Articles

From Bubbles to Brackets

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:50:07 +0000

It is that time of year when you can feel the excitement as college basketball hopefuls are vying for a chance at a title. But before these teams can move through all the brackets, they have to get beyond the bubbles. With SEC teams still eager for the 2013 March Madness season, the big question now is who is going to move from bubbles to brackets?

Bubble Teams?

Colleges on the edge of getting into the tournament based on an upcoming game are known as bubble teams. And according to Bleacherreport.com there are about a dozen teams in the SEC trying to make the move beyond the bubble, including:

Arkansa Razorbacks.
Auburn Tigers.
LSU Tigers.
Texas A&M Aggies.

Not all of these teams will make it. But there are a few more that may have a good shot at getting to the end.

Alabama Crimson Tide

'Roll, tide, roll' is a familiar war cry for any Alabama fan, but if the Crimson want to roll on into the brackets they're going to have to do some more work. Sports writer Tim Keeney states, "A likely quarterfinal matchup with Tennessee could potentially serve as an elimination match". Team leaders to be watching:

#12 Trevor Releford.
#21 Rodney Cooper.
#5 Trevor Lacey.
#14 Moussa Gueye.

Kentucky Wildcats

The Wildcats have a long lineage of great basketball. John Clay at Kentucky.com believes "These Cats are too flawed...but a trip to the finals would surely convince the NCAA Selection Committee they deserve a spot in the field". Columnist Bobby Regan lists 5 things that UK needs to learn from their recent wins:

Julius Mays is their best on-ball defender.
With the win over Florida- they're the #2 SEC seed.
Alex Poythress can rebound against anyone.
Willie Cauley-Stein is their MVP.
They have the skills to play winning games.

Jerry Palm of CBS predicts Kentucky will be a #12 seed playing La Salle in the First Four game.

Tennessee Volunteers

Will Shelton and Rockytoptalk.com are bolstering the likelihood that the Volunteers can take it all the way this year. After last season's one-and-done tournament fade, Tennessee fans have witnessed the momentum lately and are positive the wins will continue. Shelton mentions what SEC viewers need to be watching for like:

Tennessee needing to beat:
- Winner of Ole Miss and South Carolina.
No bid-stealers in current conference tournaments.
Winners to hope for:
- Duke
- Memphis.
- Kansas.
- VCU.
- Michigan.
- UCLA.
- Missouri.

Becoming a Part of March Madness

March Madness really is like no other tournament. College basketball fans rally in the stands with school chants that have been around for decades. They stomp their feet, yell at the top of their lungs, paint their faces, and are more lively and demonstrative than any other fan base for any other sport. If you want to find a way to participate you can get some tickets and head to a game, have tournament parties with your friends, or find interactive contests like at www.21st.com/landing-pages/en/car-madness.jsp.

The SEC is going to be something to watch as their teams work to make it through March Madness. Get some tickets, or hop online and connect with other fans and find a way to be a part of the 2013 season!

Homer of the Year, Round 1

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 20:12:26 +0000

Alright folks, this is where we cut the crap and get down to business.
Some heavweight matchups right from the get go.
The winner of the No.1 v No.6 matchups is allowed a bye during the next round.

Poll will be open a full week. We want to make sure there's no controversial finishes- no SEC refs allowed.

Remember, some of these guys are hot right now, some have made the tourney based on preseason expectatons, some have a well-rounded homer resume.
Vote with your gut. This is why we play the games.

Get to it.

View attachment: HOTY.jpg

Basketball Power Rankings 1-27

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 05:10:20 +0000

Now that conference play is in full swing, I think that we should start to have some power rankings. This season has been full of surprises and upsets.

1. Florida- Florida is my number one team in this week’s power rankings. They are 6-0 in conference play and have looked really good. This past week Florida have beat Georgia and Mississippi State by a combined total of 52 points. Florida has shot 49% from the field and they average 73 points. The Gators’ leading scorer is Kenny Boynton. Boynton averages 13 points per a game and shoots 41%.

2. Ole Miss- Ole Miss takes my number two spot in this week’s power rankings. The Rebels are also 6-0 in the conference and they are on a nine game winning streak. This past week they have struggled a little but they beat both Tennessee and Auburn. Ole Miss averages 81 points and 40 rebounds per game. Their leading scorer is Marshall Henderson who averages 19 points per a game.

3. Missouri-Missouri is 4-2 in conference play but both of their losses were by 15 or more. This past week Mizzou struggled with South Carolina but looked really impressive against Vanderbilt. Mizzou averages 75 points and 42 rebounds per a game. The Tigers’ leading scorer is Laurence Bowers who averages 17 points per game while shooting 58%. Bowers has been out with a knee injury since Mizzou’s SEC opener against Alabama. Bowers should make his return next game which will really help Mizzou.

4. Alabama-Alabama is 4-2 in conference play and have been up and down all season. This past week Alabama beat Kentucky but they lost to Tennessee by one. Alabama averages only 65 points per a game but they shoot 45%. Alabama’s leading scorer is Trevor Releford. Releford averages 16 points per a game and he shoots 49% from the field.

5. Kentucky- Kentucky has really struggled by their standards but they are still 4-2 in conference play. This past week Kentucky lost to Alabama and just squeaked by LSU. Kentucky averages 76 points per a game on 48% shooting. They also get 39 rebounds and 15 assist. The Wildcats’ leading scorer is Archie Goodwin. Goodwin averages 15 points each game.

6. Tennessee-Tennessee is 2-4 in conference play. This past week Tennessee lost at Ole Miss but they upset Alabama. Tennessee averages 37 rebounds and only 65 points per a game. Tennessee’s leading scorer is Jordan McRae who averages 15 points per game.

7. South Carolina- South Carolina is 2-4 in conference play. They have had a pretty good past week. The Gamecocks beat Arkansas by 21 and gave Mizzou all they could handle in a close loss. They average 71 points and 38 rebounds per game. Their leading scorer is Brenton Williams who averages 12 points per game.

8. Arkansas-Arkansas is 3-3 in conference play. This past week they beat Mississippi State by 26 but they lost to South Carolina by 21. Arkansas looked really bad in their loss. The Razorbacks average 80 points and 16 assist per game. Their leading scorer is BJ Young who averages 17 points per game.

9. Georgia-Georgia is 2-4 in conference play. This past week they lost to Florida but won on the road at Texas A&M. They average only 59 points per game but they have all you can eat seats. Their leading scorer is Kentavious Caldwell-Pope who averages 17 points per game.

