Thursday, October 16th
AIR FORCE (6-1 SU/3-3 ATS) at COLORADO STATE (4-3 SU/3-3 ATS)
The Falcons are off a 24-7 home win and cover over UNLV last week as -7 point chalks. QB Chance Harridge completed 5-of-10 passes for 63 yards and ran for 89 yards and two scores to lead Air Force to the win. The Falcons did not turn the ball over in the game and won the time of possession battle by over seven minutes (33:39 - 26:21) and also held edges in total "O" (324-250) and rushing yards (261-166). Colorado State absolutely annihilated BYU last week in a 58-13 romper as -1½ point road chalks. QB Bradlee Van Pelt Van Pelt completed 8-of-11 passes for 194 yards and three TD's and also carried the ball 12 times for 51 yards, while RB Marcus Houston had 84 yards and three touchdown runs on 18 carries for Colorado State, which has won two straight games. Eric Hill had three receptions for 97 yards and two touchdowns in the win for the Rams, who dominated the game with edges in total "O" (446-269), first downs (20-14) and time of possession (32:27 to 27:33). Colorado State forced four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions) and also outgained BYU in return yards 136-19. Colorado State seems to have snapped out of their early season slump which saw them suffer home losses to Miami-Ohio (lost 41-21 as -6 point favs) and to Utah (lost 28-21 as -6½ point chalks). Since then they have beaten Fresno State at home 34-10 as -6 point favorites in addition to last week's slaughter of BYU. The Rams offense is also clicking as of late (rank 17th in land with 456 ypg average). Air Force is just 7-11 ATS the last 18 meetings with the Rams, but come in 7-4 ATS the week before a bye. Colorado State also has a bye next week and is 13-5 ATS the week before a break. This is a revenger for the Falcons, who lost at home to Colorado State 31-12 last year as +1½ point underdogs. Air Force is 19-4 ATS as a dog of +2½ or more points, but Colorado State has done well against the Falcons (7-3 ATS last ten meetings) and are also 8-2 ATS in their second to last home game of the season. Colorado State is the choice here.
SELECTION: COLORADO STATE -5
Saturday, October 18th
LSU (5-1 SU/4-1 ATS) at SOUTH CAROLINA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
10th-ranked LSU was stunned at home last week in a 19-7 loss to Florida as -10 point favorites. QB Matt Mauck completed 19-of-33 passes for 231 yards, but also threw two costly interceptions in the loss. It was the first loss of the season for the Tigers, who have been in the top-10 for three straight weeks. LSU was outgained in total "O" 310-287 and could only muster 56 yards on the ground. South Carolina comes in off a 27-21 home win last week over Kentucky, but failed to cover as -8 point chalks. QB Dondrial Pinkins completed 17-of-29 passes for 184 yards, WR Syvelle Newton caught three passes for 68 yards and RB Demetris Summers had 66 rushing yards on 16 carries. The Gamecocks outgained Kentucky in total "O" 339-327 and had edges in first downs (20-18), time of possession (33:26 to 26:34) and return yards (102-3). South Carolina has not fared well as an SEC home underdog, going just 4-12 ATS the last 16 times that has happened. LSU won last year's meeting 38-14 as -8 point home favorites. The Gamecocks are 4-0 at home this season and 2-1 as a 'dog in 2003. Schedule wise, SC has played a tougher schedule, facing the likes of Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee and Kentucky. LSU's schedule has included La-Monroe, Arizona, Western Illinois, Mississippi State, Georgia and Florida. SC is on a 3-1 ATS run and are catching LSU coming off of hated Florida. LSU comes in 2-8-1 ATS the week after playing Florida, so this seems like a good spot for South Carolina. Both teams have solid defenses (LSU ranks 6th - allowing 265 ypg, South Carolina ranks 8th - allowing 273 ypg). Take the points.
SELECTION: SOUTH CAROLINA +4½
MISSISSIPPI STATE (2-4 SU/2-4 ATS) at AUBURN (4-2 SU/3-2 ATS)
Mississippi State won for the second consecutive week with a 35-27 home win over Memphis as -3 point favorites. QB Kevin Fant completed 16-of-34 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns, while RB Jerious Norwood led the ground attack with 85 yards on 22 carries. The Bulldogs won despite having deficits in total "O" (568-381) and first downs (29-18). 25th-ranked Auburn comes in off an impressive 10-3 win at 7th-ranked Arkansas last week as +4 point road underdogs. Carnell "Cadillac" Williams ran for 150 yards and a touchdown and QB Jason Campbell threw for 118 yards on 10-of-18 passing for Auburn, which has won four in a row after dropping its first two games of the season. For the game, the Tigers matched yardage with the Hogs with 278 total yards, while allowing Arkansas 278 yards as well. The SU winner in this series is 10-3 ATS the last 13 meetings and the 'dog is 5-2 ATS between these two squads when they play at Auburn. Last year, Auburn won 42-14 as -3 point road favorites. Mississippi State is on a current 4-12 ATS run and 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road affairs. Auburn counters with an 11-5 ATS run and are 8-2 ATS in their last ten SEC games. Mississippi State is also coming off three straight home affairs and the last formidable foe they faced resulted in a 41-6 home loss to LSU. Expect similar results in this one as Auburn is finally starting to live up to their preseason hype. Their two early losses in the season should have the Tigers totally focused in this one, who should have no problem moving the ball against Miss State's 113th-ranked "D" (allowing 474 ypg). Lay the points.
SELECTION: AUBURN -21
USC (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at NOTRE DAME (2-3 SU/1-4 ATS)
The 4th-ranked Trojans had little trouble with Stanford last week in a 44-21 home win and cover (-21). QB Matt Leinart completed 18-of-27 passes for 260 yards, including three first-half touchdowns to Mike Williams, who caught seven passes for 129 yards for the Trojans. USC who won their second straight game, extended their home winning streak to 12 games and became the seventh I-A school to notch 700 victories. LenDale White ran for 93 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries and Ryan Killeen kicked three field goals for USC, who outgained Stanford in total "O" (493-292) and in rushing yards (220-86). The Trojans also forced four turnovers in the game (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions). Notre Dame looked like a different team last week in a 20-14 win at 15th-ranked Pitt as +8 point underdogs. RB Julius Jones rushed for a school-record 262 yards and two touchdowns in the win, but QB Brady Quinn connected on just 5-of-17 passes for 33 yards and an interception for the Fighting Irish, who beat the Panthers for the 11th time in the last 12 meetings. Notre Dame dominated the game with edges in total "O" (385-175), first downs (14-9), rushing yards (352-8) and time of possession (36:46 to 23:14). USC is only 1-9 SU in their last 10 visits to South Bend, but come in 5-2 ATS the last seven trips to Notre Dame. The Trojans are on a current 12-5 ATS run dating back to last season and beat the Irish last year 44-13 as -11 point home chalks. In that game, the Trojans had a 610-109 edge in total "O". USC is 13-5 in their last 18 road games and 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games. Notre Dame is just 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games dating back to last year. Yes, Notre Dame is 11-2 ATS as a home dog and 9-2 ATS versus USC as a pick'em or a 'dog, but the fact remains that their offense still ranks as paltry 104th in the nation (297 ypg). Washington State moved the ball at will against the Irish in the season opener and expect USC to do the same. Lay the points.
SELECTION: USC -8
NAVY (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS) at RICE (1-4 SU/2-2-1 ATS)
Navy continued to roll last week as they beat Vandy 37-27 as +4½ point road underdogs. QB Craig Candeto racked up 160 yards through the air and 69 yards on the ground, threw for two scores and ran for two more and RB Kyle Eckel led the team with 115 rushing yards on 20 attempts for the Middies, who had edges in total "O" (502-373), first downs (29-22), rushing yards (342-146) and time of possession (36:53 to 23:07). Rice had a bye last week after beating San Jose State 28-24 as -4 point home chalks two weeks ago. QB Greg Henderson completed 10-of-13 passes for 110 yards, with a TD and an interception and also led the squad in rushing with 111 yards on 17 carries and a TD in the first win of the year for the Owls. RB Robbie Beck also added 85 yards on 19 carries for Rice, who was outgained in total "O" 412-407. Navy has the nations number-one rushing "O", averaging 303 ypg. In contrast, the Owls have a sieve rushing defense, as they rank 106th in the land, allowing 201 ypg on the ground to go along with their 95th-rated offense (321 ypg) and rank 113th in the nation in points allowed per game (37.6). Navy is 1-4 SU, but 4-0-1 ATS the last five meetings with the Owls and come in 15-5 ATS in their last 20 games played on artificial turf. In addition, the Middies are 4-1 ATS in their last five road games. Rice has not done well when facing Service Academies, going just 2-8 ATS when facing either Navy, Army or Air Force. This also a revenger for Navy, who lost 17-10 last year as +7 point home underdogs. Simply cannot trust Rice in this spot as they have already been stung for 40 or more points three times this season. Navy is the choice here.
SELECTION: NAVY -3
WASHINGTON (3-3 SU/1-4-1 ATS) at OREGON STATE (5-1 SU/2-3 ATS)
Washington was upset at home last week in a 28-17 loss to Nevada as -18 point favorites. RB Rich Alexis paced the Huskies in defeat with 120 rushing yards and a touchdown on 30 carries. QB Cody Pickett had a rough day, completing 19-of-37 passes for 337 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. Washington outgained Nevada in total "O" 389-381, but could not over come 5 turnovers. 21st-ranked Oregon State had a bye last week after beating California 35-21 two weeks ago as +1½ point road underdogs. QB Derek Anderson completed 18-of-27 passes for 224 yards and two TD's and RB Steven Jackson pounded the Golden Bears defense for the second straight year, rushing for 227 yards and two touchdowns on 35 attempts in the win for the Beavers. Last season, Jackson burned the Golden Bears for 239 yards on the ground. Oregon State dominated the game with edges in total "O" (493-237) and had edges in first downs (24-19) and passing yards (224-52). The only drawback for the Beavers was the fact they committed 13 penalties for 151 yards. The visitor is 10-4 ATS the last 14 meetings between these two teams. Oregon State has fared well week after a bye, going 9-2 ATS. The Beavers are also a very impressive 15-2 as a home favorites of less than -17½ points, while the Huskies counter with a 4-10-1 ATS run their last 15 games as well as 8-18 ATS as a Pac Ten traveler. Oregon State's Jackson currently ranks 2nd in the nation in rushing (146 ypg average) and should control the tempo of this game. Something is obviously wrong with Washington as they have dropped three straight ATS, including losses to UCLA (46-16) as well as last weeks shocking home loss to Nevada. Last year, Washington won 41-29 as +6 point home dogs despite a 420-199 deficit in total "O". Oregon State revenge prevails in this one.
SELECTION: OREGON STATE -10
OTHER GAMES OF INTEREST
Thursday, October 16th
CLEMSON (4-2 SU/3-5 ATS) at NC STATE (4-3 SU/2-4 ATS)
Clemson is off a thrilling 30-27 OT win at home over Virginia as +4½ point underdogs. QB Charlie Whitehurst completed 27-of-44 passes for 265 yards with two touchdowns and one interception and also ran for a score in the win. Kevin Youngblood finished with nine catches for 87 yards and RB Yusef Kelly rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown on 25 attempts for the Tigers, who outgained the Cavaliers 272-89 in the first half and carried the 10-point advantage to the locker room. Overall, Clemson outgained Virginia in total "O" 488-324 and had edges in first downs (29-17) and time of possession (34:11 to 25:49). NC State comes in off a tough 31-24 home win over Connecticut last week as -14½ point chalks. QB Philip Rivers threw for 234 yards with two touchdowns and also threw his first interception in 124 passes. Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay scored two defensive touchdowns, including a 56-yard interception return for a score with five seconds remaining to seal the win for the Wolfpack, who were outgained in total "O" 452-323. Clemson is 8-15 ATS the last 23 meetings with NC State, including 1-4 ATS the last five meetings. NC State comes into this one 4-9 ATS in the second game of back-to back home games and the visitor in this series is 5-1 ATS the last six meetings. Clemson lost last years meeting 38-6 as +2 point home underdogs.
ADDED GAME
NEW MEXICO STATE (1-5 SU/2-3 ATS) at UL-LAFAYETTE (0-7 SU3-3-1 ATS)
New Mexico State dropped a 35-18 decision at Middle Tennessee State last week as +3 point underdogs. The Aggies were led by Tony Joseph, who carried the ball 19 times for 115 yards. Paul Dombrowski completed 6-of-19 passes for 84 yards and was intercepted three times, while also scoring a rushing touchdown. Buck Pierce was a big improvement in replacement of Dombrowski, as he connected on 12- of-13 pass attempts for 123 yards to go along with a rushing touchdown. New Mexico State lost despite holding huge edges in total "O" (525-293), first downs (28-9) and time of possession (35:11 to 24:49). UL-Lafayette is coming off a 45-42 loss to UL-Monroe last week as -3 point home favorites. QB Erik Rekieta completed 33-of-54 passes for 474 yards and four touchdowns for UL-Lafayette, who fell to 0-7 on the season. WR Fred Stamps had a good game, catching eight passes for 198 yards and one score. It was an offensive shootout as Lafayette posted 524 yards of total "O", but their "D" allowed Monroe 537 yards of offense in the loss. New Mexico State is 2-1 SU but 0-3 ATS the last three meetings with Lafayette, including a 31-28 home win last season as -12 point chalks. The last two meetings have been decided by a combined 6 points.
Friday, October 17th
TULANE (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at LOUISVILLE (5-1 SU/2-4 ATS)
Tulane dropped a 45-42 home decision to Houston last week as +1½ point underdogs. QB J.P. Losman completed 25-of-34 passes for 264 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception. He also rushed for two touchdowns in the loss for the Green Wave, who were outgained in total "O" 539-380 and had deficits in first downs (34-25) and time of possession (42:57 to 17:03). Louisville is off a 34-10 non-cover (-31½) home win over Army last week. QB Stefan LeFors completed 19-of-28 passes for 406 yards and an interception and WR J.R. Russell had six receptions for 153 yards. The Cardinals outgained the Knights, 619-339 in total yards, including 208-97 on the ground. Tulane is just 2-7 SU and 3-6 ATS the last nine meetings with Louisville, but are 10-6 ATS in their last 16 games played on natural grass. Tulane also comes in on a 10-5-1 ATS run their last 16 games. The home team is only 3-6 ATS the last 9 meetings between these two teams. The Cards won the last meeting in 2001, a 52-7 romper as -11½ point road favorites.
Saturday, October 18th
BOSTON COLLEGE (4-2 SU/4-2 ATS) at SYRACUSE (3-2 SU/2-3 ATS)
Boston College beat Temple last week in a 38-13 road win as -9 point favorites. QB Quinton Porter completed 18-of-24 passes for 308 yards and three touchdowns, while RB Derrick Knight led the Eagles' ground attack with 158 yards on 21 carries. BC dominated the game with edges in total "O" (641-276), first downs (25-14) and rushing yards (309-83). Syracuse was pounded at Virginia Tech last week in a 51-7 loss as +17½ point road 'dogs. RB Walter Reyes, who came into the game averaging a nation's best 170.25 rushing yards per game, ended with just 40 yards on the ground and QB R.J. Anderson didn't fare much better through the air, completing just 8-of-23 passes for 91 yards. The Orangemen never got going offensively, posting just six first downs and 172 total yards in the contest, while allowing Tech 449 yards of total "O" as well as 155 return yards. BC comes in 9-3 ATS the week before playing Notre Dame and the favorite in this series is 16-3 ATS the last 19 meetings. Syracuse is 14-8 ATS the last 22 meetings with BC, but 1-3 ATS the last four years, including a 41-20 loss last year as +7 point road dogs.
