the radar for the at-large spot: Florida State, Clemson, Oregon, USC, Oregon State, Ohio

Analysis: The Big 12 champion will almost certainly play here as Kansas State's odds of getting into the National Championship are slim to none. Right now, I am giving the edge to the Wildcats to play here based the fact that are the most well-positioned. I do not believe that they are the best team in the conference. Should they stumble, that opens the door for the above stated other Big 12 contenders. All three have legitimate shots at making it. Notre Dame will almost certainly play here, unless they are playing in the National Championship game or have more than two losses. If one of those things happens, it opens up the door for a one-loss, non-conference champion from the ACC or Pac-12. The Cinderella team looking in from the outside is Ohio University, who is 7-0. If the Bobcats run the table, the BCS will be busted wide open.

Allstate Sugar Bowl

Current Prediction: South Carolina vs. Oklahoma

On the radar for the SEC spot: Alabama, Florida, Mississippi State, Georgia, LSU

On the radar for the at-large spot: Kansas State, West Virginia, Texas Tech

Analysis: With how loaded the top of the SEC is, you could end up seeing any of the contenders here. If Alabama wins the conference championship and goes undefeated, they will be in the National Championship game. However, the team they bet in the SEC title game, will likely miss out on the Sugar Bowl due to the loss. That opens the door up for a whole slate of SEC teams. The second best Big 12 will almost certainly play here, unless a team from their conference is in the National Championship game (not likely).

Discover Orange Bowl

Current Prediction: Florida State vs. Rutgers

On the radar for the ACC spot: Clemson, Virginia Tech

On the radar for the Big East spot: Louisville, Cincinnati

Analysis: It doesn't seem likely that a BCS buster will play a role in this game, meaning it will be the ACC champion against the Big East champion. Even though Florida State and Clemson both have one conference loss, I am giving the edge to the Seminoles based on their head-to-head win over the Tigers. The Big East boasts three undefeated teams as their cream of their crop. Louisville and Cincinnati have a big matchup coming up on October 26. I give Rutgers the edge over both of them based on their rock solid defense. The Scarlet Knights play the Cardinals the last week of the season in a game that could have huge implications.

College Football Week 1 Preview and Predictions

If #8 Michigan is going to upset #2 Alabama, quarterback Denard Robinson will have to have the game of his career. (Matthew Stockman)

Each Thursday night during the college football season, I will preview my top five games of the weekend and give my predictions. Special shout-out to South Carolina quarterback Conner Shaw, who with an injured shoulder led the Gamecocks to a 17-13 comeback victory at Vanderbilt tonight.

5. Tennessee vs. North Carolina State - 7:30 PM EST (Friday), ESPNU/WatchESPN

The last time these two schools played was 73 years ago. Much has changed from then. This game though could be a sign of things to come for both teams the rest of the season. Tennessee would prefer to forget last season. After stud wide receiver Justin Hunter went down in week three against Florida, the Volunteers finished 3-7 in their last ten games, with two of those wins coming over Buffalo and Middle Tennessee State. Conversely, North Carolina State ended last season playing their best football. The Wolfpack finished finished 6-2 in their last eight games, including an blowout upset of then-No. 8 ranked Clemson 37-13 and a win over Louisville in the Belk Bowl.

Tennessee's offense took a considerable blow with the departure of All-SEC wide receiver Da'rick Rogers. They do still have other solid talent at the wideout position led by Hunter and JUCO transfer Cordarrelle Patterson. Of course, the biggest question mark is likely the man who is trying to get them the ball, quarterback Tyler Bray. Even though this is Bray's third year as a starter, he has yet to win a football game outside the state of Tennessee. He appears to have all the tools, but has yet to have the toughness and composure to lead the Vols to a big win yet. The running back positions and the defense as a whole are a bit of question marks as well.