10. Vanderbilt- Vanderbilt is 2-4 in conference play. This past week they beat Auburn by 12 but lost to Mizzou by 22. They average only 60 points and 33 rebounds per game. Their leading scorer is Kedren Johnson who averages 15 points per game.

11. LSU- LSU is 1-5 in conference play. This past week they beat Texas A&M and almost upset Kentucky on the road. LSU averages 72 points and 15 assist per game. Their leading scorer is Shavon Coleman who averages 12 points per game.

12. Texas A&M-Texas A&M is 2-4 in conference play but they have dropped their past four games. This past week they lost by 4 to LSU and lost by 7 to Georgia. The Aggies average 64 points on 45% shooting. Their leading scorer is Elston Turner who averages 16 points per game.

13. Auburn-Auburn is 2-4 in conference play and have lost their last 4 games. This past week they have lost to Vanderbilt and Ole Miss. They gave Ole Miss a really good game and they only lost by 2 points. They average 68 points and 14 assist per game. Their leading scorer is Frankie Sullivan who averages 17 points per game.

14. Mississippi State-Mississippi State is 2-4 in conference play and they have lost their last 4 games. This past week they lost to Florida and Arkansas by a combined total of 61 points. They average 62 points and only 10 assist per game. Their leading scorer is Roquez Johnson who averages 11 points per game.

Fantasy Options for Week 15

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 03:08:20 +0000

Amped Fantasy (http://www.ampedfantasy.com) offers fantasy fanatics in opportunity to compete in weekly games for Cash Prizes. They don’t take any fees, and all you need to do is assemble your dream team of fantasy players and whoever scores the most points wins. Even join the Week 15 Freeroll for NO MONEY and WIN INSTANT CASH.

Quarterbacks:

Mathew Stafford, Detroit Lions: The Lions are going against a hapless Arizona
Cardinal’s team that has lost nine straight games. Stafford is second in the league in
passing with 4,006 passing yards and is averaging 308.2 yards a game through the air.
Arizona has not been able to stop anyone and while the Lions have found new ways
to lose every week, however they are still better the Cardinals and Stafford and Calvin
Johnson should have a field day against this weekend in the desert.

Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints: It’s a lock playing Brees week as the Buccaneers’
have been the worst team in the league in regards to pass defense. The Buccaneers’ are
giving up an incredible 323.8 yards per game through the air, and even though Brees isn’t
having his best season he should be able to shred the Bucs passing defense. Brees still has
4028 passing yards and 32 touchdowns.

Matt Schaub, Houston Texans: I don’t see the Texans having two bad weeks in a row and
the Colts are a middle of the pack pass defensive team, so I expect Schaub to look for
Andre Johnson and Arian Foster a lot. The Texans have a chance to clinch the division
this week and now need to stay ahead of the Patriots if they want to hang on to home-
field advantage throughout the playoffs, so there is a lot on the line this weekend.

Running Backs:

Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings: Adrian Peterson is a freak of nature, no one and
mean no one thought he would be playing at such a high level after coming back from
such a horrible injury. Peterson is averaging 123.1 rushing yards a game and is averaging
an insane six yards a carry and expect him to do most of the damage because Christian
Ponder and the Vikings passing game has just done the bare minimum to keep defenses
honest.

Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Martin is going against a Saints defense which is
statically the worst rush defense this season, as they are giving up 152.4 yards a game on
the ground and have given up 13 rushing touchdowns. The Saints are giving up 5.1 yards
a carry and Martin is averaging 4.7 yards a carry and has 1,234 yards on the ground with
10 rushing touchdowns.

Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans: After a slow start to the season Johnson is on pace
1,300-1,400 yards this season and while his touchdown total is down, he is still a fantasy
threat especially playing a run defense like the Jets. Johnson is averaging 4.7 yards a
carry and still has the speed to break a long run and the Jets are giving up 136.5 yards a
game, the fourth worst in the league, only the Saints, Jaguars and Cardinals are worst this
season.

Wide Receivers:

Josh Gordon, Cleveland Browns: While the Redskins have been one of the hottest
teams in the NFL, the one thing they haven’t been able to is figure out how to stop
their opponents passing attack. Gordon has shown a great relationship with quarterback
Brandon Weeden and is the Brown’s biggest receiving threat so expect him to get a lot of
work this week.

Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons: The Giants have been one of the worst pass defenses
this season and have been prone to giving up big plays to wide receivers this season.
Wide receivers are averaging 12.9 yards a reception and have given up 20 receiving
touchdowns, 49 plays of 20-plus yards, 11 of which have gone for 40 or more yards.
Roddy White is a beast, he has 77 receptions for 1,140 yards and Julio Jones is not far
behind with 63 receptions for 997 yards.

Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos: Thomas and Manning have a great chemistry
this season with Thomas having 74 receptions for 1,197 yards and eight receiving
touchdowns. The Ravens defense has not been good this season, ranked in the lower third
of the league in total defense. The Ravens are giving up 375.9 yards a game, the ninth
worst in the league and Manning will be able to take advantage of it this week.

SEC Power Rankings - Post-season

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:01:55 +0000

1. Alabama - Any questions? Alabama eliminates all detractors this season, as they play again for the national championship, but this time having legitimately won their division and the SECCG. It was a war in Atlanta, but at the end the Tide were victorious, and stand at the top yet once more. One hurdle remains - #1 Notre Dame - to their second consecutive National Championship.

2. Georgia - if there were any out there who questioned the legitimacy of this Bulldog team, those questions were likely answered. Georgia lost on Saturday night, but the effort put forth was unquestionably championship-caliber. UGA stood toe to toe with the top program in college football and traded punches to the last second of the contest. For the Bulldogs, coming up four yards short of their ultimate goal was a heartbreaking defeat. But going forward, most Georgia fans feel pretty good at the direction the program Mark Richt is taking the program.. The Bulldogs will look to finish strong to put themselves in good position next pre-season with a victory over #16 Nebraska.

3. Florida - For the Gators, a Sugar Bowl bid will be the reward for their fine season in which they accomplished more than most thought they would in a year where their offense struggled at times. Outstanding defensive play and no frills physical run play were the keys to their 11 win season, and in the end, that's what this conference is about. The Gators probably won't be tested by Louisville in the Sugar Bowl.