PITTSBURGH (3-2 SU/2-3 ATS) at RUTGERS (4-1 SU/6-0 ATS)
Previously 16th-ranked Pittsburgh lost at home last week to Notre Dame in a 20-14 setback as -8 point favorites. QB Rod Rutherford had rough day for the Panthers, completing 12-of-30 passes for 167 yards with two touchdowns and getting sacked nine times. His two TD passes went to Heisman candidate Larry Fitzgerald, who caught five balls for 79 yards. It was a poor display for Pitt, who had deficits in total "O" (385-175), first downs (14-9), rushing yards (352-8) and time of possession (36:46 to 23:14). Rutgers is off a 34-19 loss at West Virginia last week, but covered as +18 point road dogs. RB Justise Hairston paced the Knights in defeat with 115 rushing yards and a score on 27 attempts, while QB Ryan Hart completed 17-of-28 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, but he was also intercepted twice. Rutgers was outgained in total "O" 441-292 and had a 254-114 deficit in rushing yards. Pittsburgh is just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 Big East Conference openers, but the visitor in this series is 5-0 ATS the last five meetings. Pitt won last years meeting 23-3, but failed to cover as -26½ point home chalks. Rutgers has done well in homecoming games, logging a 6-1 spread mark the last seven years and note Rutgers' 6-0 ATS mark this season.
ILLINOIS (1-6 SU/1-5 ATS) at MICHIGAN (5-2 SU/3-3-1 ATS)
Illinois travels to Michigan this week after getting pounded at home in a 4914 loss to Michigan State as +3½ point dogs. QB Jon Beutjer completed 19-of-27 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown, but was intercepted twice. Mark Kornfeld caught five passes for 66 yards and a score for the Fighting Illini, who have lost five straight and were outgained in total "O" 419-371. Illinois had a time of possession edge of 35:09 to 24:51, but turned the ball over three times (1 fumble, 2 interceptions). The Illini have dropped seven of their last nine games overall, dating back to last year. 17th-ranked Michigan silenced some critics last week with a remarkable 38-35 come-from-behind win at 13th-ranked Minnesota as -1 point favorites. QB John Navarre completed 33-of-47 passes for 353 yards and two TD's for the Wolverines, who trailed 28-7 heading into the fourth quarter, but rallied for 31 points in the final frame. Michigan was outgained in total "O" 495-483 and had a 424-94 deficit in rushing, but won the battle through the air with a 389-71 edge. Illinois is 16-5-1 ATS as a double-digit road dog and the visitor in this series is 10-2 ATS the last 12 meetings. Michigan is only 1-5 ATS as a home favorite when facing Illinois, but come in 3-1 ATS in their last four homecoming affairs. Michigan won last year's meeting 45-28 as -7½ point road favorites.
PURDUE (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at WISCONSIN (6-1 SU/4-3 ATS)
The 15th-ranked Boilermakers are off a 28-14 home win and cover (-11½) over Penn State last week. QB Kyle Orton completed 17-of-28 passes for 131 yards with an interception for the Purdue, who have won five straight games following a season-opening home loss to Bowling Green. Brandon Jones rushed for 149 yards and two touchdowns on 29 carries and Anthony Chambers returned a punt 76 yards for a touchdown and for Purdue, which defeated the Nittany Lions for only the second time in school history. Purdue dominated the game with edges in total "O" (350-204), first downs (19-13) and time of possession (37:24 to 22:36). 12th-ranked Wisky comes into this one flying high as they knocked off the very overrated, 3rd-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes in a 17-10 home win as +2½ point underdogs. RB Booker Stanley rushed for 129 yards and a score on 31 carries for the Badgers, who won their fourth straight game. Backup quarterback Matt Schabert came off the bench after starter Jim Sorgi was forced to leave when he suffered a throat injury in the third quarter. He responded well as he threw a 79-yard touchdown pass to Lee Evans with 5:20 to play to lift the Badgers to the win. It was a close game as Wisky held a 285-259 edge in total "O", but won the game on the ground with a 140-65 edge in rushing. Purdue has done well against Wisky in recent times, going 8-4 ATS versus the Badgers the last 12 meetings. The Boilermakers have also fared well on fake grass, logging a 16-8-1 ATS mark. Wisky comes in 4-2 ATS in their last 6 homecoming games. Last meeting was in 2000 with Purdue coming away with a 30-24 road win in OT as -5½ point favorites.
TEMPLE (1-5 SU/4-1 ATS) at MIAMI FLORIDA (6-0 SU/3-3 ATS)
Temple dropped a 38-13 home decision to Boston College last week as +9 point underdogs. Temple quarterback Mike McGann completed 14-of-25 pass attempts for 96 yards and was intercepted twice, while his replacement Walter Washington completed 12-of-22 passes for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Owls were totally dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (641-276), first downs (25-14) and rushing yards (309-83). The 2nd-ranked Hurricanes proved they belonged in the nation's elite last week with an impressive 22-14 win and cover at 5th-ranked Florida State as +7 point underdogs. QB Brock Berlin was 15-of-28 passing for 181 yards and a touchdown for Miami, which has won four straight against the Seminoles. RB Jarrett Payton ran for a career- high 97 yards on 26 carries and Sean Taylor had a 49-yard interception return for a touchdown, as Miami extended its regular-season winning streak to 38 games. Miami turned the ball over five times (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions) in the rain-soaked game, but also forced five Florida State turnovers (3 fumbles, 2 interceptions). For the game, the 'Canes outgained the 'Noles in total "O" 312-296. The Owls are 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS the last seven meetings with Miami, losing by an average score of 45-11. Last season Temple covered in a 44-21 home loss as +37½ point dogs, but prior to that they were 0-4 ATS against the 'Canes.
TEXAS TECH (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at OKLAHOMA STATE (5-1 SU/4-1 ATS)
23rd-ranked Texas Tech continued rolling last week in a 52-21 win over Iowa State as -16 point home chalks. QB B.J. Symons completed 45-of-65 passes for 487 yards and three touchdowns in the win for the Red Raiders. Symons, who missed throwing for his fourth straight 500-yard passing performance by 13 yards, also ran for two touchdowns. In the process, Symons broke an NCAA record for passing yards over a four-game stretch with 2,170 yards through the air. It was a total domination by Texas Tech as they held edges in total "O" (767-335), first downs (49-14), rushing yards (236-79) and time of possession (36:15 to 23:45). 24th-ranked Oklahoma State is coming off a big 38-24 home win and cover (+2½) over 22nd-ranked Kansas State last week. QB Josh Fields completed 12-of-21 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns, RB Tatum Bell rushed for 142 yards and two TD's and WR Rashaun Woods caught six passes for 119 yards for the Cowboys, who have won five straight games following a season-opening loss to Nebraska. The Cowboys came away with the win despite deficits in total "O" (478-377), first downs (25-19) and time of possession (31:19 to 28:41). Texas Tech has dominated this series, going 8-1 ATS the last 9 meetings with the Cowboys and the Red Raiders have averaged nearly 52 points per game the last three meetings. Oklahoma State is 7-1 ATS in their last 8 homecoming games and are playing with revenge from last years 49-24 loss at Tech as +9 point underdogs.
EAST CAROLINA (0-6 SU/2-4 ATS) at ARMY (0-6 SU/3-3 ATS)
East Carolina remained winless on the season last week in a 28-17 home loss to North Carolina as +9½ point underdogs. QB Desmond Robinson completed 13-of-17 passes for 122 yards and two TD's in the loss for the Pirates, who were outgained in total "O" 388-280. Army dropped a 34-10 decision at Louisville last week, but covered as +31½ point underdogs. Zac Dahman paced the Knights with 130 yards on 17-of-30 passing. Matt Silva also saw action at QB, completing just 11-of-25 pass attempts for 112 yards and three interceptions. Jacob Murphy hauled in five receptions for 49 yards for Army, which has now lost eight consecutive games dating back to last season. The Knights were outgained in total "O" 619-339 in total yards, including 208-97 on the ground. East Carolina is 6-0 SU and 4-2 ATS the last six meetings with Army and the home team in this series is 1-5 ATS the last six meetings. Last season was the exception as ECU romped to a 59-24 home win as -20 point favorites.
MARSHALL (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at BUFFALO (0-7 SU/1-5 ATS)
Marshall is off a 49-33 home win over Kent State last week, but failed to cover as -19½ point chalks. QB Stan Hill, who made his first start since spraining his knee on September 6th, completed 27-of-32 passes 392 yards and five touchdowns. Josh Davis had eight receptions for 144 yards and three TD's in the win for the Thundering Herd, who outgained Kent in total "O" 604-436 and had edges in first downs (28-19) and rushing yards (212-88). Buffalo was pounded at Miami-Ohio last week in a 59-3 loss as +35½ point underdogs. RB Dave Dawson led the Bulls in defeat with 104 rushing yards on 13 carries and QB P.J. Piskorik struggled all day, completing just 11-of-23 pass attempts for only 86 yards and an interception. Buffalo has lost 17 consecutive games, which is the longest current streak in the nation. The Bulls were totally dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (487-244), first downs (27-11) and passing yards (264-86). Marshall is 4-0 SU but only 2-2 ATS the last four meetings with the Bulls. outscoring them 206-52. Marshall has not fared well as a MAC traveler, going just 7-14 ATS in their last 21 conference road affairs. Buffalo has been outscored 165-68 in their last four homecoming games and come in on a current 3-10 ATS run in their last 13 games.
TOLEDO (4-2 SU/3-2 ATS) at CENTRAL MICHIGAN (2-4 SU/2-2 ATS)
Toledo trampled over Eastern Michigan last week in a 49-14 home win and cover (-27). QB Bruce Gradkowski completed 23-of-30 pass attempts for 289 yards and three scores for the Rockets in the win. Toledo outgained Eastern Michigan in total "O" 479-247 and held a 152-14 edge in return yards. Central Michigan comes off a 40-24 home loss to 16th-ranked Northern Illinois last week but covered as +18 point underdogs. QB Derrick Vickers completed 17-of-30 passes for 215 yards and a score for the Chippewas, but he was intercepted four times by the Northern Illinois defense. Terrence Jackson rushed for 90 yards and a score on 24 carries, while Kenan Lawhorne had both a rushing and receiving touchdown in the loss. Lawhorne rushed eight times for 34 yards and caught four passes for 34 yards. Central Michigan led 17-0 in the second quarter, but could not hold on for the win as they were outgained in total "O" 404-360. Toledo is 8-0 SU and 6-2 ATS the last 8 meetings with the Chippewas, but the home team in this series is 3-0 ATS the last three meetings. Toledo won last years game 44-17 as -14 point home favorites.
WAKE FOREST (3-3 SU/3-3 ATS) at DUKE (2-4 SU/1-4 ATS)
Wake was shocked at home last week in a 24-7 loss as -3½ point favorites. QB Cory Randolph paced Wake Forest in the loss by completing 14-of-29 passes for 135 yards and two interceptions. RB Chris Barclay led the Demon Deacons' ground attack with 124 yards and a score on 19 carries. It was a poor display for Wake Forest, who was outgained in total "O" 429-272 and had deficits in first downs (23-12) and time of possession (33:47 to 26:13). Duke hung tough last week in a 33-20 loss at Maryland as +28 point underdogs. QB Mike Schneider threw for 270 yards and a touchdown on 20-of-46 passing and Alex Wade rushed for two touchdowns and 65 yards, while Chris Douglas led Duke with 77 yards on 15 carries. The Blue Devils lost the game despite holding edges in total "O" (392-370), first downs (23-19) and time of possession (36:10 to 23:50). Wake has not fared well against Duke in recent times; logging an 8-14 ATS mark the last 22 meetings with the Blue Devils, including 3-7 ATS the last ten visits to Duke. Wake won last years meeting 36-10 as -11 point home favorites.
BAYLOR (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS) at KANSAS (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS)
Baylor was pounded last week in a 73-10 road loss at Texas A&M as +20½ point underdogs. QB Aaron Karas paced the Bears in defeat, completing 15-of-25 passes for 138 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Robert Quiroga pulled down a team-high seven balls for 74 yards for Baylor, which saw its three-game winning streak come to an end. Baylor was thoroughly dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (719-184), first downs (32-12) and rushing yards (437-32). Kansas put up a good fight last week in a 50-47 OT loss at Colorado, but covered as +6 point underdogs. QB Bill Whittemore led the Jayhawks in defeat with five total touchdowns. He completed 19-of-29 pass attempts for 422 yards and three touchdowns, while rushing for 61 yards and two scores on 17 carries. Clark Green added 87 rushing yards and a score on 15 carries and Mark Simmons hauled in six catches for 152 yards and a touchdown. The game was an offensive shootout with Colorado holding a slight edge in total "O" (596-567). Baylor comes in 3-6 ATS in their second straight road game. Prior to this season, Kansas was 0-10 SU and ATS at home versus Big 12 teams, but beat Missouri at home a couple of weeks ago to snap that streak. The home team is 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last three meetings between these two and the Jayhawks are playing with revenge after dropping a 35-32 setback at Baylor last season as +4 point dogs.
GEORGIA (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at VANDERBILT (1-6 SU/1-4-1 ATS)
8th-ranked Georgia blew out 13th-ranked Tennessee on the road last week in a 41-14 rout as -1½ point favorites. QB David Greene completed 22-of-27 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown and Georgia capitalized on four Tennessee turnovers in the win for the Bulldogs. Sean Jones returned a fumble 92 yards for a score just before halftime for Georgia, who won their fourth in a row over Tennessee and moved into first place in the SEC East division. Georgia dominated the game with edges in total "O" (414-248) and time of possession (36:19 to 23:41). Vandy comes in off a 37-27 home loss to Navy as -4½ point chalks. QB Jay Cutler completed 18-of-30 passes for 227 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in defeat for Vanderbilt, who had deficits in total "O" (502-373), first downs (29-22), rushing yards (342-146) and time of possession (36:53 to 23:07). Georgia is 5-0 SU and ATS the last 5 visits to Vandy and won last years meeting 48-17 as -25½ point home chalks. Vandy comes in an impressive 14-6-1 ATS as a double digit home dog, but are on a current 2-8-2 ATS run and the visitor is 10-1 ATS the last 11 meetings in this series.