N.C. State's offense will be confidently led by quarterback Mike Glennon. Last season, Glennon threw for 3,054 yards and 31 touchdowns. The rest of the Wolfpack offense is loaded with talent and experience, especially the offensive line, which returns four out of five starters. The Wolfpack secondary is the foundation of their defense. Cornerback David Amerson and safety Earl Wolff are the cornerstones of that secondary. The Volunteers are going to have a difficult time moving the ball through the air on Friday night against N.C. State.

Prediction: N.C. State 31 Tennessee 20

4. #14 Clemson vs. Auburn - 7:00 PM EST (Saturday), ESPN/WatchESPN

For the third consecutive season, these two sides square off. The winner has gone on to do big things each season. In 2010, Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton led Auburn to the 27-24 overtime victory as part of their route to a National Championship run. Last season, it was Clemson who overcame a 21-7 deficit to beat Auburn 38-24. They went on to start the season 8-0 and won the Atlantic Coast Conference title.

Clemson will be without star wide receiver Sammy Watkins due to suspension (drug arrest). This means that more of the offensive weight will fall on the shoulders of quarterback Tahj Boyd and tailback Andre Ellington. After giving up an incredible 505 yards in their humiliating 70-33 loss to West Virginia in last year's Orange Bowl, Clemson knew they would have to improve on defense to have a chance at winning the ACC again. New defensive coordinator Brent Venables has established a zone scheme and worked on the group's flexibility. It will be interesting to see how long it takes for them to click as a unit.

Last season was a rebuilding one for Auburn. They hope that this season some of their young stars are ready to shine and to build upon the university's rich heritage. Sophomore Kiehl Frazier won the starting quarterback job for at least week one against Clemson. Frazier was a highly regarded recruiting prospect out of high school. He is a dangerous dual threat quarterback. Frazier will quickly begin to receive comparisons to his predecessor Newton before long. Auburn fans hope he can establish that type of legacy before his time there is done.

Prediction: Clemson 27 Auburn 17

3. Georgia Tech @ #16 Virginia Tech - 8:00 PM EST (Monday), ESPN/WatchESPN

The ACC Coastal Division "championship" could be this game in week one. The winner of this game has gone on to represent their division in the ACC Championship Game each of the past seven seasons. The Hokies have won the past two matchups against the Yellow Jackets. This year is no exception because Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech are among the favorites to win the ACC again. The winner will get a huge advantage,

Georgia Tech's triple option offense will be led by senior quarterback Tevin Washington. Washington led the team last season with 986 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. The tailback duo of Orwin Smith and David Sims should add to the attack as well. The Yellow Jackets hope that they have improved enough on defense to make a difference. The defensive core should be led by linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu. He had six sacks last season, but he has to keep his emotions in check.

Last season, Virginia Tech seemed to slowly improve just as their quarterback Logan Thomas did as well. Thomas has the talent to lead the Hokies to victory. In the backfield, redshirt freshman Michael Holmes is set to get the bulk of the carries. Holmes is highly regarded, but we will have to see how he fares when the spotlight is shining. The Hokies always seem to rely on a solid defense. This year is no exception. Players such as cornerback Kyle Fuller need to step up and make big plays to slow down Georgia Tech's option attack.

Prediction: Virginia Tech 20 Georgia Tech 17

2. #24 Boise State @ #13 Michigan State - 8:00 PM EST (Friday), ESPN/WatchESPN

These two teams actually have quite a bit in common going into this new season. Last season, both Boise State and Michigan State had very successful seasons, winning a combined 23 wins, including their respective bowl games. Both teams also have to replace the most successful quarterbacks in school history and talented tailbacks with unproven backups.

Junior Joe Southwick was named the starting quarterback for Boise State. He played in limited action last season. Southwick will rely on the help of sixth-year tailback D.J. Harper. While this is first season as the Broncos' primary back, Harper did rush for a season-high 125 yards and two touchdowns against TCU last season. Matt Miller and Mitch Burroughs, the Broncos' top returning wide receivers, should also help to provide reliable targets for Southwick to look for when in need.