4. LSU - Favorites to start the year, the Tigers couldn't quite overcome some of their losses on the defensive side of the ball and achieve the expectations that were set for them. But despite that, still a top 10 team that could beat most teams in the country. Zach Mettenberger has room to improve, which is a plus. Tigers could end the season with positive momentum with a thrashing of Clemson in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.

5. Texas A&M - It seems almost wrong to put the only team that beat Alabama this low, but somebody has to go here. Aggie fans have to wonder how things would have worked out if they had an easier opponent in week 2 of the season than Florida. Still, remarkable inaugural season for this team and for Johnny Manziel, who is probably a lock to win the Heisman, and the Aggies get to showcase him in the Cotton Bowl versus old foe Oklahoma.

6. South Carolina - Another strong season for Spurrier's Gamecocks, just not quite good enough. A lack of consistency hurt this team more than anything this season. There were times they looked like the best team in the conference and times when they looked like a different team altogether. But again, another top 10 SEC team, 5th in their own conference. Gamecocks could have won two other BCS conferences with this team - just not the SEC. I should note that I'd have the Gamecocks another spot up if they still had Lattimore healthy right now. Without him I have them one spot lower.

7. Vanderbilt - Highlighting the "best of the rest" category are the somewhat surprising Vanderbilt Commodores. James Franklin has earned a rightful share of respect for leading Vandy to an 8-4 victory and the Music City Bowl. He says he'll be at Vandy for a long time - but will bigger names come calling if he keeps this up?

8. Ole Miss - I thought Hugh Freeze should have been seriously considered as coach of the year. Most considered Ole Miss a long shot to win more than 2-3 games this year, and none had them winning any conference games. Yet they finish 6-6, with three SEC wins, an Egg Bowl victory and headed to a bowl game! You've got to respect what they did with what most called a "bare cupboard" in Oxford.

9. Mississippi State - For most Bully fans, this season was a bit unsatisfying. They steamed through the early part of their schedule without much trouble but just didn't look impressive very often in the second half. 8-4 isn't a bad season, but dropping four of their last five games isn't going to make anyone in Starkville feel good about next year.

10. Missouri - Not the campaign the Tigers wanted in year one of the SEC, but a learning experience no doubt. Mizzou has already let their OC resign and will no doubt look to build an offense next year that can keep them competitive in 2013.

11. Arkansas - Hog fans are grateful this season is over and that they can now look forward to seeing what new coach Bret Bielema will have in store for them next year.

12. Tennessee - A disappointing year for Tennessee fans who believe that offensively they'd have enough success to possibly get to 8 wins. Instead, a 5-7 overall record is their result and their shopping for a new coach. Exciting times are ahead though, as all new hires bring with them eager anticipation of what's to come.

13. Auburn - It was shocking how far the mighty fell in such a short time, but that's exactly what happened on the Plains. Auburn Tigers, nat'l champs two years ago now winless in the SEC and 3-9 overall. But, they've kicked out Chizik, and re-called Malzahn. Meet the new boss... same as the old boss?

14. Kentucky - You could really interchange these last two. There was nothing good about UK football in 2012, but Cats fans are all looking forward to the new regime under Mark Stoops to see if he can get them competitive in 2013.

Final Thoughts: It's been pretty crazy just how clearly defined the upper and lower tier of the conference was this season. With very few exceptions, the top six has remained isolated from the lower 8 for the majority of the year. I can't remember a time when there was such a drop-off between the top and the bottom, but I can't remember ever a time when six SEC teams finished the season ranked in the BCS top 10, either.

I appreciate you all taking the time to read and comment on these power rankings throughout the season, I know we've had a lot of fun and heated debate with them. I look forward to doing them again next year.

Heisman Finalists

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:08:20 +0000

The Heisman finalists are Manti Te’o, Collin Klein, and Johnny Manziel. The frontrunner to win the award is Texas A&M freshman, Johnny Manziel. All of these players are on teams ranked in the BCS Top 10. The award will be given out Saturday December 8, 2012.

Manti Te’o is a linebacker for number 1 ranked and undefeated Notre Dame. Te’o is one of the best defensive players in the country if not the best and he just won the Butkus award for being the best LB in the country. Manti Te’o had 103 total tackles and 5.5 tackles for loss. Te’o had 1.5 sacks, 7 interceptions, and 1 fumble recovery. He broke up 4 passes and was credited with 4 quarterback hurries. Last game against USC, Te’o had 5 tackles and 1 interception. The Heisman Trophy rarely goes to a defensive player and Te’o would be the first linebacker to win it.

Collin Klein is quarterback for 5th ranked Kansas State. Klein had 2490 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. Klein had a completion percentage of 66.2 percent. He was sacked 13 times and his quarterback rating was 156.1. Klein also rushed for 890 yards and 22 more touchdowns. Last game he had 184 yards and 1 touchdown. He also had 1 interception and a QBR of 176.8. Klein rushed for 103 yards and 2 additional touchdowns. Klein is thought to be third in the voting but he still has an outside shot at winning the award.

Johnny Manziel or Johnny Football is a freshman quarterback for number 9 Texas A&M. Manziel had 3419 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. Manziel’s completion percentage was 68.3. He was sacked 22 times and his QBR was 155.9. Manziel rushed for 1181 yards and 19 touchdowns. Against Missouri Johnny Football went 32 for 44 and racked up 372 yards. He got 3 touchdowns, 1 interception, and a 161.7 quarterback rating. He rushed for 67 yards and 2 touchdowns. Manziel is the frontrunner to win the Heisman. If Manziel wins he will be the first ever freshman to win the award.

I think that Manziel will win the award and will be the first ever freshman to do so. In my opinion Johnny Football has the best stats and he had that signature moment against Alabama. Alabama was the number one team in the country and Manziel led his team to victory on the road. In that game Manziel had 253 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and a QBR of 167.3. He rushed for 92 yards and his longest run was for 32 yards.