ALABAMA (3-4 SU/3-4 ATS) at MISSISSIPPI (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Alabama beat Southern Miss last week 17-3 as -10 point home favorites. RB Shaud Williams ran for 170 yards and two touchdowns and QB Brandon Avalos completed just 3-of-7 passes for 12 yards and an interception in his first career start for Alabama, who ran for 243 yards and passed for just 12 yards. By contrast, Southern Miss rushed for only 17 yards and threw for 244 yards. Ole Miss comes in off a 55-0 pounding of Arkansas State last week as -25½ point home favorites. QB Eli Manning completed 23-of-36 pass attempts for 306 yards and three TD's, while WR Chris Collins was Manning's favorite target, as he caught eight balls for 146 yards and a touchdown. It was a game of dominance for the Rebels as they held edges in total "O" (582-235) and first downs (33-15). Alabama is 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS the last 8 visits to Oxford and 14-4 ATS the last 18 meetings with Ole Miss. The SU winner in this series is 17-2 ATS the last 19 meetings. Alabama won last years meeting 42-7 as -11 point home favorites.
FLORIDA (4-3 SU/3-3 ATS) at ARKANSAS (4-1 SU/3-2 ATS)
Florida pulled an upset last week as they beat 6th-ranked LSU 19-7 as +10 point road underdogs. QB Chris Leak completed 18- of-30 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns in the win for the Gators. Florida outgained LSU in total "O" 310-287 and held LSU to just 56 yards on the ground and also held an 18-14 edge in first downs. 11th-ranked Arkansas dropped a 10-3 home decision to Auburn last week as -4 point chalks. RB Cedric Cobbs had 78 yards on 16 carries and QB Matt Jones completed 13 of his 28 passes for 168 yards for the Razorbacks, who had 278 yards of total offense in the game, while allowing Auburn the same exact amount (278). Cobbs was held to fewer than 100 yards for the first time this season. Florida is 3-0 SU and ATS the last three meetings with the Hogs and 6-3 ATS in the second game of back-to-back road affairs. This will be the first meeting between these two squads since 1997.
MICHIGAN STATE (6-1 SU/4-3 ATS) at MINNESOTA (6-1 SU/5-1-1 ATS)
18th-ranked Michigan State pounded Illinois on the road last week in a 49-14 win as -3½ point favorites. QB Jeff Smoker completed 23-of-31 passes for 317 yards and two touchdown passes and also rushed for a touchdown for the Spartans, who extended their winning streak over Illinois to seven games. Michigan State outgained Illinois in total "O" 419-371 and forced three turnovers in the game (1 fumble, 2 interceptions). 19th-ranked Minnesota comes in off a heartbreaking 38-35 home loss to 12th-ranked Michigan as +1 point home 'dogs. RB Marion Barber III ran for 197 yards and one TD on 21 carries for the Gophers, who had their six-game winning streak snapped despite rushing for 424 yards. Barber also set the school record with 15 touchdown runs in a season. QB Asad Abdul-Khaliq ran for 106 yards and a touchdown on nine carries, but threw two interceptions, for the Gophers, who led 28-7 after the third quarter, only to get outscored 31-7 in the final stanza. Minny outgained the Wolves in total "O" 495-483, but had a 389-71 deficit in passing yards. Michigan State is 6-2 ATS in the second of back-to-back road games, but are only 3-7 ATS the last 10 meetings with the Gophers. The Spartans are playing with revenge from last years 28-7 home loss to Minny as -4½ point favorites.
MIAMI-OHIO (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at BALL STATE (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS)
Miami-Ohio pounded Buffalo last week in a 59-3 home win as -35½ point favorites. QB Ben Roethlisberger completed 18-of-24 pass attempts for 234 yards and threw four TD's in the win for the RedHawks, who have now won five consecutive games since dropping its season opener at Iowa. Miami-Ohio dominated the game with edges in total "O" (487-244), first downs (27-11) and passing yards (264-86). Ball State had a bye last week after beating Kent State 34-17 as +2½ point road underdogs two weeks ago. QB Talmadge Hill completed 16-of-24 passes for 164 yards and 2 TD's for the Cardinals, who were outgained in total "O" 365-302 and had a (21-16) deficit in first downs. Ball State capitalized on four Kent State turnovers (3 fumbles, 1 interception) in the game, as well. Miami-Ohio is 6-2 SU and ATS as a conference traveler the last two years and 4-2 SU and ATS versus MAC West teams the past three seasons. Last meeting was in 2001 with Miami coming away with a 28-20 road win as -6½ point favorites. The RedHawks also come in on a 9-4 ATS run in their last 13 games. The home team in this series is 7-4 ATS and Ball State comes in 3-0 ATS in their last 3 homecoming affairs.
HAWAII (3-3 SU/1-4 ATS) at LOUISIANA TECH (3-3 SU/3-2-1 ATS)
Hawaii is off a 55-28 home win and cover (-4) over Fresno State last week. QB Timmy Chang completed 40-of-60 passes for 353 yards, with no interceptions and had three of his five touchdown passes in the decisive second quarter and also became the 25th quarterback in Division I-A history to pass for 10,000 yards in a career. Chang has thrown for 1,659 yards in his five starts this season and has 10,274 yards for his career. The Warriors gained 549 yards of total offense in the game, compared to 382 for Fresno State. La Tech is off a 38-35 road win at UTEP, but failed to cover as -15 point chalks. QB Luke McCown completed 22-of-40 passes for 328 yards and two touchdowns, while D.J. Curry hauled in a team-high seven receptions for 113 yards and two scores. Ryan Moats had a solid game as well for the Bulldogs, finishing with 118 yards rushing and two scores off of 22 carries. La tech was outgained in total "O" 535-493, but held a 27-21 edge in first downs and a 108-9 edge in return yards. Hawaii is 9-6 ATS in their last 15 conference road affairs and beat La Tech 27-10 as +1 point home 'dogs in the only previous meeting between these two team in 2000. La Tech comes in just 6-12-1 ATS in their last 19 games overall and are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games.
NEVADA (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS) at TULSA (3-3 SU/4-1 ATS)
Nevada pulled off one of the biggest upsets last week as they went into Washington and came away with a stunning 28-17 win as +18 point road dogs. QB Andy Heiser completed 19-of-29 passes for 299 yards threw three touchdowns and WR Maurice Mann caught seven balls for 168 yards and a touchdown in the win for the Wolfpack, who were outgained in total "O" 389-381. Nevada capitalized on 5 Husky turnovers in the game (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions). Tulsa dropped a tough 27-20 decision at Boise State last week, but easily covered as +22 point underdogs. QB James Kilian completed 22-of-35 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns, but he did toss an interception in a losing effort for Tulsa. Romby Bryant recorded seven receptions for 148 yards and two scores for the Golden Hurricane, who were outgained in total "O" 363-339. Nevada is on a current 11-5-1 ATS run dating back to last season. Prior to this season, Tulsa was 5-15-1 ATS the previous two years, but come in on a current 9-3 ATS run in their last 12 games.
BOISE STATE (5-1 SU/1-4 ATS) at SMU (0-6 SU/1-5 ATS)
Boise State comes in off a lackluster 27-20 home win over Tulsa last week, failing to cover as -22 point favorites. QB Ryan Dinwiddie completed 12-of-26 passes for 199 yards and David Mikell ran for 139 yards and one score on 27 carries to lead the Broncos to the win. Tim Gilligan had a solid game for the Broncos, recording four receptions for 92 yards in the game. Boise State outgained Tulsa in total "O" by a narrow margin (363-339) and held a 164-110 edge in rushing. SMU is off a 35-14 loss at San Jose State last week as +8 point underdogs. QB Richard Bartel led the winless Mustangs in the loss, throwing for 198 yards and two touchdowns on 11-of-20 passing. RB Keylon Kincade ran for 91 yards on 27 carries, while Matt Rushbrook had four catches for a team-high 72 yards for the Mustangs, who were outgained in total "O" 448-267 and had deficits in first downs (22-11) and time of possession (36:35 to 23:25). Boise State is 7-2 SU and 6-3 ATS in their last 9 conference road affairs. SMU comes in riding a 2-8 ATS run dating back to last season, but are 11-8 ATS as a double digit underdog (1-2 this season). This will be the first ever meeting between these two teams.
BYU (3-4 SU/4-3 ATS) at WYOMING (2-4 SU/3-2 ATS)
BYU was pounded at home last week in a 58-13 home loss as +1½ point underdogs. QB John Beck was 10-of-22 for 136 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Cougars in the loss. BYU was totally outplayed in the game with deficits in total "O" (446-269), first downs (20-14) and time of possession (32:27 to 27:33). BYU was also hurt by four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions) and was outgained in return yards 136-19. Wyoming is coming off a 48-21 road win at Utah State as -2½ point road favorites. QB Casey Bramlet completed 13-of-24 passes for 211 yards and three scores and Derek Armah rushed for 123 yards and two scores on 22 carries for Wyoming, while also leading the squad with four receptions for 41 yards. Wyoming controlled the game with edges in total "O" (434-357), first downs (22-16) and time of possession (36:36 to 23:24). BYU is 6-1 SU, but a pathetic 0-7 ATS the last seven meetings with the Cowboys, including 1-4 ATS in their last 5 visits to Laramie. However, Wyoming is 0-3-1 ATS in their last MWC home openers - but are playing with revenge after last years 35-31 loss at BYU as +11 point dogs.
IOWA (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at OHIO STATE (5-1 SU/1-4-1 ATS)
9th-ranked Iowa had a bye last week after beating previously 11th-ranked Michigan 30-27 as +3 point home 'dogs two weeks ago. QB Nathan Chandler completed 17-of-34 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for a score and RB Fred Russell led the ground game in the win with 110 yards on 26 carries for the Hawkeyes, who beat Michigan at home for the first time since 1985. Iowa won the game despite having deficits in total "O" (463-295), first downs (18-14) and passing yards (389-195). The overrated Buckeyes (ranked 8th this week) had their 18 game winning streak (nation's longest) snapped last week in a 17-10 road loss at Wisconsin as -2½ point favorites. QB Craig Krenzel was 14-of-26 passing for 200 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Buckeyes, who had the nation's longest win streak halted at 19 games. Krenzel returned to the lineup after missing two games with an injury, but it wasn't enough as Ohio State lost in their first road game of the season. Ohio State was outgained in total "O" 285-259, as well as 140-65 on the ground. Iowa has not fared well when going against Ohio State, logging a 4-13 ATS mark the last 17 meetings and come in just 1-6 ATS the week after a bye. The Buckeyes come in 22-11 ATS as a single digit favorite the last three years. Last meeting was in 2000, with OSU winning at Iowa 38-10 as 19 point road favorites. Note Ohio State's 2-5-1 ATS run dating back to last season.
FLORIDA STATE (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at VIRGINIA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
The 7th-ranked Seminoles are off a 22-14 home loss to 2nd-ranked Miami-Florida as -7 point favorites. QB Chris Rix completed 20-of- 42 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns and WR P.K. Sam caught nine passes for 95 yards, while Willie Reid and Chris Davis each had a TD reception, for the Seminoles who were outgained in total "O" 312-296. Florida State had five turnovers in the game (3 fumbles, 2 interceptions), but also forced five Miami turnovers (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions) in the rain-soaked affair. Virginia dropped a 30-27 OT decision at Clemson last week as -4½ point road favorites. QB Matt Schaub was 33-of-48 for 271 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the loss. RB Alvin Pearman carried eight times for 35 yards and a touchdown and also caught four passes for 45 yards for the Cavaliers, who were outgained in total "O" 488-324 and had deficits in first downs (29-17) and time of possession ( 34:11 to 25:49). The 'Noles are 10-1 SU and 8-3 ATS the last 11 meetings with the Cavs, including 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last 3 visits to Charlottesville, winning by an average score of 40-10. Virginia comes in 7-1 ATS as a home underdog and are playing with revenge from last years 40-19 loss at Florida State as +26½ point dogs.
ARIZONA STATE (3-3 SU/1-4 ATS) at NORTH CAROLINA (1-5 SU/4-1 ATS)
Arizona State finally lived up to their preseason hype last week with a 59-14 rout over Oregon as +1 point home underdogs. QB Andrew Walter connected on 18-of-28 passes for 316 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions and Hakim Hill scored two rushing touchdowns in the victory for Arizona State, who outgained the Ducks in total "O" 496-286 and had a 24-15 edge in first downs and passing yards (338-127). The Tar Heels finally got in the win column last week with a 28-17 road win and cover (-9½) at East Carolina. QB Darian Durant completed 15-of-29 passes for 199 yards and two TD's and RB Ronnie McGill ran for 67 yards and a touchdown in the win for North Carolina, which generated 189 yards on the ground. Overall, North Carolina outgained the Pirates in total "O" 388-280. Arizona State comes in 1-5 ATS in their last 6 non-conference road affairs. North Carolina is a mere 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 homecoming games. Last year, NC beat Arizona State 38-35 as +8½ point road dogs as the two teams combined for almost 1200 yards of total offense.
TEXAS A&M (3-3 SU/1-5 ATS) at NEBRASKA (5-1 SU/3-3 ATS)
Texas A&M snapped a three game losing streak in fine fashion last week with a 73-10 pounding of Baylor as -20½ point home favorites. QB Reggie McNeal finished the game 9-of-14 for 199 yards and 3 TD's and ran for two more in leading the A&M Aggies to the east win. McNeal, while also rushing for 61 yards on eight carries. Courtney Lewis led the Aggies with 158 rushing yards and two scores on 12 attempts. Derek Farmer added 117 rushing yards on 11 carries for Texas A&M, who totally dominated the game with edges in total "O" (719-184), first downs (32-12) and rushing yards (437-32). 14th-ranked Nebraska suffered their first loss of the season last week in a 41-24 setback at Missouri as -7½ point favorites. QB Jammal Lord completed 12-of-18 passes for 146 yards with one touchdown and one interception for the Cornhuskers, who fumbled four times and committed five total turnovers. Lord ran for 111 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, while David Horne carried the ball 26 times for 119 yards with a score in the losing effort. Nebraska was outgained in total "O" (452-399) but held an edge in rushing (253-211). A&M is only 1-4 SU and ATS the last 5 meetings with Nebraska and come in 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games played on fake grass. Nebraska has done well in homecoming games, going 11-0 SU and 8-3 ATS the last 11 years. Nebraska won last year's meeting 38-31 at A&M as +5½ point dogs.
MISSOURI (5-1 SU/3-2 ATS) at OKLAHOMA (6-0 SU/4-2 ATS)
Missouri is coming off a 41-24 upset win over 10th-ranked Nebraska as +7½ point home underdogs. QB Brad Smith completed 13-of-27 passes for 180 yards with two touchdowns, rushed for three touchdowns and caught another, as Missouri shocked the Huskers in a game played in a quagmire. Smith ran for a game-high 123 yards on 18 carries and for the Tigers, who put an end to a 45-game losing streak against top-10 teams. Mizzou outgained Nebraska in total "O" 452-399 and recovered four Nebraska fumbles in the game, as well as grabbing one interception. Number-one ranked Oklahoma lived up to their top ranking last week with a solid 65-13 rout over 11th-ranked Texas as -6 point favorites in a game played at Dallas. QB Jason White completed 17-of-21 passes for 290 yards and threw four touchdowns to lead the Sooners. RB Renaldo Works rushed for 112 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries and WR Mark Clayton caught eight passes for 190 yards and a touchdown for Oklahoma, which turned five Texas turnovers into 24 points. Oklahoma dominated the game with edges in total "O" (552-327), first downs (25-17) and time of possession (36:23 to 23:37). Mizzou has not fared well against Oklahoma in recent times; logging a 3-16 SU and 6-12-1 ATS mark the last 19 meetings with the Sooners. Oklahoma comes in 9-5 ATS at home in conference games. Last years game was a struggle as the Sooners won 31-24 as -13½ point road chalks.