Michigan State's newly named starting quarterback is Andrew Maxwell. He got to be former Spartans quarterback Kirk Cousins' primary understudy the past two seasons. Maxwell will undoubtedly rely upon junior tailback Le'Veon Bell. While this is Bell's first season as the Spartans' primary back, he did rush for 948 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The Spartans return one of the Big Ten's best defenses this year. Defensive end William Gholston is primed to wreak havoc on the Broncos' offensive line.

Prediction: Michigan State 20 Boise State 13

1. #8 Michigan vs. #2 Alabama - 8:00 PM EST (Saturday), ABC

A top-ten matchup in week one sees two of the BCS favorites squaring off with a lot of pride on the line. While the vast majority of the Top 25 teams are enjoying cupcake games, Michigan and Alabama are set to battle in a game that has huge national championship implications. Both teams are coming off huge seasons. Alabama throttled LSU in the BCS National Championship Game last season. Head coach Nick Saban is looking to build a dynasty in Tuscaloosa. In his first year in Ann Arbor, head coach Brady Hoke transformed Michigan from a floundering, mediocre team into Sugar Bowl victors. The talent was already there, they just needed the guidance to get there.

Michigan is going to need even more wise counsel from Hoke if they are going to have a shot at upsetting Alabama. The talent is there to make it happen. Senior quarterback Denard Robinson is among the preseason favorites to win the Heisman. The ever dangerous dual threat, Robinson improved drastically as a passer last season. The one part of his game that he needs to continue to work on, especially against Alabama, is turning the ball over. Robinson has never faced a defense as good as Alabama's, but if he is able to find room to run and limits his mistakes, Michigan has a chance to win. Another big factor for the Wolverines is the playing status of tailback Fitzgerald Toussaint. On Tuesday, Toussaint plead guilty to driving while visually impaired, stemming back to an arrest over the summer. His playing status is unclear for Saturday's game. If Toussaint does play, he could be a big x-factor in deciding the outcome of the game.

When looking at Alabama's offense, the thing that sticks out of the most is the extremely talented offensive line. Led by center Barrett Jones, the offensive line could end up featuring as many as three All-Americans. They will definitely be a huge help to the guys playing behind them. Junior quarterback AJ McCarron may not be flashy like Robinson, but he obviously knows how to win football games. Tailbacks Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon should share the bulk of the work for the backfield. The Crimson Tide defense remains as solid as ever. One guy in particular to keep an eye on is safety Robert Lester. Not only will he play a crucial role in containing Robinson, but he is also known for his ability to intercept passes well. Lester will be primed and ready in case Robinson does make a mistake.

Prediction: Alabama 24 Michigan 20

Noles and Tide Roll on National Signing Day

Top 5 Class of 2012 Recruiting Classes

1. Alabama - The freshly crowned national champions look to be loaded up for more runs at the title for years to come. The incoming class features 28 commits. 13 of those are ESPNU Top 150 recruits. The Crimson Tide's top recruits include Landon Collins (#1 safety), Eddie Williams (#2 athlete), Cyrus Jones (#4 athlete), and Chris Black (#2 wide receiver).

2. Florida State - No team had a better National Signing Day then Florida State. Their 2012 class currently has 18 commits, 9 of which are ESPNU Top 150 recruits. The Seminoles' defense looks to be beefing up in a big way. Not only did they get the #1 overall ranked recruit in defensive end Mario Edwards, but they made headlines when Eddie Goldman (#1 defensive tackle) committed to come to Tallahassee as well. With more top recruits verbally committed, things seem to be headed in the right direction for Florida State.

3. Texas - Coming off a disappointing season, Texas still managed to bring in a solid recruiting class. They signed 27 commits. 11 of them are ESPNU Top 150 Recruits. The Longhorns' class is headlined by the #2 overall player, Jonathan Gray (#1 running back), and Malcom Brown (#2 defensive tackle). Texas will look to get back to winning form behind some of these young players.