Math-U Computer Ranking Week 14

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 19:20:26 +0000

Math-U NCAAFB Top 25 Week 14

Notre Dame (12-0).........................1507.00
Alabama (12-1)..............................1479.22
Florida (11-1).................................1456.71
Ohio State (12-0)...........................1435.62
Oregon (11-1)................................1432.32
Stanford (11-2)..............................1420.69
Kansas State (11-1).......................1404.86
Georgia (11-2)...............................1383.22
LSU (10-2).....................................1382.46
South Carolina (10-2)....................1381.95
Texas A&M (10-2)..........................1380.96
Oklahoma (10-2)............................1376.47
Florida State (11-2)........................1371.95
Northern Illinois (12-1)....................1362.96
Nebraska (10-3).............................1347.64
San Jose State (10-2)....................1347.07
Clemson (10-2)..............................1344.04
Oregon State (9-3).........................1342.89
Boise State (10-2)..........................1342.67
Utah State (10-2)...........................1339.29
Michigan (8-4)................................1334.29
UCLA (9-4).....................................1309.60
Fresno State (9-3).........................1308.69
Kent State (11-2)............................1307.55
Penn State (8-4).............................1299.26

Other SEC teams
37. Vanderbilt (8-4)................1274.46
44. Mississippi State (8-4)......1253.26
60. Ole Miss (6-6)...................1204.52
65. Missouri (5-7)...................1191.42
73. Tennessee (5-7)...............1166.04
81. Arkansas (4-8)..................1124.57
98. Auburn (3-9).....................1069.50
108. Kentucky (2-10)..............1025.16

This weeks projection: (LW 8-2)
Army 7
Navy 27

I plan on doing a bowl preview some time next week. The Navy game will slightly affect Notre Dame's rating. So I will wait for it.

SEC Gambling Lines - Week 14

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:51:04 +0000

Forty Six wins, Forty Five losses and One tie. That is my record going into the last week. This has been a VERY BAD year for your humble prognosticator... Down $350 with the vig. First year I have posted a losing record in, well, ever. But all is not lost, we have championship week to set thing right! This week, we will be picking ALMOST all of the games!

The Bowl picture is a whole lot clearer and will become clearer still after Saturday. The results of this weekend's game will mean a lot to individual schools and conferences insofar as payouts and prestige are concerned. But we won't worry our pretty little heads about that. All we are concerned about is who will cover the point spread and what the smart bets are...

On to the games:

BCS Championship Game (or we could call it the SEC Championship Game - whatever...)

Alabama - 7
Georgia

A She She "Championship" Game

Florida State - 14
Georgia Tech

B1G Championship Game

Nebraska - 3
Wisconsin

Pac 12 Championship Game

UCLA
Stanford - 9

MAC Championship Game

Northern Illinois - 6.5
Kent State

Conference USA Championship Game

Central Florida
Tulsa - 2

De Facto Big East Championship Game

Louisville
Rutgers - 3

Other Games

Oklahoma - 6.5
Texas Christian

Texas
Kansas State - 11.5

"PLEASE LET ME INTO THE ACC" Bowl

Cincinnati - 5
Connecticut

Oklahoma State - 4.5
Baylor

Boise State - 9.5
Nevada

De Facto Sunbelt Conference Championship

Middle Tennessee St.
Arkansas State - 10

Just to change things up, we'll go backwards this week.

Sunbelt Champions? Really? Are we getting a preview of Aubie's coach for next year? Winner goes to the new Orleans Bowl! Look for Gus Malzahn and the Red Wolves to win this game, but take the Blue Raiders and 10.

The Broncos have been a media darling the last half decade. BCS busters, Cinderella, in the discussion for a natty, blah, blah, blah... And Nevada has been their Waterloo. Boise State gets some revenge, but give me the Wolf Pack plus 9.5 and MAYBE an upset.

What a year in the Big 12. The 'Pokes have been decent, but nowhere near as good as last year. And we can all thank the Bears for helping our conference get into the BCS Championship Game. Nice job by Baylor to get bowl eligible, but Cowboys crash the party this weekend.

Next up we have the "PLEASE LET ME INTO THE ACC" Bowl! I would have put money on U Conn getting the invite, but now that the president's have let a non top 100 school in (plus the BC objection to the Huskies), I think that Cincy is the next target if someone else defects or the Big 12 doesn't get them 1st. Bearcats win this one big.

There will be no national championship for the Wildcats, but a BCS bowl vs Oregon awaits if they can get by the Longhorns. Speaking of Texas, do they really suck that bad? They do, K State puts an exclamation point on a damn good season.

The Sooners look to be the big deserving team that will be relegated to a bowl that is normally reserved for mortals. Tough break for them if that happens; and a tough break for the viewers, TV execs & Bowls that pay out big money. Oklahoma makes their case for a better bowl, against the Horny Frogs but will it be enough??

Lots of great games this weekend, and as an added bonus, we get to see who did better with conference expansion - the ACC or B1G! ACC gets another black eye as the Scarlet Knights punch their ticket to either Miami or New Orleans.

Central Florida vs Tulsa - winner gets Ark State (probably) in Memphis!! Rematches TEND to favor whoever lost, and the Knights almost beat the Golden Hurricane on the road, expect them to win this week.

This year the MAC Championship is VERY IMPORTANT. If the Golden Flashes can beat the Huskies, we will see the WORST BCS Bolw lineup ever. NIU SAVES THE DAY as they deflate the hopes of red headed step-children everywhere...

In the Pac 12, the big question is did Jim Mora sandbag last week's game so that he could avoid Donald Duck? Answer, maybe, but it won't matter as the Cardinal prepares to smell the Roses.

Time to talk about the 2nd worst "Championship" game. I guess if teams would quit cheating, we could get some better football... It's been a nice season for Wisconsin, but the Cornhuskers will be playing the Cardinal in Pasadena.

And now the WORST "Championship" game. The Seminoles are pretty good and deflated after a tough loss to Florida. The Yellow Jackets had their heads handed to them in Athens. Could this game be the precursor to the worst BCS bowl game in history? I don't think so. 'Noles win, but give me one of the top offenses in NCAA football and the points as GA Tech covers.

The King of Football steps into the SEC Championship game with a chance to TIE the all time NCAA wins record in a 4 year span. The upstart underdog believes that a win is possible. These teams are very similar and match up well. I really think the game could go either way. Take the Dawgs and the points - we may even see an upset...

Recapping this week's investment advice:

Georgia + 7
Georgia Tech + 14
Nebraska - 3
Stanford - 9
Northern Illinois - 6.5
Central Florida + 2
Rutgers - 3
Oklahoma - 6.5
Kansas State - 11.5
Cincinnati - 5
Oklahoma State - 4.5
Nevada + 9.5
Middle Tennessee St. + 10

Injury/Suspension Report - SEC CG

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 04:18:53 +0000

Alabama Crimson Tide

DB John Fulton is dealing with an irksome toe injury, and as such, is listed as questionable to play in the SEC Championship game. Other than Mr. Fulton, the rest of the Tide's injuries are season-ending and include the following: WR Kenny Bell (leg); RB Jalston Fowler (knee); RB Dee Hart (knee); WR DeAndrew White (knee); DB Jarrick Williams (knee); and finally, WR Chris Black (shoulder). There are no suspensions to report for the Tide.