CALIFORNIA (3-4 SU4-3 ATS) at UCLA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Cal had last week off after dropping a 35-21 home decision to Oregon State as -1½ point favorites two weeks ago. QB Aaron Rodgers had an ineffective outing in the loss, completing just 9-of-34 passes for only 52 yards and one interception. The 52 passing yards by the Golden Bears is their worst performance since tossing just 89 yards in a 21-17 defeat to Washington State on September 30, 2000. Cal was dominated the game with deficits in total "O" (493-237), first downs (24-19) and passing yards (224-52). RB Adimchinobe Echemandu was the only offensive standout for California, gaining 146 yards on 19 carries, with two TD's. UCLA barely got by pathetic Arizona last week in a 24-21 road win as -16 point chalks. QB Drew Olson completed 15-of-22 passes for 189 yards, with no TD's and one interception, while RB Tyler Ebell rushed for 61 yards and a score in the win for the Bruins. UCLA was fortunate to win as they had deficits in total "O" (499-327), first downs (21-16) and rushing yards (276-103). Cal has done well the week after a bye, going 9-3 ATS and are an impressive 12-4 ATS the last 16 meetings with UCLA. The Bears are 12-7 ATS under head coach Jeff Tedford and won last years meeting 17-12 as +3½ point home dogs.
W MICHIGAN (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS) at NORTHERN ILLINOIS (6-0 SU/3-2 ATS)
Western Michigan dropped a 32-21 home decision to Bowling Green last week as +9 point underdogs. QB Chad Munson threw for 330 yards and three scores in defeat for Western Michigan, who were outgained in total "O" (510-387) and had deficits in first downs (29-13) and time of possession (40:38 to 19:22). The 16th-ranked Huskies survived a scare last week in a 40-24 road win at Central Michigan last week as -18 point road chalks. RB Michael Turner rushed for 199 yards and two touchdowns on 28 carries and QB Josh Haldi was 14-of-23 passing for 147 yards in the win for Northern Illinois, who trailed 17-0 at one point in the second quarter. Northern Illinois outgained Central Michigan in total "O" 404-360 and capitalized on four interceptions in the game. W Mich is 5-2 SU but only 2-5 ATS the last 7 meetings with the Huskies. last season Northern Illinois won 24-20 as -2½ point road favorites. Northern Illinois enters this one on a 12-4 ATS run dating back to last season.
WASHINGTON STATE (5-1 SU/3-3 ATS) at STANFORD (2-2 SU/3-1 ATS)
The 6th-ranked Cougars had a bye last week after beating Arizona 30-7 as -32 point home favorites two weeks ago. QB Matt Kegel completed 18-of-32 passes for 315 yards and two TD's in the win for Wazzou, who posted their fourth straight victory since a 29-26 season-opening OT loss at Notre Dame. RB Jonathan Smith led the Cougars with 83 rushing yards on 20 carries. Washington State dominated the game with edges in total "O" (513-198), first downs (24-9) and time of possession (33:41 to 26:19). Stanford was punished last week in a 44-21 road loss at 9th-ranked USC as +21 point underdogs. QB Chris Lewis completed 11-of-21 passes for 89 yards and a late touchdown for the Cardinal, who lost their second straight game, while RB Kenneth Tolon ran for 52 yards on 11 carries. Lewis replaced Stanford starter Trent Edwards, who completed 11-of-19 passes for 67 yards. The Cardinal were dominated in the game by the Trojans, with deficits in total "O" (493-292) and rushing yards (220-86). Stanford was also hurt by four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions). Wash State is only 3-8 SU and 2-9 ATS the last 11 meetings with Stanford, but 2-0 SU and ATS the last two years. The Cougars are also just 2-4 ATS off a bye week in recent times. Stanford lost last years meeting 36-11 as +8½ point home underdogs.
BOWLING GREEN (5-1 SU/3-1 ATS) at E MICHIGAN (1-6 SU/2-3 ATS)
Bowling Green is off a 32-21 road win and cover (-9) at Western Michigan last week. QB Josh Harris threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more and WR Cole Magner made 11 catches for 140 yards and two scores in the victory for Bowling Green, who completely dominated the game with edges in total "O" (510-387), first downs (29-13) and time of possession (40:38 to 19:22). Eastern Michigan was thumped at Toledo last week in a 49-14 loss as +27 point road underdogs. QB Chinedu Okoro completed 14-of-32 passes for 113 yards and one score, but also threw two interceptions in the losing effort for the Eagles, who were outgained in total "O" 479-247. Bowling Green is 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS the last five meetings with the Eagles, but are a meager 8-16 SU and ATS in their last 24 games played on fake grass. Eastern Michigan is 0-4 SU and ATS the week before a bye. Bowling Green won last years meeting 63-21 as -32 point home chalks in the last regular season game of the year.
CENTRAL FLORIDA (2-4 SU/0-5 ATS) at AKRON (4-3 SU/2-3 ATS)
Central Florida did not look good at all last week in a 28-0 road loss at Ohio as +3½ point underdogs. QB Jon Rivera completed just 7-of-20 pass attempts for 90 yards in the loss for the golden Knights, who had deficits in total "O" (390-110), first downs (20-8) and rushing yards (246-6). The game marked the first time that the Golden Knights were held scoreless since losing to Indiana State 38-0 in 1984. Akron had a breather last week in a 45-14 home win over Cal-Poly in a non-lined affair. QB Charlie Frye completed 12-of-19 passes for 195 yards and four TD's and RB Jerell Ringer rushed for 167 yards on 20 carries with a TD in the win for the Zips, who outgained Cal-Poly in total "O" 407-293. The home team in this short series is 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last three seasons. Last year, Akron won 28-17, but did not cover as -19 point favs.
TEXAS (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS) at IOWA STATE (2-4 SU/1-4 ATS)
The 20th-ranked Longhorns got whipped last week in a 65-13 loss to number-one ranked Oklahoma as +6 point underdogs in a game played at Dallas. QB Chance Mock started for the Longhorns, but threw an early interception before being replaced by redshirt freshman Vince Young, who did not fare much better. Young committed three turnovers of his own, two interceptions and a fumble, but ran for 127 yards on 15 carries and threw for 135 yards on 11-of-21 passing. Texas was completely dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (552-327), first downs (25-17) and time of possession (36:23 to 23:37). The Longhorns also committed 6 turnovers (3 fumbles, 3 interceptions) that resulted in 24 Oklahoma points. Iowa State was pounded as well last week in a 52-21 loss at Texas Tech as +16 point underdogs, sending the Cyclones to their fourth straight loss. QB Chris Love threw for 262 yards and two touchdowns on 15-of-29 passing, but Iowa State was dominated in every facet of the game with deficits in total "O" (767-335), first downs (49-14), rushing yards (236-79) and time of possession (36:15 to 23:45). Texas is 12-4-2 ATS the week after playing Oklahoma and come in 6-3 ATS versus Big 12 North Division foes the last three seasons. Iowa State is 0-4 SU but 3-1 ATS the last four meetings with Texas and come in 8-3 ATS in their last 11 homecoming games. Texas won last years meeting played in Austin, 21-10, but did not cover as -12½ point chalks.
OHIO (2-4 SU/2-3 ATS) at KENTUCKY (2-4 SU/4-1 ATS)
Ohio is off a convincing 28-0 home win and cover (-3½) over Central Florida last week. QB Austin Everson completed all four of his passes for 118 yards and ran for three touchdowns and threw for a fourth to lead the Ohio over the Golden Knights. Everson was Ohio's leading rusher as well, carrying the ball 21 times for 130 yards. Ohio dominated the game with edges in total "O" (390-110), first downs (20-8) and rushing yards (246-6). Kentucky is off a 27-21 loss at South Carolina last week as +8 point road underdogs. QB Shane Boyd, in relief of starting QB Jared Lorenzen, who left the game as a result of a helmet-to-helmet hit with a South Carolina defender, completed 7-of-14 passes for 81 yards with a TD and also led the team with 73 rushing yards on nine carries with a TD. Derek Abney caught five passes for 94 yards for Kentucky, who were who outgained by South Carolina in total "O" 339-327 and had deficits in first downs (20-18), time of possession (33:26 to 26:34) and return yards (102-3). Ohio is 2-0 ATS in two rare meetings with SEC teams and come in on a 7-3 ATS run dating back to last season. Kentucky is 7-4 ATS in its last 11 homecoming games and come in on an 11-5 ATS run dating back to last season.
COLORADO (3-3 SU/1-5 ATS) at KANSAS STATE (4-3 SU/1-4 ATS)
Colorado is off a thrilling 50-47 OT win at home last week over Kansas, but failed to cover as -6 point favorites. QB Joel Klatt led the Buffaloes by completing 38-of-54 passes for 419 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Klatt also rushed for a touchdown in the victory for Colorado. Brian Calhoun led the ground attack with 135 yards and a score on 24 rushing attempts. The game was an offensive display as both teams combined for 1,163 yards, with the Buffs holding a slight edge (596-567) and a 36-23 edge in first downs. Kansas State is off a 38-34 loss at Oklahoma State last week as -2½ point road favorites. QB Ell Roberson threw for 332 yards and four touchdown passes, but it was his three interceptions that proved costly for the Wildcats, who lost their third straight game. RB Darren Sproles rushed for 74 yards on 17 carries for Kansas State, who lost despite having edges in total "O" (478-377), first downs (25-19) and time of possession (31:19 to 28:41). The Buffs are 4-1 ATS the last five meetings with Kansas State and 6-3 ATS at Manhattan since 1987, but 1-3 ATS the last four visits. Overall, Kansas State is just 5-13 ATS the last 18 meetings with Colorado, but are 5-1 SU and ATS the week before facing Kansas. Last year, Colorado won 35-31 as -3½ point home favorites.
UAB (3-3 SU/2-4 ATS) at TCU (6-0 SU/2-4 ATS)
UAB is off a 31-14 home win over Cincinnati last week as +5½ point underdogs. QB Darrell Hackney connected on 12-of-21 pass attempts for 277 yards and two TD's and Roddy White finished the contest with four receptions for 171 yards and two scores for UAB, who have won two straight after a three game losing streak. RB Trey Chaney led the Blazer's ground game with 112 yards on 29 carries. UAB held edges in total "O" (382-319) and time of possession (34:53 to 25:07). 13th-ranked TCU is off a hard-fought 13-10 win and cover at South Florida last week as +2½ point underdogs. QB Tye Gunn completed 10-of-19 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown and Robert Merrill ran 22 times for 76 yards for TCU, who snapped USF's 21-game home winning streak with the road win. Cory Rodgers had three catches for 71 yards and a score and Reggie Harrell hauled in three balls for 52 yards, as the Horned Frogs ran their record to 6-0, the team's best start since going 7-0 to open the 2000 campaign. TCU's offense generated just 233 yards in the win, but their defense did a fine job in containing South Florida, allowing only 126 yards of total "O" and only 22 yards on the ground. UAB is 7-3 ATS as a conference road 'dog, while TCU counters with a 14-7 ATS mark as a conference home chalk. Last meeting was in 2001, with TCU winning 38-17 at UAB as +6 point underdogs. In that game, TCU allowed the Blazers just 20 yards on the ground.
UTAH (5-1 SU/6-0 ATS) at UNLV (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Utah kept rolling last week in a 27-6 home win and cover (-8) over San Diego State. QB Alex Smith completed 17-of-22 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns and RB Brandon Warfield rushed for 133 yards on 23 carries for Utah. Paris Warren led the Utes with seven receptions for 104 yards and one score, while Steve Savoy contributed with four catches for 92 yards and one touchdown. Utah outgained the Aztec's in total "O" 415-252 and had edges in first downs (22-15) and time of possession (33:04 to 26:56). Utah trailed 6-0 at the half, but dominated the second half, scoring 27 straight unanswered points following the break. UNLV is off a 24-7 loss at Air Force last week as +7 point underdogs. QB Kurt Nantkes completed only 8-of-20 passes for 84 yards, while RB Larry Croom rushed for 91 yards and a score in defeat for UNLV, who were outgained in total "O" (324-250) and in rushing yards (261-166). Utah has had success against UNLV, going 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS the last seven meetings. Utah has outscored UNLV 163-56 the last three games played in Vegas and won last years’ game 28-17 as -10½ point home favorites.
MEMPHIS 3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at HOUSTON (5-1 SU/4-1-1 ATS)
Memphis lost at Mississippi State last week in a 35-27 setback as +3 point road underdogs. QB Danny Wimprine completed 32-of-60 pass attempts for 398 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions, while WR Darren Garcia caught four balls for 104 yards and Darron White grabbed 10 passes for 102 yards. RB DeAngelo Williams led the ground attack with 119 yards on 15 attempts for the Tigers, who lost despite holding edges in total "O" (568-381) and first downs (29-18). Houston comes in off a 45-42 road win at Tulane last week as -1½ point road favorites. QB Kevin Kolb completed 22-of-39 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns and RB Anthony Evans led the Cougar ground attack with 103 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries. Houston dominated the game statistically with edges in total "O" (539-380), first downs (34-25) and time of possession (42:57 to 17:03). Memphis is 2-4 SU and ATS the last 6 encounters with Houston and are only 3-6 ATS in the second game of back-to-back road affairs. Houston comes in 2-10 ATS in the first of two or more home games, but are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven games overall. Houston won last years meeting 26-21 as +5 point road underdogs.
NEW MEXICO (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at SAN DIEGO STATE (3-4 SU/2-3 ATS)
The Lobos are off a bye week after posting a 34-7 win and cover (-13½) over Utah State two weeks ago. QB Casey Kelly completed 13-of-22 passes for 230 yards and RB DonTrell Moore rushed for 132 yards on 30 carries and two touchdowns in the win for New Mexico, who outgained Utah State in total "O" (352-221) and held edges in first downs (22-14) and time of possession (34:28 to 25:32). The Aztec's dropped a 27-6 loss at Utah last week as +8 point road underdogs. QB Adam Hall completed 19-of-36 passes for 203 yards, but he had one interception and failed to throw a touchdown for San Diego State, which led 6-0 at the half, only to get outscored 27-0 in the second half. The Aztec's were outgained in total "O" 415-252 and had deficits in first downs (22-15) and time of possession (33:04 to 26:56). The Lobos 12-4 ATS the last 16 meetings with the Aztec's. Additionally, the 'dog in this series is 10-3 ATS and the visitor comes in 9-4 ATS the last 13 meetings. New Mexico won last years meeting 15-8 as -5 point home chalks.
