FINALLY.
Finally we get into the meat of the season. There are some big games with serious championship implications this week. Nobody knows what’s about to unfold.
But I’m going to pretend to.
Disclaimer: If you happen to bet based on my picks against the spread and win, you’re welcome. If you lose, tough luck. That’s gambling folks. Here we go!
Georgia Tech -3 vs. Notre Dame
An injured Notre Dame is limping into this game against the high-octane offense of the Yellow Jackets. While they’re not likely to put up 60+ this week, Tech is going to score points. There’s going to be a lot of pressure on the Irish offense to answer the bell with a new quarterback. Yellow Jackets win by 7 minimum.
Auburn +7 vs. LSU
Run. Heavy. That’s what you’re getting this week. Auburn will be looking to prove that last week was a fluke, while LSU will be looking to notch another conference win. LSU struggled last week with Mississippi State, but keep in mind, that was their season opener. Some of the rust will be shaken off by Saturday. Neither team has full confidence in their starting quarterback, and both will rely on defense to keep the game close. I think LSU wins, but by 3. Take the points.
BYU +17 vs. UCLA
Both are bringing freshmen quarterbacks to the Rose Bowl this weekend, and both have more than earned their spot. BYU is looking to continue the magic into week 3 against a very talented UCLA Bruin squad. Rosen and company will be looking to continue their momentum and the young quarterback’s Heisman campaign. While UCLA should get the win this weekend, seventeen points is too many to cover. BYU will be the first defense that really tests Rosen, so don’t expect him to be as dominant as his previous two games.
Ridiculous Pick of the Week: Tulsa +31 at Oklahoma
I know it sounds crazy. That is a ton of points to cover, but hear me out. Wouldn’t it be just like Bob Stoops to have a double OT win at Tennessee, then come out flat against Tulsa? It wouldn’t surprise me to have a huge let down game and struggle against the mighty Golden Hurricane. I’m not saying they’ll lose, but I can see a 20 point margin of victory. Bonus prop bet? After the game, Eric Striker tells the world he “disrespects the American Athletic Conference” and spits on a child in a Tulsa shirt. 2-1 odds at best.
Upset Alert: Ole Miss +7 at Alabama
I don’t really consider this an upset, but I think Ole Miss wins clean at Bryant-Denny on Saturday night. Chad Kelly is absolutely rolling right now and will be facing three true freshmen in the Tide secondary. The air attack is coming and everyone knows it. Can Alabama stop it? I don’t think so. Derrick Henry will need to have another good night to keep Chad Kelly off of the field. Expect Ole Miss to stack the box and force the Tide to beat them with Jake Coker. This match-up really favors the Rebels this year. The +7 is just a bonus.
You’re welcome, America.
Bill Griffin is the lead SEC contributor for the SoBros Network, and serves as our resident expert on the human anatomy, fixin’ stuff, and tomatoes. Follow him on Twitter, @Winter_Griffin
Follow us on Twitter: @SoBrosNetwork
(Credit image to AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)