Georgia Bulldogs

FB Merritt Hall (ankle) and NT Mike Thornton (ankle) both look to be questionable for the battle royale that will be the SEC Championship game. The following UGA Dawgs will not be able to play, as they have sustained season-ending injuries: WR Marlon Brown (knee); LB Chase Vasser (shoulder); DE Abru Jones (ankle); LB Brandon Burrows (hand); and lastly, WR Michael Bennet (knee). T Kolton Houston remains ineligible to play, owing to his use of a banned substance.

Best of luck to both Alabama and Georgia, and may the winner beat the Irish unmercifully in the National Championship Game.

Math-U Computer Ranking Week 13

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 19:06:50 +0000

Math-U NCAA Top 25

Notre Dame (12-0)...........1498.95
Alabama (11-1)................1460.91
Florida (11-1)...................1450.73
Ohio State (12-0).............1433.93
Oregon (11-1)..................1426.56
Stanford (10-2).................1405.76
Kansas State (10-1).........1400.70
Georgia (11-1)..................1396.20
South Carolina (10-2).......1379.71
LSU (10-2)........................1377.19
Nebraska (10-2)................1376.40
Texas A&M (10-2).............1375.30
Oklahoma (9-2).................1374.79
Florida State (10-2)...........1358.36
Northern Illinois (11-1).......1344.52
San Jose State (10-2).......1341.50
Clemson (10-2).................1340.54
Boise State (9-2)...............1340.06
Oregon State (8-3)............1339.94
Utah State (10-2)...............1334.88
Michigan (8-4)...................1332.39
Kent State (11-1)...............1327.72
UCLA (9-3)........................1320.24
Fresno State (9-3).............1307.30
Rutgers (9-2).....................1305.29

Remaining SEC Teams
35. Vanderbilt (8-4)...............1274.63
45. Mississippi State (8-4)......1254.97
60. Ole Miss (6-6)..................1205.42
64. Missouri (5-7)..................1190.66
72. Tennessee (5-7)..............1165.87
82. Arkansas (4-8).................1124.12
99. Auburn (3-9)....................1069.49
108. Kentucky (2-10).............1027.79

Projections for Championship Week and Other Significant Games (LW 7-2)

SEC Championship
Georgia 16
Alabama 23

Big 10 Championship
Wisconsin 10
Nebraska 21

ACC Championship
Georgia Tech 10
Florida State 30

Pac12 Championship (@Stanford)
UCLA 13
Stanford 24

Important BigXII Games (KSU clinches with win or OU loss; OU clinches with win and KSU loss)
Texas 14
Kansas State 28

Oklahoma 26
TCU 16

De facto BigEast Championship (Syracuse and Cincinnati could finish in a tie for first with a Louisville win but will lose all tie breakers to Lousiville making the winner of this game the BigEast Champ no matter what.)
Louisville 13
Rutgers 19

MAC Championship
Northern Illinois 21
Kent State 19

Conference USA Championship (@Tulsa)
UCF 20
Tulsa 21

SEC Power Rankings - 11/25/12

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 17:42:48 +0000

1. Alabama - With their 49-0 trouncing of Auburn, the Tide have proven that they are without a doubt the best team in the nation. It's all but a foregone conclusion that they will go on to beat Notre Dame after dealing with that little team from across the border. Indeed, it doesn't appear likely that the Tide can lose next week. Order the rings. Ring the bell. It's over. Prep the Dr. Pepper aisle at Walmart and clear a space for the crystal.

2. Georgia - Well, it's been a fine season for the Athenians. An 11-1 final record, second consecutive SEC East division crown, and a return trip to the Georgia Dome in store to be the sacrificial lamb for the Crimson Tide. There remains an outside shot that the Bulldogs could be a fly in the ointment for Saban and company, but such fantastical notions are not entertained around here. Georgia's season is effectively already over. Next week is just a courtesy appearance. Right?

3. Florida - After stumbling through most of November looking destined to lose in Tallahassee, the Gators put on a great performance to complete their 11-1 season, primed for a Sugar Bowl appearance. It hasn't been pretty, but the defense as gotten it done all year long and they did it again last night.

4. South Carolina - Despite being without Connor Shaw, and without Marcus Lattimore, the Cocks put a convincing beating on #11 Clemson in Death Valley to cap a season that fell short of their goals but still put an exclamation point on the statement of SEC strength.

5. Texas A&M - Another week, another highlight reel for Johnny Football. After a scare early in the game, Manziel came back out to lead yet another prolific offensive attack against fellow conference newcomer Missouri in a big win to cap an outstanding first season in the SEC.

6. LSU - A surprisingly narrow victory at Arkansas to end the season... of course the Tigers have not won too many games this year convincingly. This is a solid football team but just not dominant enough on any one side of the ball to live up to pre-season expectations. Still, the fact that they can be sixth in the SEC power rankings and top 10 in the national rankings, tells you all you need to know about the SEC as a whole.

7. Vanderbilt - In a continuing trend of making the statement on SEC dominance, the Commodores absolutely obliterated Wake Forest to put an exclamation point on an 8-4 season, respectable for any team, let alone Vanderbilt.

8. Ole Miss - The Rebels have been so close to winning a few big games this year it must drive their fans absolutely mad. But they finally got one that mattered a lot to them in their Egg Bowl victory, earning bowl eligibility in the process.

9. Mississippi State - 8-4 isn't a bad season, but it must feel a little disappointing to MSU fans after the start they got off to this season, winning seven straight and being ranked in the top 15. The most stinging defeat though had to be this last one to rival Ole Miss.

10. Missouri - Not the season that Missouri fans hoped for, but there are better days ahead if the Tigers can take advantage of the SEC for a recruiting boost.

11. Tennessee - Vol fans are probably more excited now than they've been all season, as they look for a new coach.

12. Arkansas - Same applies here

13. Auburn - Maybe here

14. Kentucky - and definitely here

2012 PTR: Year In Review

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:44:35 +0000

For the posters who have at least been at SECtalk since the beginning of the summer, you'll remember that @HobnailedBoots compiled a series of threads over the course of the summer on a weekly basis. These topics focused on a different SEC team each week and allowed members to vote on each team's final W/L record for the 2012 season.

Well, with the anticipation that increased with each passing week of the PTR threads as we clawed closer to kickoff, that excitement has already come and gone. The regular season is now complete.