ADDED GAMES
CONNECTICUT (4-3 SU/4-2 ATS) at KENT STATE (3-4 SU/4-2 ATS)
UConn hung tough last week in a 31-24 loss at NC State last week, but covered as +14½ point underdogs. QB Dan Orlovsky racked up 299 yards and three scores through the air and Chris Bellamy ran for a career-high 166 yards in defeat for UConn, who lost the game on a 56-yard interception returned for a score with five seconds remaining. UConn outgained the Wolfpack in total "O" 452-323 and had edges in first downs (24-21) and rushing yards (153-89). Kent State lost at Marshall last week 49-33, but covered as +19½ point underdogs. QB Joshua Cribbs led the Flashes in defeat by throwing for three touchdown passes and 319 yards on 15-of-31 passing. Cribbs also ran and caught a score in the loss, while rushing for 30 yards on 18 carries. Kent was outgained in total "O" 604-436 and had deficits in first downs (28-19) and rushing yards (212-88). UConn is 6-2 ATS when playing on artificial turf and come in on a current 20-7 ATS run in their last 27 games. Kent is 0-4 SU and 1-3 ATS when facing Division 1-A Independents and lost last years meeting with UConn in a 63-21 blowout loss as +6½ point road underdogs.
MID TENNESSEE STATE (1-5 SU/3-2 ATS) at IDAHO (1-6 SU/3-2 ATS)
Middle Tennessee State is off a 35-18 home win and cover (-3½) over New Mexico State last week. QB Clint Marks completed 9-of-12 passes for 208 yards and three touchdowns, while leading the Blue Raiders to their first victory of the season. Eugene Gross was MTSU's leading rusher with 102 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. the Blue Raiders managed to win the game despite deficits in total "O" (525-293), first downs (28-9) and time of possession (35:11 to 24:49). Idaho is off a 24-14 home loss to North Texas last week as +7 point underdogs. QB Brian Lindgren completed 23-of-41 passes for 402 yards and two touchdowns, but he also tossed an interception for Idaho, which dropped its sixth game of the season. Orlando Winston led the Vandals with 10 receptions for 130 yards and one score, while Jimmy Labita added five catches for 151 yards and one touchdown in the losing effort. Zach Gerstner ran for 111 yards on 24 carries in the loss for Idaho, who outgained North Texas in total "O" 402-307 but had a 245-92 deficit in rushing yards. MTSU is 0-2 ATS in two recent meetings with Idaho, losing last year 21-18 as -3½ point road favorites and winning 70-58 in 2001 as -19½ point home chalks.
UTAH STATE (1-5 SU/3-3 ATS) at NORTH TEXAS (3-3 SU/3-3 ATS)
Utah dropped a 48-21 decision at home last week to Wyoming as +2½ point underdogs. QB Travis Cox completed 16-of-35 pass attempts for 202 yards and one score, while also rushing for a score and gaining 22 yards on eight carries. RB David Fiefia gained 86 yards and one touchdown on the ground for Utah State, which fell to 1-5 on the season. The Aggies were dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (434-357), first downs (22-16) and time of possession (36:36 to 23:24). North Texas won last week at Idaho in a 24-14 win as -7 point road favorites. QB Scott Hall completed 13-of-21 pass attempts for 105 yards and RB Patrick Cobbs ran for 249 yards and three touchdowns on 39 carries to lead the Mean Green to the win, which extended their Sun Belt Conference winning streak to 13 consecutive games. North Texas was outgained in total "O" 402-307 but had a 245-92 edge in rushing yards. Utah State is 4-1 SU and 2-3 ATS versus North Texas, but this will be the first meeting since 2000, when the Aggies won at North Texas 17-12 as -1 point favorites. North Texas enters this one on an 18-10 spread run in their last 28 games.
AIR FORCE (6-1 SU/3-3 ATS) at COLORADO STATE (4-3 SU/3-3 ATS)
The Falcons are off a 24-7 home win and cover over UNLV last week as -7 point chalks. QB Chance Harridge completed 5-of-10 passes for 63 yards and ran for 89 yards and two scores to lead Air Force to the win. The Falcons did not turn the ball over in the game and won the time of possession battle by over seven minutes (33:39 - 26:21) and also held edges in total "O" (324-250) and rushing yards (261-166). Colorado State absolutely annihilated BYU last week in a 58-13 romper as -1½ point road chalks. QB Bradlee Van Pelt Van Pelt completed 8-of-11 passes for 194 yards and three TD's and also carried the ball 12 times for 51 yards, while RB Marcus Houston had 84 yards and three touchdown runs on 18 carries for Colorado State, which has won two straight games. Eric Hill had three receptions for 97 yards and two touchdowns in the win for the Rams, who dominated the game with edges in total "O" (446-269), first downs (20-14) and time of possession (32:27 to 27:33). Colorado State forced four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions) and also outgained BYU in return yards 136-19. Colorado State seems to have snapped out of their early season slump which saw them suffer home losses to Miami-Ohio (lost 41-21 as -6 point favs) and to Utah (lost 28-21 as -6½ point chalks). Since then they have beaten Fresno State at home 34-10 as -6 point favorites in addition to last week's slaughter of BYU. The Rams offense is also clicking as of late (rank 17th in land with 456 ypg average). Air Force is just 7-11 ATS the last 18 meetings with the Rams, but come in 7-4 ATS the week before a bye. Colorado State also has a bye next week and is 13-5 ATS the week before a break. This is a revenger for the Falcons, who lost at home to Colorado State 31-12 last year as +1½ point underdogs. Air Force is 19-4 ATS as a dog of +2½ or more points, but Colorado State has done well against the Falcons (7-3 ATS last ten meetings) and are also 8-2 ATS in their second to last home game of the season. Colorado State is the choice here.
SELECTION: COLORADO STATE -5
Saturday, October 18th
LSU (5-1 SU/4-1 ATS) at SOUTH CAROLINA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
10th-ranked LSU was stunned at home last week in a 19-7 loss to Florida as -10 point favorites. QB Matt Mauck completed 19-of-33 passes for 231 yards, but also threw two costly interceptions in the loss. It was the first loss of the season for the Tigers, who have been in the top-10 for three straight weeks. LSU was outgained in total "O" 310-287 and could only muster 56 yards on the ground. South Carolina comes in off a 27-21 home win last week over Kentucky, but failed to cover as -8 point chalks. QB Dondrial Pinkins completed 17-of-29 passes for 184 yards, WR Syvelle Newton caught three passes for 68 yards and RB Demetris Summers had 66 rushing yards on 16 carries. The Gamecocks outgained Kentucky in total "O" 339-327 and had edges in first downs (20-18), time of possession (33:26 to 26:34) and return yards (102-3). South Carolina has not fared well as an SEC home underdog, going just 4-12 ATS the last 16 times that has happened. LSU won last year's meeting 38-14 as -8 point home favorites. The Gamecocks are 4-0 at home this season and 2-1 as a 'dog in 2003. Schedule wise, SC has played a tougher schedule, facing the likes of Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee and Kentucky. LSU's schedule has included La-Monroe, Arizona, Western Illinois, Mississippi State, Georgia and Florida. SC is on a 3-1 ATS run and are catching LSU coming off of hated Florida. LSU comes in 2-8-1 ATS the week after playing Florida, so this seems like a good spot for South Carolina. Both teams have solid defenses (LSU ranks 6th - allowing 265 ypg, South Carolina ranks 8th - allowing 273 ypg). Take the points.
SELECTION: SOUTH CAROLINA +4½
MISSISSIPPI STATE (2-4 SU/2-4 ATS) at AUBURN (4-2 SU/3-2 ATS)
Mississippi State won for the second consecutive week with a 35-27 home win over Memphis as -3 point favorites. QB Kevin Fant completed 16-of-34 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns, while RB Jerious Norwood led the ground attack with 85 yards on 22 carries. The Bulldogs won despite having deficits in total "O" (568-381) and first downs (29-18). 25th-ranked Auburn comes in off an impressive 10-3 win at 7th-ranked Arkansas last week as +4 point road underdogs. Carnell "Cadillac" Williams ran for 150 yards and a touchdown and QB Jason Campbell threw for 118 yards on 10-of-18 passing for Auburn, which has won four in a row after dropping its first two games of the season. For the game, the Tigers matched yardage with the Hogs with 278 total yards, while allowing Arkansas 278 yards as well. The SU winner in this series is 10-3 ATS the last 13 meetings and the 'dog is 5-2 ATS between these two squads when they play at Auburn. Last year, Auburn won 42-14 as -3 point road favorites. Mississippi State is on a current 4-12 ATS run and 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road affairs. Auburn counters with an 11-5 ATS run and are 8-2 ATS in their last ten SEC games. Mississippi State is also coming off three straight home affairs and the last formidable foe they faced resulted in a 41-6 home loss to LSU. Expect similar results in this one as Auburn is finally starting to live up to their preseason hype. Their two early losses in the season should have the Tigers totally focused in this one, who should have no problem moving the ball against Miss State's 113th-ranked "D" (allowing 474 ypg). Lay the points.
SELECTION: AUBURN -21
USC (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at NOTRE DAME (2-3 SU/1-4 ATS)
The 4th-ranked Trojans had little trouble with Stanford last week in a 44-21 home win and cover (-21). QB Matt Leinart completed 18-of-27 passes for 260 yards, including three first-half touchdowns to Mike Williams, who caught seven passes for 129 yards for the Trojans. USC who won their second straight game, extended their home winning streak to 12 games and became the seventh I-A school to notch 700 victories. LenDale White ran for 93 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries and Ryan Killeen kicked three field goals for USC, who outgained Stanford in total "O" (493-292) and in rushing yards (220-86). The Trojans also forced four turnovers in the game (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions). Notre Dame looked like a different team last week in a 20-14 win at 15th-ranked Pitt as +8 point underdogs. RB Julius Jones rushed for a school-record 262 yards and two touchdowns in the win, but QB Brady Quinn connected on just 5-of-17 passes for 33 yards and an interception for the Fighting Irish, who beat the Panthers for the 11th time in the last 12 meetings. Notre Dame dominated the game with edges in total "O" (385-175), first downs (14-9), rushing yards (352-8) and time of possession (36:46 to 23:14). USC is only 1-9 SU in their last 10 visits to South Bend, but come in 5-2 ATS the last seven trips to Notre Dame. The Trojans are on a current 12-5 ATS run dating back to last season and beat the Irish last year 44-13 as -11 point home chalks. In that game, the Trojans had a 610-109 edge in total "O". USC is 13-5 in their last 18 road games and 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games. Notre Dame is just 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games dating back to last year. Yes, Notre Dame is 11-2 ATS as a home dog and 9-2 ATS versus USC as a pick'em or a 'dog, but the fact remains that their offense still ranks as paltry 104th in the nation (297 ypg). Washington State moved the ball at will against the Irish in the season opener and expect USC to do the same. Lay the points.
SELECTION: USC -8
NAVY (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS) at RICE (1-4 SU/2-2-1 ATS)
Navy continued to roll last week as they beat Vandy 37-27 as +4½ point road underdogs. QB Craig Candeto racked up 160 yards through the air and 69 yards on the ground, threw for two scores and ran for two more and RB Kyle Eckel led the team with 115 rushing yards on 20 attempts for the Middies, who had edges in total "O" (502-373), first downs (29-22), rushing yards (342-146) and time of possession (36:53 to 23:07). Rice had a bye last week after beating San Jose State 28-24 as -4 point home chalks two weeks ago. QB Greg Henderson completed 10-of-13 passes for 110 yards, with a TD and an interception and also led the squad in rushing with 111 yards on 17 carries and a TD in the first win of the year for the Owls. RB Robbie Beck also added 85 yards on 19 carries for Rice, who was outgained in total "O" 412-407. Navy has the nations number-one rushing "O", averaging 303 ypg. In contrast, the Owls have a sieve rushing defense, as they rank 106th in the land, allowing 201 ypg on the ground to go along with their 95th-rated offense (321 ypg) and rank 113th in the nation in points allowed per game (37.6). Navy is 1-4 SU, but 4-0-1 ATS the last five meetings with the Owls and come in 15-5 ATS in their last 20 games played on artificial turf. In addition, the Middies are 4-1 ATS in their last five road games. Rice has not done well when facing Service Academies, going just 2-8 ATS when facing either Navy, Army or Air Force. This also a revenger for Navy, who lost 17-10 last year as +7 point home underdogs. Simply cannot trust Rice in this spot as they have already been stung for 40 or more points three times this season. Navy is the choice here.
SELECTION: NAVY -3
WASHINGTON (3-3 SU/1-4-1 ATS) at OREGON STATE (5-1 SU/2-3 ATS)
Washington was upset at home last week in a 28-17 loss to Nevada as -18 point favorites. RB Rich Alexis paced the Huskies in defeat with 120 rushing yards and a touchdown on 30 carries. QB Cody Pickett had a rough day, completing 19-of-37 passes for 337 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. Washington outgained Nevada in total "O" 389-381, but could not over come 5 turnovers. 21st-ranked Oregon State had a bye last week after beating California 35-21 two weeks ago as +1½ point road underdogs. QB Derek Anderson completed 18-of-27 passes for 224 yards and two TD's and RB Steven Jackson pounded the Golden Bears defense for the second straight year, rushing for 227 yards and two touchdowns on 35 attempts in the win for the Beavers. Last season, Jackson burned the Golden Bears for 239 yards on the ground. Oregon State dominated the game with edges in total "O" (493-237) and had edges in first downs (24-19) and passing yards (224-52). The only drawback for the Beavers was the fact they committed 13 penalties for 151 yards. The visitor is 10-4 ATS the last 14 meetings between these two teams. Oregon State has fared well week after a bye, going 9-2 ATS. The Beavers are also a very impressive 15-2 as a home favorites of less than -17½ points, while the Huskies counter with a 4-10-1 ATS run their last 15 games as well as 8-18 ATS as a Pac Ten traveler. Oregon State's Jackson currently ranks 2nd in the nation in rushing (146 ypg average) and should control the tempo of this game. Something is obviously wrong with Washington as they have dropped three straight ATS, including losses to UCLA (46-16) as well as last weeks shocking home loss to Nevada. Last year, Washington won 41-29 as +6 point home dogs despite a 420-199 deficit in total "O". Oregon State revenge prevails in this one.
SELECTION: OREGON STATE -10
OTHER GAMES OF INTEREST
Thursday, October 16th
CLEMSON (4-2 SU/3-5 ATS) at NC STATE (4-3 SU/2-4 ATS)
Clemson is off a thrilling 30-27 OT win at home over Virginia as +4½ point underdogs. QB Charlie Whitehurst completed 27-of-44 passes for 265 yards with two touchdowns and one interception and also ran for a score in the win. Kevin Youngblood finished with nine catches for 87 yards and RB Yusef Kelly rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown on 25 attempts for the Tigers, who outgained the Cavaliers 272-89 in the first half and carried the 10-point advantage to the locker room. Overall, Clemson outgained Virginia in total "O" 488-324 and had edges in first downs (29-17) and time of possession (34:11 to 25:49). NC State comes in off a tough 31-24 home win over Connecticut last week as -14½ point chalks. QB Philip Rivers threw for 234 yards with two touchdowns and also threw his first interception in 124 passes. Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay scored two defensive touchdowns, including a 56-yard interception return for a score with five seconds remaining to seal the win for the Wolfpack, who were outgained in total "O" 452-323. Clemson is 8-15 ATS the last 23 meetings with NC State, including 1-4 ATS the last five meetings. NC State comes into this one 4-9 ATS in the second game of back-to back home games and the visitor in this series is 5-1 ATS the last six meetings. Clemson lost last years meeting 38-6 as +2 point home underdogs.