4. Florida - Just like Texas, Florida is coming off a disappointing season, but that didn't stop the Gators from signing a solid class either. Their class features 21 commits (8 ESPNU Top 150 recruits). The Gators' top two recruits hail from North Carolina, the top offensive lineman recruit, D.J. Humphries (#1 offensive tackle), and Jonathan Bullard (#4 defensive end). Florida is looking to bounce back next year as well.

5. Georgia - Georgia rounds out the top five classes, which are all from southern universities. The Bulldogs signed 17 commits, 5 of which are ESPNU Top 150 recruits. The top man coming to campus is Keith Marshall (#2 running back). He will likely be looking to run through holes created by another of Georgia's top recruits, John Theus. The Bulldogs are looking to stay competitive in what is a brutally tough top tier of the SEC.

Top Story of the Day

Dorial Green-Beckham - Where DGB would sign was probably the top story coming into the day. The Missouri native had almost every top school offering him a scholarship to come play. The big deal with DGB is that he was the top uncommitted prospect coming into the day and the #1 ranked high school wide receiver (#3 overall). All he did in high school was set the national career receiving record with 6,353 yards. Today, the 6-foot-6, 225-pound Green-Beckham stood at a podium in his high school gymnasium before a crowd of 1,500 people, about 20 television cameras, and a national television audience watching on ESPNU. Much to the delight of everyone in attendance, DGB announced his decision to stay home and play at the University of Missouri. As his family explained afterwards, it was always where he felt the most comfortable. The signing was huge for Mizzou, who becomes a member of the SEC on July 1. Before Wednesday, the Tigers stood on the outside of the ESPNU Top 25 classes looking in. They fully realized that eight other SEC teams were already in the Top 25, including three in the Top 5. The signing of DGB shows that Mizzou is ready to compete in the SEC. They might still have a long ways to go, but this signing was a big step in the right direction.

SEC Rivals Rematch in BCS National Championship

The LSU Tigers dominated every team they played this season, except the Alabama Crimson Tide. LSU outscored the rest of their opponents 491-131. The game earlier this season against Alabama ended in a LSU 9-6 win, even though the Crimson Tide had opportunities to win. The loss seemed to knock Alabama out of the national title picture, but they won the remainder of their games and got some help from other teams. This meant that the Crimson Tide earned a rematch against LSU to determine who would win the BCS National Championship.

As I already mentioned, LSU has dominated opponents so far in their undefeated season. After coming off a suspension, quarterback Jordan Jefferson took over the reigns of the offense from Jarrett Lee. Jefferson is a dual threat and ran for 248 yards. He was one of five Tigers to run for at least that many yards in what is a balanced and deep running attack to say the least. Then, there is the highly-acclaimed LSU defense. They are led in the secondary by two All-American cornerbacks (the first time one team has ever had both), Tyrann Mathieu and Morris Claiborne. Mathieu turned in a season so impressive that he was a Heisman finalist and widely considered to be one of the most dynamic all-around players in the country. Honey Badger, which he likes to be referred to as, had two interceptions, six forced fumbles, and is a prolific punt returner, averaging 16.2 yards per return. The secondary definitely benefits from the great pass rush generated by the Tigers that led to 37 sacks. Defensive ends Sam Montgomery (9.0 sacks) and Barkevious Mingo (8.0 sacks) were responsible for much of the pressure.

The Alabama offense clearly relies on their top running back, Heisman finalist Trent Richardson. Richardson ran for 1583 yards and 20 touchdowns, but was held to 89 rushing yards in the first game against LSU. The Crimson Tide will also need quarterback A.J. McCarron to step up his game. McCarron has to be careful with the ball and make good decisions for his team. Alabama's defense has had just as dominant a defense this year as LSU. They are led by two All-American linebackers Courtney Upshaw and Dont'a Hightower. Upshaw had 8 1/2 sacks and 17 tackles for a loss during the season, while Hightower added a team-leading 81 tackles, 9 1/2 of those for a loss, and 3 sacks.