So, how right accurate were the members at SECtalk? Which teams were the biggest surprises? The biggest flops? Let's take a look.

How I did this:
I took about 20 mins to sort through all the PTR threads and calculated the average predicted win total for each team. Then, I compared that number with the number of actual wins.

Analysis:

Alabama Crimson Tide:
Average predicted wins: 10.7
Actual wins: 11
Breakdown: Alabama was one of the most accurately predicted teams in the SEC, as 56 of 60 voters predicted the Tide within one game of its actual 11-1 record.

Arkansas Razorbacks:
Average predicted wins: 9.1
Actual wins: 4
Breakdown: Arkansas was easily the worst flop of any SEC team in the 2012 season. In fact, out of 56 votes, NOBODY predicted the Hogs to do worse than 6-6, except for one joke 0-12 vote.

Auburn Tigers:
Average predicted wins: 7.3
Actual wins: 3
Breakdown: Auburn is right there with Arkansas in falling incredibly short of season expectations. Out of 79 voters, only 2 predicted the War Eagles to finish as badly as 3-9, like they did.

Florida Gators:
Average predicted wins: 8.1
Actual wins: 11
Breakdown: The Gators were expected to be strong, but they far surpassed SECtalk’s expectations. Florida finished 11-1, but out of their 54 votes, only 2 predicted a double-digit win season!

Georgia Bulldogs:
Average predicted wins: 10.7
Actual wins: 11
Breakdown: It’s true that Georgia caught flack for their schedule over the summer, but to their credit they lived up to expectations. 44 of 54 voters said Georgia would win 9-11 games, so the Dawgs actually did slightly better than what most predicted.

Kentucky Wildcats:
Average predicted wins: 3.5
Actual wins: 2
Breakdown: As hard as it is to believe, Kentucky was even WORSE than expected. 36 of 46 voted the ‘Cats within 3-4 wins, and they only finished with 2. Ugh.

LSU Tigers:
Average predicted wins: 10.6
Actual wins: 10
Breakdown: LSU did almost exactly what they were expected to do by the majority at SECtalk. 34 of 39 voters predicted 10 wins or more, and the Tigers won 10 with the only two losses being in close games.

Mississippi State Bulldogs:
Average predicted wins: 7.7
Actual wins: 8
Breakdown: A sour end to the season with an Egg Bowl beatdown, but the Bullies actually did about what most expected them to do. 47 of 55 voters had State within one game of their actual final record.

Missouri Tigers:
Average predicted wins: 7.1
Actual wins: 5
Breakdown: Over the summer, Missouri was actually expected to be the stronger newcomer into the SEC. But the Show-Me state Tigers suffered a setback. 61 of 68 voters said Mizzou would be bowl-eligible, but alas, Coach Pinkel’s squad will be home for the holidays.

Ole Miss Rebels:
Average predicted wins: 3.7
Actual wins: 6
Breakdown: Rebels going bowling?! Who saw this coming? Apparently, not too many people here at SECtalk. In fact, only 4 of 65 voters had Ole Miss with 6+ wins!

South Carolina Gamecocks:
Average predicted wins: 9.7
Actual wins: 10
Breakdown: Carolina was also one of the most accurately-predicted teams in the SEC. An overwhelming 68 out of 80 majority had the Cocks within one game of their actual record.

Tennessee Volunteers:
Average predicted wins: 6.1
Actual wins: 5
Breakdown: It was uglier on the field than what the numbers would indicate, but Tennessee actually didn’t do a whole lot worse record-wise than what we thought. The Vols had a huge window of opportunity as 64 of 76 voted anywhere from 5-8 wins. Unfortunately for Derek Dooley, his team fell at the very bottom of that window.

Texas A&M Aggies:
Average predicted wins: 6.1
Actual wins: 10
Breakdown: The best surprise of the year in the SEC, by far. If this statistic doesn’t earn Kevin Sumlin the SECtalk Coach of the Year Award (is there one?) then nothing should. Out of 80 voters, only 5 predicted 8+ wins. And the Aggies won 10. Hats off, great season.

Vanderbilt Commodores:
Average predicted wins: 6.3
Actual wins: 8

Breakdown: Vanderbilt is one of those teams that quietly did significantly better than what most anticipated. James Franklin built off his first-season success by getting to 8 wins, a feat that only 7 of 65 voters saw happening.
__________________________________________________________________

Statistical summary:

Here’s a final statistical summary to highlight the differential in average predicted wins and actual wins. Think of it the same as turnover margin. Green indicates a season that surpassed expectations (positive), while red indicates a team that fell below expectations (negative).

Texas A&M + 3.9
Florida + 2.9
Ole Miss + 2.3
Vanderbilt + 1.7
Alabama + 0.3
Georgia + 0.3
Mississippi State + 0.3
South Carolina + 0.3
----
LSU –0.6
Tennessee –1.1
Kentucky –1.5
Missouri –2.1
Auburn –4.3
Arkansas –5.1

______________________________________________________________________

Awards:

SECtalk.Com's Best Surprise of 2012 Award goes to..... The Texas A&M Aggies!!!
SECtalk.Com's Biggest Flop of 2012 Award goes to...... The Arkansas Razorbacks

SEC Gambling Lines - Week 13

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 22:46:00 +0000

We are down to 2 weeks left in the regular season and the bowl games. My record is a pathetic 38-39-1. DOWN $490 with Christmas coming up and a wife that wants to buy our 4 kids EVERYTHING.

Truth is, this is the most fun week of the year. I had been doing pretty good until 3 weeks ago and 2 bad weeks - WHAM! last week's 8-5 record helped to get the train back on the tracks.

So, on to rivalry week and some of the most fun games of the year!

God's Conference:

LSU - 12
Arkansas

Vanderbilt - 11.5
Wake Forest

Georgia Tech
Georgia - 14

Kentucky
Tennessee - 13

Auburn
Alabama - 32.5

Mississippi State
Mississippi - 1.5

Missouri
Texas AM - 22

Florida
Florida State - 7.5

South Carolina
Clemson - 4

National Games:

Michigan
Ohio State - 4

Texas Tech
Baylor - 3

Stanford - 2
UCLA

Oregon - 7
Oregon State

Notre Dame - 5.5
Southern Cal

We start with the Bayou Bengals vs the Razorbacks. John L Smith THINKS he's still auditioning for a job. That's OK, earlier in the year he wasn't quite sure whether or not he was coaching in Alabama... Tigers put this one to bed early.