ADDED GAME
NEW MEXICO STATE (1-5 SU/2-3 ATS) at UL-LAFAYETTE (0-7 SU3-3-1 ATS)
New Mexico State dropped a 35-18 decision at Middle Tennessee State last week as +3 point underdogs. The Aggies were led by Tony Joseph, who carried the ball 19 times for 115 yards. Paul Dombrowski completed 6-of-19 passes for 84 yards and was intercepted three times, while also scoring a rushing touchdown. Buck Pierce was a big improvement in replacement of Dombrowski, as he connected on 12- of-13 pass attempts for 123 yards to go along with a rushing touchdown. New Mexico State lost despite holding huge edges in total "O" (525-293), first downs (28-9) and time of possession (35:11 to 24:49). UL-Lafayette is coming off a 45-42 loss to UL-Monroe last week as -3 point home favorites. QB Erik Rekieta completed 33-of-54 passes for 474 yards and four touchdowns for UL-Lafayette, who fell to 0-7 on the season. WR Fred Stamps had a good game, catching eight passes for 198 yards and one score. It was an offensive shootout as Lafayette posted 524 yards of total "O", but their "D" allowed Monroe 537 yards of offense in the loss. New Mexico State is 2-1 SU but 0-3 ATS the last three meetings with Lafayette, including a 31-28 home win last season as -12 point chalks. The last two meetings have been decided by a combined 6 points.
Friday, October 17th
TULANE (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at LOUISVILLE (5-1 SU/2-4 ATS)
Tulane dropped a 45-42 home decision to Houston last week as +1½ point underdogs. QB J.P. Losman completed 25-of-34 passes for 264 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception. He also rushed for two touchdowns in the loss for the Green Wave, who were outgained in total "O" 539-380 and had deficits in first downs (34-25) and time of possession (42:57 to 17:03). Louisville is off a 34-10 non-cover (-31½) home win over Army last week. QB Stefan LeFors completed 19-of-28 passes for 406 yards and an interception and WR J.R. Russell had six receptions for 153 yards. The Cardinals outgained the Knights, 619-339 in total yards, including 208-97 on the ground. Tulane is just 2-7 SU and 3-6 ATS the last nine meetings with Louisville, but are 10-6 ATS in their last 16 games played on natural grass. Tulane also comes in on a 10-5-1 ATS run their last 16 games. The home team is only 3-6 ATS the last 9 meetings between these two teams. The Cards won the last meeting in 2001, a 52-7 romper as -11½ point road favorites.
Saturday, October 18th
BOSTON COLLEGE (4-2 SU/4-2 ATS) at SYRACUSE (3-2 SU/2-3 ATS)
Boston College beat Temple last week in a 38-13 road win as -9 point favorites. QB Quinton Porter completed 18-of-24 passes for 308 yards and three touchdowns, while RB Derrick Knight led the Eagles' ground attack with 158 yards on 21 carries. BC dominated the game with edges in total "O" (641-276), first downs (25-14) and rushing yards (309-83). Syracuse was pounded at Virginia Tech last week in a 51-7 loss as +17½ point road 'dogs. RB Walter Reyes, who came into the game averaging a nation's best 170.25 rushing yards per game, ended with just 40 yards on the ground and QB R.J. Anderson didn't fare much better through the air, completing just 8-of-23 passes for 91 yards. The Orangemen never got going offensively, posting just six first downs and 172 total yards in the contest, while allowing Tech 449 yards of total "O" as well as 155 return yards. BC comes in 9-3 ATS the week before playing Notre Dame and the favorite in this series is 16-3 ATS the last 19 meetings. Syracuse is 14-8 ATS the last 22 meetings with BC, but 1-3 ATS the last four years, including a 41-20 loss last year as +7 point road dogs.
PITTSBURGH (3-2 SU/2-3 ATS) at RUTGERS (4-1 SU/6-0 ATS)
Previously 16th-ranked Pittsburgh lost at home last week to Notre Dame in a 20-14 setback as -8 point favorites. QB Rod Rutherford had rough day for the Panthers, completing 12-of-30 passes for 167 yards with two touchdowns and getting sacked nine times. His two TD passes went to Heisman candidate Larry Fitzgerald, who caught five balls for 79 yards. It was a poor display for Pitt, who had deficits in total "O" (385-175), first downs (14-9), rushing yards (352-8) and time of possession (36:46 to 23:14). Rutgers is off a 34-19 loss at West Virginia last week, but covered as +18 point road dogs. RB Justise Hairston paced the Knights in defeat with 115 rushing yards and a score on 27 attempts, while QB Ryan Hart completed 17-of-28 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, but he was also intercepted twice. Rutgers was outgained in total "O" 441-292 and had a 254-114 deficit in rushing yards. Pittsburgh is just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 Big East Conference openers, but the visitor in this series is 5-0 ATS the last five meetings. Pitt won last years meeting 23-3, but failed to cover as -26½ point home chalks. Rutgers has done well in homecoming games, logging a 6-1 spread mark the last seven years and note Rutgers' 6-0 ATS mark this season.
ILLINOIS (1-6 SU/1-5 ATS) at MICHIGAN (5-2 SU/3-3-1 ATS)
Illinois travels to Michigan this week after getting pounded at home in a 4914 loss to Michigan State as +3½ point dogs. QB Jon Beutjer completed 19-of-27 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown, but was intercepted twice. Mark Kornfeld caught five passes for 66 yards and a score for the Fighting Illini, who have lost five straight and were outgained in total "O" 419-371. Illinois had a time of possession edge of 35:09 to 24:51, but turned the ball over three times (1 fumble, 2 interceptions). The Illini have dropped seven of their last nine games overall, dating back to last year. 17th-ranked Michigan silenced some critics last week with a remarkable 38-35 come-from-behind win at 13th-ranked Minnesota as -1 point favorites. QB John Navarre completed 33-of-47 passes for 353 yards and two TD's for the Wolverines, who trailed 28-7 heading into the fourth quarter, but rallied for 31 points in the final frame. Michigan was outgained in total "O" 495-483 and had a 424-94 deficit in rushing, but won the battle through the air with a 389-71 edge. Illinois is 16-5-1 ATS as a double-digit road dog and the visitor in this series is 10-2 ATS the last 12 meetings. Michigan is only 1-5 ATS as a home favorite when facing Illinois, but come in 3-1 ATS in their last four homecoming affairs. Michigan won last year's meeting 45-28 as -7½ point road favorites.
PURDUE (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at WISCONSIN (6-1 SU/4-3 ATS)
The 15th-ranked Boilermakers are off a 28-14 home win and cover (-11½) over Penn State last week. QB Kyle Orton completed 17-of-28 passes for 131 yards with an interception for the Purdue, who have won five straight games following a season-opening home loss to Bowling Green. Brandon Jones rushed for 149 yards and two touchdowns on 29 carries and Anthony Chambers returned a punt 76 yards for a touchdown and for Purdue, which defeated the Nittany Lions for only the second time in school history. Purdue dominated the game with edges in total "O" (350-204), first downs (19-13) and time of possession (37:24 to 22:36). 12th-ranked Wisky comes into this one flying high as they knocked off the very overrated, 3rd-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes in a 17-10 home win as +2½ point underdogs. RB Booker Stanley rushed for 129 yards and a score on 31 carries for the Badgers, who won their fourth straight game. Backup quarterback Matt Schabert came off the bench after starter Jim Sorgi was forced to leave when he suffered a throat injury in the third quarter. He responded well as he threw a 79-yard touchdown pass to Lee Evans with 5:20 to play to lift the Badgers to the win. It was a close game as Wisky held a 285-259 edge in total "O", but won the game on the ground with a 140-65 edge in rushing. Purdue has done well against Wisky in recent times, going 8-4 ATS versus the Badgers the last 12 meetings. The Boilermakers have also fared well on fake grass, logging a 16-8-1 ATS mark. Wisky comes in 4-2 ATS in their last 6 homecoming games. Last meeting was in 2000 with Purdue coming away with a 30-24 road win in OT as -5½ point favorites.
TEMPLE (1-5 SU/4-1 ATS) at MIAMI FLORIDA (6-0 SU/3-3 ATS)
Temple dropped a 38-13 home decision to Boston College last week as +9 point underdogs. Temple quarterback Mike McGann completed 14-of-25 pass attempts for 96 yards and was intercepted twice, while his replacement Walter Washington completed 12-of-22 passes for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Owls were totally dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (641-276), first downs (25-14) and rushing yards (309-83). The 2nd-ranked Hurricanes proved they belonged in the nation's elite last week with an impressive 22-14 win and cover at 5th-ranked Florida State as +7 point underdogs. QB Brock Berlin was 15-of-28 passing for 181 yards and a touchdown for Miami, which has won four straight against the Seminoles. RB Jarrett Payton ran for a career- high 97 yards on 26 carries and Sean Taylor had a 49-yard interception return for a touchdown, as Miami extended its regular-season winning streak to 38 games. Miami turned the ball over five times (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions) in the rain-soaked game, but also forced five Florida State turnovers (3 fumbles, 2 interceptions). For the game, the 'Canes outgained the 'Noles in total "O" 312-296. The Owls are 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS the last seven meetings with Miami, losing by an average score of 45-11. Last season Temple covered in a 44-21 home loss as +37½ point dogs, but prior to that they were 0-4 ATS against the 'Canes.
TEXAS TECH (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at OKLAHOMA STATE (5-1 SU/4-1 ATS)
23rd-ranked Texas Tech continued rolling last week in a 52-21 win over Iowa State as -16 point home chalks. QB B.J. Symons completed 45-of-65 passes for 487 yards and three touchdowns in the win for the Red Raiders. Symons, who missed throwing for his fourth straight 500-yard passing performance by 13 yards, also ran for two touchdowns. In the process, Symons broke an NCAA record for passing yards over a four-game stretch with 2,170 yards through the air. It was a total domination by Texas Tech as they held edges in total "O" (767-335), first downs (49-14), rushing yards (236-79) and time of possession (36:15 to 23:45). 24th-ranked Oklahoma State is coming off a big 38-24 home win and cover (+2½) over 22nd-ranked Kansas State last week. QB Josh Fields completed 12-of-21 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns, RB Tatum Bell rushed for 142 yards and two TD's and WR Rashaun Woods caught six passes for 119 yards for the Cowboys, who have won five straight games following a season-opening loss to Nebraska. The Cowboys came away with the win despite deficits in total "O" (478-377), first downs (25-19) and time of possession (31:19 to 28:41). Texas Tech has dominated this series, going 8-1 ATS the last 9 meetings with the Cowboys and the Red Raiders have averaged nearly 52 points per game the last three meetings. Oklahoma State is 7-1 ATS in their last 8 homecoming games and are playing with revenge from last years 49-24 loss at Tech as +9 point underdogs.
EAST CAROLINA (0-6 SU/2-4 ATS) at ARMY (0-6 SU/3-3 ATS)
East Carolina remained winless on the season last week in a 28-17 home loss to North Carolina as +9½ point underdogs. QB Desmond Robinson completed 13-of-17 passes for 122 yards and two TD's in the loss for the Pirates, who were outgained in total "O" 388-280. Army dropped a 34-10 decision at Louisville last week, but covered as +31½ point underdogs. Zac Dahman paced the Knights with 130 yards on 17-of-30 passing. Matt Silva also saw action at QB, completing just 11-of-25 pass attempts for 112 yards and three interceptions. Jacob Murphy hauled in five receptions for 49 yards for Army, which has now lost eight consecutive games dating back to last season. The Knights were outgained in total "O" 619-339 in total yards, including 208-97 on the ground. East Carolina is 6-0 SU and 4-2 ATS the last six meetings with Army and the home team in this series is 1-5 ATS the last six meetings. Last season was the exception as ECU romped to a 59-24 home win as -20 point favorites.
MARSHALL (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at BUFFALO (0-7 SU/1-5 ATS)
Marshall is off a 49-33 home win over Kent State last week, but failed to cover as -19½ point chalks. QB Stan Hill, who made his first start since spraining his knee on September 6th, completed 27-of-32 passes 392 yards and five touchdowns. Josh Davis had eight receptions for 144 yards and three TD's in the win for the Thundering Herd, who outgained Kent in total "O" 604-436 and had edges in first downs (28-19) and rushing yards (212-88). Buffalo was pounded at Miami-Ohio last week in a 59-3 loss as +35½ point underdogs. RB Dave Dawson led the Bulls in defeat with 104 rushing yards on 13 carries and QB P.J. Piskorik struggled all day, completing just 11-of-23 pass attempts for only 86 yards and an interception. Buffalo has lost 17 consecutive games, which is the longest current streak in the nation. The Bulls were totally dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (487-244), first downs (27-11) and passing yards (264-86). Marshall is 4-0 SU but only 2-2 ATS the last four meetings with the Bulls. outscoring them 206-52. Marshall has not fared well as a MAC traveler, going just 7-14 ATS in their last 21 conference road affairs. Buffalo has been outscored 165-68 in their last four homecoming games and come in on a current 3-10 ATS run in their last 13 games.
TOLEDO (4-2 SU/3-2 ATS) at CENTRAL MICHIGAN (2-4 SU/2-2 ATS)
Toledo trampled over Eastern Michigan last week in a 49-14 home win and cover (-27). QB Bruce Gradkowski completed 23-of-30 pass attempts for 289 yards and three scores for the Rockets in the win. Toledo outgained Eastern Michigan in total "O" 479-247 and held a 152-14 edge in return yards. Central Michigan comes off a 40-24 home loss to 16th-ranked Northern Illinois last week but covered as +18 point underdogs. QB Derrick Vickers completed 17-of-30 passes for 215 yards and a score for the Chippewas, but he was intercepted four times by the Northern Illinois defense. Terrence Jackson rushed for 90 yards and a score on 24 carries, while Kenan Lawhorne had both a rushing and receiving touchdown in the loss. Lawhorne rushed eight times for 34 yards and caught four passes for 34 yards. Central Michigan led 17-0 in the second quarter, but could not hold on for the win as they were outgained in total "O" 404-360. Toledo is 8-0 SU and 6-2 ATS the last 8 meetings with the Chippewas, but the home team in this series is 3-0 ATS the last three meetings. Toledo won last years game 44-17 as -14 point home favorites.
WAKE FOREST (3-3 SU/3-3 ATS) at DUKE (2-4 SU/1-4 ATS)
Wake was shocked at home last week in a 24-7 loss as -3½ point favorites. QB Cory Randolph paced Wake Forest in the loss by completing 14-of-29 passes for 135 yards and two interceptions. RB Chris Barclay led the Demon Deacons' ground attack with 124 yards and a score on 19 carries. It was a poor display for Wake Forest, who was outgained in total "O" 429-272 and had deficits in first downs (23-12) and time of possession (33:47 to 26:13). Duke hung tough last week in a 33-20 loss at Maryland as +28 point underdogs. QB Mike Schneider threw for 270 yards and a touchdown on 20-of-46 passing and Alex Wade rushed for two touchdowns and 65 yards, while Chris Douglas led Duke with 77 yards on 15 carries. The Blue Devils lost the game despite holding edges in total "O" (392-370), first downs (23-19) and time of possession (36:10 to 23:50). Wake has not fared well against Duke in recent times; logging an 8-14 ATS mark the last 22 meetings with the Blue Devils, including 3-7 ATS the last ten visits to Duke. Wake won last years meeting 36-10 as -11 point home favorites.