One of the keys for LSU is the play of quarterback Jordan Jefferson. Jefferson has been inconsistent at times this season and still shows some rust from missing the first four games of the season because of suspension. One of the keys for Alabama is finishing off drives. We know field goal kicking helped cost them the win in the last matchup, but the offense needs to do better. The Crimson Tide need to try and find the endzone, or at least set up shorter field goal attempts for their kickers.

While anything is possible, I expect another game dominated by these outstanding defenses. This is a difficult game to pick. Both teams matchup very well, and I expect it to be another close game. While it is difficult to beat a great team twice, I think that LSU gets it done. The Tigers have the difference makers and depth to get the job done. Prediction: LSU 20 Alabama 13

SEC West Trio Now Control the BCS Standings

I was out of town (in St. Louis with some friends) all weekend. As a result, the only college football I watched was the end of Missouri's win and the 1st quarter of LSU's dismantling of Ole Miss. I came to find out I missed the craziest weekend of the season.

It was a weekend that featured 3 of the BCS Top 5 teams losing. Oklahoma State's undefeated season was ended in double overtime by Iowa State. Oregon's comeback against USC came up short. Robert Griffin III lead Baylor to an impressive and gutsy win over Oklahoma.

When the latest BCS polls were revealed yesterday, everyone's thoughts were confirmed. For the first time ever, the Top 3 teams in the BCS Standings all were from the same conference. Not only are they from the same conference, they are from the same division, the SEC West. #1 LSU is still undefeated, but have to play #3 Arkansas this Friday afternoon. The Razorbacks' only loss is to Alabama. The Crimson Tide's only loss is to LSU.

If Arkansas beats LSU, all three of these teams would have one loss, but they are all to each other. Who is going to get to play Georgia in the SEC Championship? What happens if Georgia wins? The problem is only two teams can play in the BCS Championship Game. Who is it going to be? There is still a lot of football to be played to determine that.

Alabama, Michigan, & Nebraska All Choke and Fall

Alabama made the plays to beat the number one team in the land and rival LSU, but just couldn't put the ball in the endzone. Instead they settled for six field goal attempts and missed four of them, including one in overtime. LSU kicker Drew Alleman connected on his field goal attempt in overtime giving #1 LSU the 9-6 victory. The game was defensive dominated in most every aspect and featured many fine defensive plays, including a beautiful play where LSU safety Eric Reid took a jump ball away from Alabama tight end Michael Williams to prevent a touchdown. LSU is now in the driver seat to a berth in the SEC Championship Game and BCS National Championship Game.

Iowa was coming off a humiliating loss to Minnesota 22-21. In order for them to have a chance at a Big Ten championship, the Hawkeyes would most like win out the rest of the season. Their first opponent was the Michigan Wolverines. Michigan's defense didn't seem to have an answer for the Hawkeyes offense. Iowa quarterback James Vandenberg hooked up with wide receiver Marvin McNutt for nine catches and 101 yards. Marcus Coker ran for 132 yards and touchdowns. Offensively, Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson overcame some first half turnover mistake to do all he could through the air to lead the Wolverines to a comeback win, but came up just short. Were there many possible missed calls toward the end that went against the Wolverines? Yes, there were some close calls. However, Michigan never should have put themselves in that spot. Now, they are a game behind Michigan State in the Legends Division. Iowa now sits a game back as well. The Hawkeyes get another tough opponent at home next week in Michigan State. If they can pull the upset though, they will have completed a miraculous comeback that would propel them into first place in the division.

Who is Kain Colter? Everyone at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska were just shocked to find out. Nebraska fans had to be a little concerned when their Huskers 7-0 nearing half-time, but that's when Northwestern starting quarterback Dan Persa was injured, so back Kain Colter was brought in. Colter took over the second half. He completed only 4 passes, but they were for 115 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 57 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-25 upset win over #10 Nebraska. Nebraska played poorly early and their comeback came up just short when the Wildcats recovered an onside kick to help seal the victory. The Huskers now sit a game behind Michigan State in the Legends Division. They have tough road trip next week to Happy Valley, where they have to take on Penn State, the only team who is still undefeated in Big Ten play.