The Commodores are hoping to move up in the conference bowl selection pecking order. the Demon Deacons are fighting for bowl eligibility. The game is in North Carolina and Wake has a halfway decent team. Vandy wins, but the Deacons keep this one interesting and close.

Nobody thought that Mark Richt would have Georgia back in the BCS title discussion after the pounding his Dawgs took in Columbia SC, but here they are. More than a few experts have Georgia on "upset alert" against a Yellow Jacket squad that has improved dramatically since the beginning of the year. Those experts must not be paying attention. Dawgs hunker down in preparation for the SECCG.

Jeff Schultz of the AJC is calling this week's UT vs UK game the "Help Wanted Bowl". It was nice for Joker to get carried off the field last week since the Vols will record their first conference win.

What do people on the plains have to be thankful for this year? Believe it or not, a NCAA investigation that may well save the school millions in buyout money! Oh yeah, there's a football game this weekend for the War Tiggers. Tide covers whether they are thinking about Georgia or not.

The Egg bowl is probably the most interesting match-up in the SEC this week. The Bulldogs have had a pretty good year and the Rebels have been everybody's "surprise team". Ole Miss has been playing better lately and has looked more impressive against top notch competition, so I look for Colonel Reb to become bowl eligible this week.

Speaking of bowl eligibility... Mizzou was supposed to compete this year, maybe even be the 2nd or 3rd best team in the SEC East and aTm was sure to struggle and regret their move. It didn't quite work out that way. Twenty two is a lot of points, but Aggie is auditioning for a Sugar Bowl invite and is one of the county's hottest teams.

Did I say that the Egg Bowl was this week's most interesting game? What was I thinking? Despite looking very beatable and stagnant on offense, the Florida gators are still in the discussion for the BCS title! Seminoles likely win, but I expect this game to be very close and down to the wire. Gators cover and could pull off the upset.

After the Gamecocks took UGA to school, everyone had them penciled in as a force to be reckoned with. Then they imploded. Injuries to key players and a few losses, especially a beat down like they got in the Swamp, can change a team's dynamic. Steve Spurrier WILL be the winningest coach in SC history, but he'll have to wait for a bowl game as the Tigers stop a 3 year losing streak with a strong victory.

Why add the MI vs OSU game? Two reasons, outside of Dixieland, this is considered the biggest rivalry game of them all AND there is a remote possibility that the Buckeyes could get the AP share of a split National Championship. For that to happen, Notre Dame would have to lose this weekend and whomever plays the SEC champion in Miami would have to win. Doesn't matter. Wolverines win, but take the gift points.

Why add the Texas Tech vs Baylor game? Two reasons, I feel all warm and fuzzy about the Bears right now AND there is a remote possibility that Tommy Tubberville could be at the helm of a major SEC school next year. For that to happen is not all that hard to envision... Thank you Bears, enjoy your beatdown after a big win as the Red Raiders ride into the sunset and take the free 3 points.

Stanford vs UCLA is a big game, but some folks are asking if the Bruins even WANT to win. The reward for a win? A date with Donald Duck in the PAC 12 championship. Lose and get a rematch of this week. UCLA started off as favorite but the money has come in strong on the Cardinal. Both teams are coming off emotional wins. Stanford needs it more and I expect them to win.

Donald has to be pretty let down right about now. That's not a good place to be when you are stepping into rivalry week against a very strong and very motivated in state school and going to their house. The Ducks can still win the PAC 12 and COULD still play for it all. Expect Donald to win, but Beavers keep it close.

Last game - Notre Dame vs USC. The Trojans have laid a major egg this year and the Irish have found the old magic! Redshirt freshman quarterback Max Wittek has GUARANTEED a win against the Irish. Nice to be confident, but he eats his words and probably feels this game for a week as Notre Dame sets the stage for a highly rated BCS championship game.

A recap of this week's investment advice:

LSU - 12
Wake Forest + 11.5
Georgia - 14
Tennessee - 13
Alabama - 32.5
Mississippi - 1.5
Texas AM - 22
Florida + 7.5
Clemson - 4
Michigan + 4
Texas Tech + 3
Stanford - 2
Oregon State + 7
Notre Dame - 5.5

Expansion - A Story That Won't Die

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 15:01:53 +0000

It really is the story that won't die. The rumors and moves USUALLY all come crashing down AFTER the season is over and a football champion is crowned. But Jim Delaney and the Bi X (XIV?) just couldn't wait.

Did the Big X decide to grab Maryland and Rutgers to upstage the BCS National Championship since his conference is once again irrelevant in the discussion? Was the move made to counter Notre Dame's quasi alliance with the ACC? Or did his television partners cut a deal with cable networks to force a nickle per household increase on every subscriber up and down the eastern seaboard? Rumors are running rampant...

I was going to leave this story alone until after the SEC Championship game, but the news this morning is just too compelling to pass on. Just a few short days after Duke's coach Krzyzewski expressed concern over the ACC's stability, Virginia Tech's AD Jim Weaver has essentially reached out to the Southeastern Conference!

Weaver's comments have definately blown Twitter up:

“I really haven’t thought about (whether the SEC would contact Tech) because the discussion (thanks to Maryland’s move) has just come about three or four days ago. I’d like to defer my comment for right now, but there may potentially be some interest.”

There are not too many schools out there that can cause Mike Slive to stop what he is doing and change course. Texas Agriculture and Military was one of them, and make no miskake, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is another. If VA Tech is truly interested in joining, the SEC WILL find a way to make it happen.

This creates another problem. Who will be school number 16? Odds are, it will be a school in North Carolina. Is this the death knell for the ACC? It sure seems that way. If the Hokies have one foot out the door, can Florida State and Clemson be far behind?

Truth is, the Big 12 was written off for dead after CO, NE, MO & aTm bolted, but within less than a year they have re-established themselves as one of the stable "power conferences". Can the Atlantic Coast Conference pull off a similar feat? The president's and ad's of ACC schools must all be very nervous right now. There are many proud and storied athletic programs in that conference.

Will the power conferences all go to 20 schools and create an 80 school universe? Will they stop at 16? Right now, nobody really knows. Fasten your seatbelts, the expansion carousel is sure to be a fast and furious ride this offseason...