BAYLOR (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS) at KANSAS (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS)
Baylor was pounded last week in a 73-10 road loss at Texas A&M as +20½ point underdogs. QB Aaron Karas paced the Bears in defeat, completing 15-of-25 passes for 138 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Robert Quiroga pulled down a team-high seven balls for 74 yards for Baylor, which saw its three-game winning streak come to an end. Baylor was thoroughly dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (719-184), first downs (32-12) and rushing yards (437-32). Kansas put up a good fight last week in a 50-47 OT loss at Colorado, but covered as +6 point underdogs. QB Bill Whittemore led the Jayhawks in defeat with five total touchdowns. He completed 19-of-29 pass attempts for 422 yards and three touchdowns, while rushing for 61 yards and two scores on 17 carries. Clark Green added 87 rushing yards and a score on 15 carries and Mark Simmons hauled in six catches for 152 yards and a touchdown. The game was an offensive shootout with Colorado holding a slight edge in total "O" (596-567). Baylor comes in 3-6 ATS in their second straight road game. Prior to this season, Kansas was 0-10 SU and ATS at home versus Big 12 teams, but beat Missouri at home a couple of weeks ago to snap that streak. The home team is 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last three meetings between these two and the Jayhawks are playing with revenge after dropping a 35-32 setback at Baylor last season as +4 point dogs.
GEORGIA (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at VANDERBILT (1-6 SU/1-4-1 ATS)
8th-ranked Georgia blew out 13th-ranked Tennessee on the road last week in a 41-14 rout as -1½ point favorites. QB David Greene completed 22-of-27 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown and Georgia capitalized on four Tennessee turnovers in the win for the Bulldogs. Sean Jones returned a fumble 92 yards for a score just before halftime for Georgia, who won their fourth in a row over Tennessee and moved into first place in the SEC East division. Georgia dominated the game with edges in total "O" (414-248) and time of possession (36:19 to 23:41). Vandy comes in off a 37-27 home loss to Navy as -4½ point chalks. QB Jay Cutler completed 18-of-30 passes for 227 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in defeat for Vanderbilt, who had deficits in total "O" (502-373), first downs (29-22), rushing yards (342-146) and time of possession (36:53 to 23:07). Georgia is 5-0 SU and ATS the last 5 visits to Vandy and won last years meeting 48-17 as -25½ point home chalks. Vandy comes in an impressive 14-6-1 ATS as a double digit home dog, but are on a current 2-8-2 ATS run and the visitor is 10-1 ATS the last 11 meetings in this series.
ALABAMA (3-4 SU/3-4 ATS) at MISSISSIPPI (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Alabama beat Southern Miss last week 17-3 as -10 point home favorites. RB Shaud Williams ran for 170 yards and two touchdowns and QB Brandon Avalos completed just 3-of-7 passes for 12 yards and an interception in his first career start for Alabama, who ran for 243 yards and passed for just 12 yards. By contrast, Southern Miss rushed for only 17 yards and threw for 244 yards. Ole Miss comes in off a 55-0 pounding of Arkansas State last week as -25½ point home favorites. QB Eli Manning completed 23-of-36 pass attempts for 306 yards and three TD's, while WR Chris Collins was Manning's favorite target, as he caught eight balls for 146 yards and a touchdown. It was a game of dominance for the Rebels as they held edges in total "O" (582-235) and first downs (33-15). Alabama is 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS the last 8 visits to Oxford and 14-4 ATS the last 18 meetings with Ole Miss. The SU winner in this series is 17-2 ATS the last 19 meetings. Alabama won last years meeting 42-7 as -11 point home favorites.
FLORIDA (4-3 SU/3-3 ATS) at ARKANSAS (4-1 SU/3-2 ATS)
Florida pulled an upset last week as they beat 6th-ranked LSU 19-7 as +10 point road underdogs. QB Chris Leak completed 18- of-30 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns in the win for the Gators. Florida outgained LSU in total "O" 310-287 and held LSU to just 56 yards on the ground and also held an 18-14 edge in first downs. 11th-ranked Arkansas dropped a 10-3 home decision to Auburn last week as -4 point chalks. RB Cedric Cobbs had 78 yards on 16 carries and QB Matt Jones completed 13 of his 28 passes for 168 yards for the Razorbacks, who had 278 yards of total offense in the game, while allowing Auburn the same exact amount (278). Cobbs was held to fewer than 100 yards for the first time this season. Florida is 3-0 SU and ATS the last three meetings with the Hogs and 6-3 ATS in the second game of back-to-back road affairs. This will be the first meeting between these two squads since 1997.
MICHIGAN STATE (6-1 SU/4-3 ATS) at MINNESOTA (6-1 SU/5-1-1 ATS)
18th-ranked Michigan State pounded Illinois on the road last week in a 49-14 win as -3½ point favorites. QB Jeff Smoker completed 23-of-31 passes for 317 yards and two touchdown passes and also rushed for a touchdown for the Spartans, who extended their winning streak over Illinois to seven games. Michigan State outgained Illinois in total "O" 419-371 and forced three turnovers in the game (1 fumble, 2 interceptions). 19th-ranked Minnesota comes in off a heartbreaking 38-35 home loss to 12th-ranked Michigan as +1 point home 'dogs. RB Marion Barber III ran for 197 yards and one TD on 21 carries for the Gophers, who had their six-game winning streak snapped despite rushing for 424 yards. Barber also set the school record with 15 touchdown runs in a season. QB Asad Abdul-Khaliq ran for 106 yards and a touchdown on nine carries, but threw two interceptions, for the Gophers, who led 28-7 after the third quarter, only to get outscored 31-7 in the final stanza. Minny outgained the Wolves in total "O" 495-483, but had a 389-71 deficit in passing yards. Michigan State is 6-2 ATS in the second of back-to-back road games, but are only 3-7 ATS the last 10 meetings with the Gophers. The Spartans are playing with revenge from last years 28-7 home loss to Minny as -4½ point favorites.
MIAMI-OHIO (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at BALL STATE (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS)
Miami-Ohio pounded Buffalo last week in a 59-3 home win as -35½ point favorites. QB Ben Roethlisberger completed 18-of-24 pass attempts for 234 yards and threw four TD's in the win for the RedHawks, who have now won five consecutive games since dropping its season opener at Iowa. Miami-Ohio dominated the game with edges in total "O" (487-244), first downs (27-11) and passing yards (264-86). Ball State had a bye last week after beating Kent State 34-17 as +2½ point road underdogs two weeks ago. QB Talmadge Hill completed 16-of-24 passes for 164 yards and 2 TD's for the Cardinals, who were outgained in total "O" 365-302 and had a (21-16) deficit in first downs. Ball State capitalized on four Kent State turnovers (3 fumbles, 1 interception) in the game, as well. Miami-Ohio is 6-2 SU and ATS as a conference traveler the last two years and 4-2 SU and ATS versus MAC West teams the past three seasons. Last meeting was in 2001 with Miami coming away with a 28-20 road win as -6½ point favorites. The RedHawks also come in on a 9-4 ATS run in their last 13 games. The home team in this series is 7-4 ATS and Ball State comes in 3-0 ATS in their last 3 homecoming affairs.
HAWAII (3-3 SU/1-4 ATS) at LOUISIANA TECH (3-3 SU/3-2-1 ATS)
Hawaii is off a 55-28 home win and cover (-4) over Fresno State last week. QB Timmy Chang completed 40-of-60 passes for 353 yards, with no interceptions and had three of his five touchdown passes in the decisive second quarter and also became the 25th quarterback in Division I-A history to pass for 10,000 yards in a career. Chang has thrown for 1,659 yards in his five starts this season and has 10,274 yards for his career. The Warriors gained 549 yards of total offense in the game, compared to 382 for Fresno State. La Tech is off a 38-35 road win at UTEP, but failed to cover as -15 point chalks. QB Luke McCown completed 22-of-40 passes for 328 yards and two touchdowns, while D.J. Curry hauled in a team-high seven receptions for 113 yards and two scores. Ryan Moats had a solid game as well for the Bulldogs, finishing with 118 yards rushing and two scores off of 22 carries. La tech was outgained in total "O" 535-493, but held a 27-21 edge in first downs and a 108-9 edge in return yards. Hawaii is 9-6 ATS in their last 15 conference road affairs and beat La Tech 27-10 as +1 point home 'dogs in the only previous meeting between these two team in 2000. La Tech comes in just 6-12-1 ATS in their last 19 games overall and are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games.
NEVADA (4-2 SU/4-1 ATS) at TULSA (3-3 SU/4-1 ATS)
Nevada pulled off one of the biggest upsets last week as they went into Washington and came away with a stunning 28-17 win as +18 point road dogs. QB Andy Heiser completed 19-of-29 passes for 299 yards threw three touchdowns and WR Maurice Mann caught seven balls for 168 yards and a touchdown in the win for the Wolfpack, who were outgained in total "O" 389-381. Nevada capitalized on 5 Husky turnovers in the game (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions). Tulsa dropped a tough 27-20 decision at Boise State last week, but easily covered as +22 point underdogs. QB James Kilian completed 22-of-35 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns, but he did toss an interception in a losing effort for Tulsa. Romby Bryant recorded seven receptions for 148 yards and two scores for the Golden Hurricane, who were outgained in total "O" 363-339. Nevada is on a current 11-5-1 ATS run dating back to last season. Prior to this season, Tulsa was 5-15-1 ATS the previous two years, but come in on a current 9-3 ATS run in their last 12 games.
BOISE STATE (5-1 SU/1-4 ATS) at SMU (0-6 SU/1-5 ATS)
Boise State comes in off a lackluster 27-20 home win over Tulsa last week, failing to cover as -22 point favorites. QB Ryan Dinwiddie completed 12-of-26 passes for 199 yards and David Mikell ran for 139 yards and one score on 27 carries to lead the Broncos to the win. Tim Gilligan had a solid game for the Broncos, recording four receptions for 92 yards in the game. Boise State outgained Tulsa in total "O" by a narrow margin (363-339) and held a 164-110 edge in rushing. SMU is off a 35-14 loss at San Jose State last week as +8 point underdogs. QB Richard Bartel led the winless Mustangs in the loss, throwing for 198 yards and two touchdowns on 11-of-20 passing. RB Keylon Kincade ran for 91 yards on 27 carries, while Matt Rushbrook had four catches for a team-high 72 yards for the Mustangs, who were outgained in total "O" 448-267 and had deficits in first downs (22-11) and time of possession (36:35 to 23:25). Boise State is 7-2 SU and 6-3 ATS in their last 9 conference road affairs. SMU comes in riding a 2-8 ATS run dating back to last season, but are 11-8 ATS as a double digit underdog (1-2 this season). This will be the first ever meeting between these two teams.
BYU (3-4 SU/4-3 ATS) at WYOMING (2-4 SU/3-2 ATS)
BYU was pounded at home last week in a 58-13 home loss as +1½ point underdogs. QB John Beck was 10-of-22 for 136 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Cougars in the loss. BYU was totally outplayed in the game with deficits in total "O" (446-269), first downs (20-14) and time of possession (32:27 to 27:33). BYU was also hurt by four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions) and was outgained in return yards 136-19. Wyoming is coming off a 48-21 road win at Utah State as -2½ point road favorites. QB Casey Bramlet completed 13-of-24 passes for 211 yards and three scores and Derek Armah rushed for 123 yards and two scores on 22 carries for Wyoming, while also leading the squad with four receptions for 41 yards. Wyoming controlled the game with edges in total "O" (434-357), first downs (22-16) and time of possession (36:36 to 23:24). BYU is 6-1 SU, but a pathetic 0-7 ATS the last seven meetings with the Cowboys, including 1-4 ATS in their last 5 visits to Laramie. However, Wyoming is 0-3-1 ATS in their last MWC home openers - but are playing with revenge after last years 35-31 loss at BYU as +11 point dogs.
IOWA (5-1 SU/5-1 ATS) at OHIO STATE (5-1 SU/1-4-1 ATS)
9th-ranked Iowa had a bye last week after beating previously 11th-ranked Michigan 30-27 as +3 point home 'dogs two weeks ago. QB Nathan Chandler completed 17-of-34 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for a score and RB Fred Russell led the ground game in the win with 110 yards on 26 carries for the Hawkeyes, who beat Michigan at home for the first time since 1985. Iowa won the game despite having deficits in total "O" (463-295), first downs (18-14) and passing yards (389-195). The overrated Buckeyes (ranked 8th this week) had their 18 game winning streak (nation's longest) snapped last week in a 17-10 road loss at Wisconsin as -2½ point favorites. QB Craig Krenzel was 14-of-26 passing for 200 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Buckeyes, who had the nation's longest win streak halted at 19 games. Krenzel returned to the lineup after missing two games with an injury, but it wasn't enough as Ohio State lost in their first road game of the season. Ohio State was outgained in total "O" 285-259, as well as 140-65 on the ground. Iowa has not fared well when going against Ohio State, logging a 4-13 ATS mark the last 17 meetings and come in just 1-6 ATS the week after a bye. The Buckeyes come in 22-11 ATS as a single digit favorite the last three years. Last meeting was in 2000, with OSU winning at Iowa 38-10 as 19 point road favorites. Note Ohio State's 2-5-1 ATS run dating back to last season.
FLORIDA STATE (5-1 SU/4-2 ATS) at VIRGINIA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
The 7th-ranked Seminoles are off a 22-14 home loss to 2nd-ranked Miami-Florida as -7 point favorites. QB Chris Rix completed 20-of- 42 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns and WR P.K. Sam caught nine passes for 95 yards, while Willie Reid and Chris Davis each had a TD reception, for the Seminoles who were outgained in total "O" 312-296. Florida State had five turnovers in the game (3 fumbles, 2 interceptions), but also forced five Miami turnovers (2 fumbles, 3 interceptions) in the rain-soaked affair. Virginia dropped a 30-27 OT decision at Clemson last week as -4½ point road favorites. QB Matt Schaub was 33-of-48 for 271 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the loss. RB Alvin Pearman carried eight times for 35 yards and a touchdown and also caught four passes for 45 yards for the Cavaliers, who were outgained in total "O" 488-324 and had deficits in first downs (29-17) and time of possession ( 34:11 to 25:49). The 'Noles are 10-1 SU and 8-3 ATS the last 11 meetings with the Cavs, including 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last 3 visits to Charlottesville, winning by an average score of 40-10. Virginia comes in 7-1 ATS as a home underdog and are playing with revenge from last years 40-19 loss at Florida State as +26½ point dogs.
ARIZONA STATE (3-3 SU/1-4 ATS) at NORTH CAROLINA (1-5 SU/4-1 ATS)
Arizona State finally lived up to their preseason hype last week with a 59-14 rout over Oregon as +1 point home underdogs. QB Andrew Walter connected on 18-of-28 passes for 316 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions and Hakim Hill scored two rushing touchdowns in the victory for Arizona State, who outgained the Ducks in total "O" 496-286 and had a 24-15 edge in first downs and passing yards (338-127). The Tar Heels finally got in the win column last week with a 28-17 road win and cover (-9½) at East Carolina. QB Darian Durant completed 15-of-29 passes for 199 yards and two TD's and RB Ronnie McGill ran for 67 yards and a touchdown in the win for North Carolina, which generated 189 yards on the ground. Overall, North Carolina outgained the Pirates in total "O" 388-280. Arizona State comes in 1-5 ATS in their last 6 non-conference road affairs. North Carolina is a mere 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 homecoming games. Last year, NC beat Arizona State 38-35 as +8½ point road dogs as the two teams combined for almost 1200 yards of total offense.
