Cranial reduction surgery anyone?
So much for retiring to open a gambling service. I posted a meager 2-2 result against the spread last week while Jason apparently sought the advice of his lady en route to an impressive 4-0 run to take the season lead (Jason 6-1, Chris 5-2). Hell, I might call her for tips this week after taking Michigan -8 against Oregon.
Since it's Washington week, we've invited Mr. Wonderful's twin, Rick Neuheisel, to be this week's celebrity guest. As you know, the former Washington head coach prefers gambling on March Madness but with a $4.5 million settlement from the NCAA in his pocket he's throwing caution to the wind. How can you not like a guy that beat the NCAA out of millions and has his own drinking game?
Now on to the picks:
USC (-10) @ Nebraska (ABC 8:00) The #14 Huskers are looking to pull the upset to build on a 2-0 start including a 20-17 win at Wake Forest last week. Meanwhile, USC has had a week to prepare for Bill Callahan's squad following their less than impressive 38-10 win over Idaho two weeks ago. On paper, it looks like any chance for a Husker upset will rely on ASU transfer QB Sam Keller having a huge game.
Chris: Carroll v. Callahan is a mismatch regardless of home field. USC 31-16. Jason: There's something about the Trojans when the lights come on. They cover easy 38-20. SlickRick: Who cares about the game? The Song Girls are where it's at! USC 42-17.
Tennessee (+8) @ Florida (CBS 3:30) No need for a game breakdown, EDSBS has you covered with 50 Reasons Florida Rules And Tennessee Just Plain Sucks.
Chris: Again, it comes down to coaching for me. I'll take Meyer over Fullmer in anything but a meatloaf chugging contest. UF 37, UT 24 Jason: Herban still has the hot hand and you know Fulmer doesn't like beating good coaches. Gators 34, Vols 21. SlickRick: The Gators ruled my hoops bracket for two years so I gotta stay with 'em. Gators 38-27.
Arkansas (+3.5) @ Alabama (ESPN 6:45) Alabama will be out to avenge last year's double OT 24-23 loss but they'll have to stop Darren McFadden to do it. Speaking of 'Bama, when was the last time they were actually relevant in college football?
Chris: I have no idea what will happen but I can't stand that job slut Saban so I'll say 23-17 Arkansas. Jason: Bear Saban is still the same guy that was on the verge of getting canned at MSU prior to going 9-2 his final season in East Lansing. Hogs win outright, 28-21. SlickRick: Go easy on SlickNick. He seems like my kinda guy. Alabama 22-20.
Notre Dame (+9.5) @ Michigan (ABC 3:30) There are probably better games to pick from but I just can't resist. Considering UM at least has Mike Hart and Mario Manningham while ND has the worst offense in the country, it could be Lloyd's day to shine. Either way, one of these two will be 0-3 so I'll be smiling.
Chris: Total crapshoot. Michigan 17-6. Jason: Both of the teams suck so bad that I'm pissed that I actually have to think about this pick. Michigan 27, Notre Dame 17. SlickRick: I think I'll skip this one and watch Buckeye Booty instead...