Injury/Suspension Report - Week 13

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 08:00:29 +0000

Alabama Crimson Tide

The Tide enter the Iron Bowl fairly banged up. RB T.J. Yeldon (foot) will be probable for the Iron Bowl as will RB Eddy Lacey (hand). WR Kevin Norwood is questionable for the game with an undisclosed injury. DB John Fulton (toe) also looks to be questionable. Lost for the year are the following: RB Jalston Fowler (knee), RB Dee Hart (knee), WR DeAndrew White (knee), DB Jarrick Williams (knee), and finally, WR Chris Black (shoulder). There are no suspensions to report for the Tide.

Arkansas Razorbacks

The Razorbacks take on the LSU Tigers this weekend. They too are also pretty well banged up and have a couple of suspensions to deal with. S Rohan Gaines (head) is probable for the game. TE Chris Gragg (knee) is doubtful to play. Lost for the season are: LB Alonzo Highsmith (foot), DE Tenarious Wright (shoulder), RB Cody Walker (leg), and finally, FB Kiero (foot). Suspended are: QB Brandon Mitchell (team rules) and LB Terrell Williams (DWI).

Auburn Tigers

The Tigers head into the Iron Bowl being quite healthy. DB Enrique Florence is questionable for the Iron Bowl with an undisclosed injury. OL Avery Young (undisclosed) and TE Phillip Luztenkirchen (hip) remain lost for the season with their respective injuries. There are no suspensions to report for the Tigers.

Florida Gators

With an out-of-conference foe looming, in Florida State, the Gators march into this game banged up pretty well, but with some good news. QB Jeff Driskell (ankle) is probable for the game. Questionable are: OL Ian Silberman (shoulder), DB De'Ante Saunders (knee), RB Mack Brown (undisclosed), WR Andre Debose (leg), and DL Leon Orr (illness). Lost for the year are: WR Michael McNeeley (foot), DE Robert Powell (knee), WR Soloman Patton (arm), DB Cody Riggs (foot), LS Drew Farris (collarbone), and OL Matt Patchan (pectoral). There are no suspensions to report for the Gators.

Georgia Bulldogs

The UGA Dawgs take on the Ramblin Wreck from Georgia Tech this weekend, a series that UGA has dominated as of late. S Baccario Rambo (shin) is probable to play in the game. FB Merritt Hall (ankle) and G Chris Burnette (shoulder) are questionable. WR Marlon Brown (knee), LB Chase Vasser (shoulder), DE Abry Jones (ankle), LB Sterling Bailey (thumb), LB Brandon Burrows (hand), and WR Michael Bennett (knee) are all lost for the season. T Kolton Houston remains ineligible to play for having used a banned substance.

Kentucky Wildcats

UK takes on Tennessee this weekend. WR E.J. Fields (ribs) and LB Jabari Johnson (hamstring) are both questionable for the game. Lost for the year are the following Wildcats: S Ashley Lowery (finger), LB Pancho Thomas (wrist), S Dakotah Taylor (knee), QB Maxwell Smith (ankle), ATH CoShik Williams (hip), and ATH Josh Clemons (knee). TE Anthoney Kendrick and CB Marcus Caffey are both academically ineligible to play.

LSU Tigers

LSU takes on Arkansas this weekend. The Tigers remain banged up, as they have for most of the year. LB Kwon Alexander (ankle) is probable to play this weekend. LB Luke Muncie (stomach virus) is doubtful to play. Lost for the year with injury are the following Tigers: RB Alfred Blue (knee), DE Jordan Allen (knee), WR Travin Dural (knee), and T Chris Faulk (knee). Out indefinitely with injury are both G Josh Willieford (concussion) and T Alex Hurst (personal). Suspended for being academically ineligible are the following Tigers: TE Tyler Edwards, LB D.J. Welter, OL Evan Washington, and LB Tahj Jones.

Ole Miss Rebels

The Rebels have taken on several new injuries in recent games. Heading into the Egg Bowl, there are six injuries to note. DE Carlos Thompson (shoulder), RB Charlie Scott (undisclosed), DB Wesley Pendleton (ankle), and LB Aaron Garbutt (flu) are all questionable to play against Mississippi State. WR Collins Moore (shoulder) and LB D.T. Shackleford (knee) remain lost for the year. There are no injuries to report for the Rebels.

Mississippi State Bulldogs

Mississippi State heads to Oxford to take on Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl this weekend, and have one injury to note; LB Ferlando Bohanna (groin) looks to be probable to play against the Rebels.

Missouri Tigers

The Tigers from Missouri take on Texas A&M this weekend at College Station. All injuries to report for Missouri are either out indefinitely or lost for the year, with no suspensions to report. OL Jack Meiners (knee) and WR Wesley Leftwich (foot) are both out indefinitely with their injuries. Lost for the year are OL Justin Britt (knee), OL Travis Ruth (tricep), OL Taylor Chappell (knee) and finally, RB Henry Josey (knee).

South Carolina Gamecocks

The Gamecocks take on Clemons this weekend. WR Bruce Ellington (hand) and QB Connor Shaw (foot) are both probable to play against the Tigers of Clemson. Questionable are WR DeAngelo Smith (concussion), DE Jadeveon Clowney (foot), and S Sharrod Golightly (hamstring). Those who are out indefinitely include RB Brandon Wilds (ankle) and RB Shon Carson (wrist). Lost for the year with injuries are the following: RB Marcus Lattimore (leg/knee) and T Mike Matulis (shoulder). There are no suspensions to report for the Gamecocks.

Tennessee Volunteers

The Vols come off a rough week last week, losing to Vanderbilt and losing former HC Derek Dooley. They now take on the Kentucky Wildcats in a game that could decide if UT goes winless in SEC play for the first time since FDR or not. DL Treverriss Saulsberry (knee) is questionable to play. Lost for the year with injuries are LB Curt Maggitt (knee), DB Brian Rudolph (knee) and PK George Bullock (leg). Suspended are DB Deion Bonner and DL Omari Phillips for criticizing former Vols HC Derek Dooley on Facebook.

Texas A&M Aggies

The Aggies take on Missouri this weekend, with little to report. OL Shep Klinke (knee) is lost for the year with injury, while RB Christine Michael will be suspended for throwing a punch last weekend, and RB Brandon Williams having been declared ineligible to play before the season started.

Vanderbilt Commodores

The Commodores take on Wake Forest this weekend, looking to improve their bowl status. Both PK Carey Spear (head) and WR Jaquise Kirk (ankle) are questionable to play. C Spencer Pulley is dealing with an undisclosed injury and is out indefinitely, while OL Carey McCoy (back) is lost for the year.