TEXAS A&M (3-3 SU/1-5 ATS) at NEBRASKA (5-1 SU/3-3 ATS)
Texas A&M snapped a three game losing streak in fine fashion last week with a 73-10 pounding of Baylor as -20½ point home favorites. QB Reggie McNeal finished the game 9-of-14 for 199 yards and 3 TD's and ran for two more in leading the A&M Aggies to the east win. McNeal, while also rushing for 61 yards on eight carries. Courtney Lewis led the Aggies with 158 rushing yards and two scores on 12 attempts. Derek Farmer added 117 rushing yards on 11 carries for Texas A&M, who totally dominated the game with edges in total "O" (719-184), first downs (32-12) and rushing yards (437-32). 14th-ranked Nebraska suffered their first loss of the season last week in a 41-24 setback at Missouri as -7½ point favorites. QB Jammal Lord completed 12-of-18 passes for 146 yards with one touchdown and one interception for the Cornhuskers, who fumbled four times and committed five total turnovers. Lord ran for 111 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, while David Horne carried the ball 26 times for 119 yards with a score in the losing effort. Nebraska was outgained in total "O" (452-399) but held an edge in rushing (253-211). A&M is only 1-4 SU and ATS the last 5 meetings with Nebraska and come in 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games played on fake grass. Nebraska has done well in homecoming games, going 11-0 SU and 8-3 ATS the last 11 years. Nebraska won last year's meeting 38-31 at A&M as +5½ point dogs.
MISSOURI (5-1 SU/3-2 ATS) at OKLAHOMA (6-0 SU/4-2 ATS)
Missouri is coming off a 41-24 upset win over 10th-ranked Nebraska as +7½ point home underdogs. QB Brad Smith completed 13-of-27 passes for 180 yards with two touchdowns, rushed for three touchdowns and caught another, as Missouri shocked the Huskers in a game played in a quagmire. Smith ran for a game-high 123 yards on 18 carries and for the Tigers, who put an end to a 45-game losing streak against top-10 teams. Mizzou outgained Nebraska in total "O" 452-399 and recovered four Nebraska fumbles in the game, as well as grabbing one interception. Number-one ranked Oklahoma lived up to their top ranking last week with a solid 65-13 rout over 11th-ranked Texas as -6 point favorites in a game played at Dallas. QB Jason White completed 17-of-21 passes for 290 yards and threw four touchdowns to lead the Sooners. RB Renaldo Works rushed for 112 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries and WR Mark Clayton caught eight passes for 190 yards and a touchdown for Oklahoma, which turned five Texas turnovers into 24 points. Oklahoma dominated the game with edges in total "O" (552-327), first downs (25-17) and time of possession (36:23 to 23:37). Mizzou has not fared well against Oklahoma in recent times; logging a 3-16 SU and 6-12-1 ATS mark the last 19 meetings with the Sooners. Oklahoma comes in 9-5 ATS at home in conference games. Last years game was a struggle as the Sooners won 31-24 as -13½ point road chalks.
CALIFORNIA (3-4 SU4-3 ATS) at UCLA (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Cal had last week off after dropping a 35-21 home decision to Oregon State as -1½ point favorites two weeks ago. QB Aaron Rodgers had an ineffective outing in the loss, completing just 9-of-34 passes for only 52 yards and one interception. The 52 passing yards by the Golden Bears is their worst performance since tossing just 89 yards in a 21-17 defeat to Washington State on September 30, 2000. Cal was dominated the game with deficits in total "O" (493-237), first downs (24-19) and passing yards (224-52). RB Adimchinobe Echemandu was the only offensive standout for California, gaining 146 yards on 19 carries, with two TD's. UCLA barely got by pathetic Arizona last week in a 24-21 road win as -16 point chalks. QB Drew Olson completed 15-of-22 passes for 189 yards, with no TD's and one interception, while RB Tyler Ebell rushed for 61 yards and a score in the win for the Bruins. UCLA was fortunate to win as they had deficits in total "O" (499-327), first downs (21-16) and rushing yards (276-103). Cal has done well the week after a bye, going 9-3 ATS and are an impressive 12-4 ATS the last 16 meetings with UCLA. The Bears are 12-7 ATS under head coach Jeff Tedford and won last years meeting 17-12 as +3½ point home dogs.
W MICHIGAN (3-3 SU/3-2 ATS) at NORTHERN ILLINOIS (6-0 SU/3-2 ATS)
Western Michigan dropped a 32-21 home decision to Bowling Green last week as +9 point underdogs. QB Chad Munson threw for 330 yards and three scores in defeat for Western Michigan, who were outgained in total "O" (510-387) and had deficits in first downs (29-13) and time of possession (40:38 to 19:22). The 16th-ranked Huskies survived a scare last week in a 40-24 road win at Central Michigan last week as -18 point road chalks. RB Michael Turner rushed for 199 yards and two touchdowns on 28 carries and QB Josh Haldi was 14-of-23 passing for 147 yards in the win for Northern Illinois, who trailed 17-0 at one point in the second quarter. Northern Illinois outgained Central Michigan in total "O" 404-360 and capitalized on four interceptions in the game. W Mich is 5-2 SU but only 2-5 ATS the last 7 meetings with the Huskies. last season Northern Illinois won 24-20 as -2½ point road favorites. Northern Illinois enters this one on a 12-4 ATS run dating back to last season.
WASHINGTON STATE (5-1 SU/3-3 ATS) at STANFORD (2-2 SU/3-1 ATS)
The 6th-ranked Cougars had a bye last week after beating Arizona 30-7 as -32 point home favorites two weeks ago. QB Matt Kegel completed 18-of-32 passes for 315 yards and two TD's in the win for Wazzou, who posted their fourth straight victory since a 29-26 season-opening OT loss at Notre Dame. RB Jonathan Smith led the Cougars with 83 rushing yards on 20 carries. Washington State dominated the game with edges in total "O" (513-198), first downs (24-9) and time of possession (33:41 to 26:19). Stanford was punished last week in a 44-21 road loss at 9th-ranked USC as +21 point underdogs. QB Chris Lewis completed 11-of-21 passes for 89 yards and a late touchdown for the Cardinal, who lost their second straight game, while RB Kenneth Tolon ran for 52 yards on 11 carries. Lewis replaced Stanford starter Trent Edwards, who completed 11-of-19 passes for 67 yards. The Cardinal were dominated in the game by the Trojans, with deficits in total "O" (493-292) and rushing yards (220-86). Stanford was also hurt by four turnovers (2 fumbles, 2 interceptions). Wash State is only 3-8 SU and 2-9 ATS the last 11 meetings with Stanford, but 2-0 SU and ATS the last two years. The Cougars are also just 2-4 ATS off a bye week in recent times. Stanford lost last years meeting 36-11 as +8½ point home underdogs.
BOWLING GREEN (5-1 SU/3-1 ATS) at E MICHIGAN (1-6 SU/2-3 ATS)
Bowling Green is off a 32-21 road win and cover (-9) at Western Michigan last week. QB Josh Harris threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more and WR Cole Magner made 11 catches for 140 yards and two scores in the victory for Bowling Green, who completely dominated the game with edges in total "O" (510-387), first downs (29-13) and time of possession (40:38 to 19:22). Eastern Michigan was thumped at Toledo last week in a 49-14 loss as +27 point road underdogs. QB Chinedu Okoro completed 14-of-32 passes for 113 yards and one score, but also threw two interceptions in the losing effort for the Eagles, who were outgained in total "O" 479-247. Bowling Green is 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS the last five meetings with the Eagles, but are a meager 8-16 SU and ATS in their last 24 games played on fake grass. Eastern Michigan is 0-4 SU and ATS the week before a bye. Bowling Green won last years meeting 63-21 as -32 point home chalks in the last regular season game of the year.
CENTRAL FLORIDA (2-4 SU/0-5 ATS) at AKRON (4-3 SU/2-3 ATS)
Central Florida did not look good at all last week in a 28-0 road loss at Ohio as +3½ point underdogs. QB Jon Rivera completed just 7-of-20 pass attempts for 90 yards in the loss for the golden Knights, who had deficits in total "O" (390-110), first downs (20-8) and rushing yards (246-6). The game marked the first time that the Golden Knights were held scoreless since losing to Indiana State 38-0 in 1984. Akron had a breather last week in a 45-14 home win over Cal-Poly in a non-lined affair. QB Charlie Frye completed 12-of-19 passes for 195 yards and four TD's and RB Jerell Ringer rushed for 167 yards on 20 carries with a TD in the win for the Zips, who outgained Cal-Poly in total "O" 407-293. The home team in this short series is 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last three seasons. Last year, Akron won 28-17, but did not cover as -19 point favs.
TEXAS (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS) at IOWA STATE (2-4 SU/1-4 ATS)
The 20th-ranked Longhorns got whipped last week in a 65-13 loss to number-one ranked Oklahoma as +6 point underdogs in a game played at Dallas. QB Chance Mock started for the Longhorns, but threw an early interception before being replaced by redshirt freshman Vince Young, who did not fare much better. Young committed three turnovers of his own, two interceptions and a fumble, but ran for 127 yards on 15 carries and threw for 135 yards on 11-of-21 passing. Texas was completely dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (552-327), first downs (25-17) and time of possession (36:23 to 23:37). The Longhorns also committed 6 turnovers (3 fumbles, 3 interceptions) that resulted in 24 Oklahoma points. Iowa State was pounded as well last week in a 52-21 loss at Texas Tech as +16 point underdogs, sending the Cyclones to their fourth straight loss. QB Chris Love threw for 262 yards and two touchdowns on 15-of-29 passing, but Iowa State was dominated in every facet of the game with deficits in total "O" (767-335), first downs (49-14), rushing yards (236-79) and time of possession (36:15 to 23:45). Texas is 12-4-2 ATS the week after playing Oklahoma and come in 6-3 ATS versus Big 12 North Division foes the last three seasons. Iowa State is 0-4 SU but 3-1 ATS the last four meetings with Texas and come in 8-3 ATS in their last 11 homecoming games. Texas won last years meeting played in Austin, 21-10, but did not cover as -12½ point chalks.
OHIO (2-4 SU/2-3 ATS) at KENTUCKY (2-4 SU/4-1 ATS)
Ohio is off a convincing 28-0 home win and cover (-3½) over Central Florida last week. QB Austin Everson completed all four of his passes for 118 yards and ran for three touchdowns and threw for a fourth to lead the Ohio over the Golden Knights. Everson was Ohio's leading rusher as well, carrying the ball 21 times for 130 yards. Ohio dominated the game with edges in total "O" (390-110), first downs (20-8) and rushing yards (246-6). Kentucky is off a 27-21 loss at South Carolina last week as +8 point road underdogs. QB Shane Boyd, in relief of starting QB Jared Lorenzen, who left the game as a result of a helmet-to-helmet hit with a South Carolina defender, completed 7-of-14 passes for 81 yards with a TD and also led the team with 73 rushing yards on nine carries with a TD. Derek Abney caught five passes for 94 yards for Kentucky, who were who outgained by South Carolina in total "O" 339-327 and had deficits in first downs (20-18), time of possession (33:26 to 26:34) and return yards (102-3). Ohio is 2-0 ATS in two rare meetings with SEC teams and come in on a 7-3 ATS run dating back to last season. Kentucky is 7-4 ATS in its last 11 homecoming games and come in on an 11-5 ATS run dating back to last season.
COLORADO (3-3 SU/1-5 ATS) at KANSAS STATE (4-3 SU/1-4 ATS)
Colorado is off a thrilling 50-47 OT win at home last week over Kansas, but failed to cover as -6 point favorites. QB Joel Klatt led the Buffaloes by completing 38-of-54 passes for 419 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Klatt also rushed for a touchdown in the victory for Colorado. Brian Calhoun led the ground attack with 135 yards and a score on 24 rushing attempts. The game was an offensive display as both teams combined for 1,163 yards, with the Buffs holding a slight edge (596-567) and a 36-23 edge in first downs. Kansas State is off a 38-34 loss at Oklahoma State last week as -2½ point road favorites. QB Ell Roberson threw for 332 yards and four touchdown passes, but it was his three interceptions that proved costly for the Wildcats, who lost their third straight game. RB Darren Sproles rushed for 74 yards on 17 carries for Kansas State, who lost despite having edges in total "O" (478-377), first downs (25-19) and time of possession (31:19 to 28:41). The Buffs are 4-1 ATS the last five meetings with Kansas State and 6-3 ATS at Manhattan since 1987, but 1-3 ATS the last four visits. Overall, Kansas State is just 5-13 ATS the last 18 meetings with Colorado, but are 5-1 SU and ATS the week before facing Kansas. Last year, Colorado won 35-31 as -3½ point home favorites.
UAB (3-3 SU/2-4 ATS) at TCU (6-0 SU/2-4 ATS)
UAB is off a 31-14 home win over Cincinnati last week as +5½ point underdogs. QB Darrell Hackney connected on 12-of-21 pass attempts for 277 yards and two TD's and Roddy White finished the contest with four receptions for 171 yards and two scores for UAB, who have won two straight after a three game losing streak. RB Trey Chaney led the Blazer's ground game with 112 yards on 29 carries. UAB held edges in total "O" (382-319) and time of possession (34:53 to 25:07). 13th-ranked TCU is off a hard-fought 13-10 win and cover at South Florida last week as +2½ point underdogs. QB Tye Gunn completed 10-of-19 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown and Robert Merrill ran 22 times for 76 yards for TCU, who snapped USF's 21-game home winning streak with the road win. Cory Rodgers had three catches for 71 yards and a score and Reggie Harrell hauled in three balls for 52 yards, as the Horned Frogs ran their record to 6-0, the team's best start since going 7-0 to open the 2000 campaign. TCU's offense generated just 233 yards in the win, but their defense did a fine job in containing South Florida, allowing only 126 yards of total "O" and only 22 yards on the ground. UAB is 7-3 ATS as a conference road 'dog, while TCU counters with a 14-7 ATS mark as a conference home chalk. Last meeting was in 2001, with TCU winning 38-17 at UAB as +6 point underdogs. In that game, TCU allowed the Blazers just 20 yards on the ground.
UTAH (5-1 SU/6-0 ATS) at UNLV (4-2 SU/3-3 ATS)
Utah kept rolling last week in a 27-6 home win and cover (-8) over San Diego State. QB Alex Smith completed 17-of-22 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns and RB Brandon Warfield rushed for 133 yards on 23 carries for Utah. Paris Warren led the Utes with seven receptions for 104 yards and one score, while Steve Savoy contributed with four catches for 92 yards and one touchdown. Utah outgained the Aztec's in total "O" 415-252 and had edges in first downs (22-15) and time of possession (33:04 to 26:56). Utah trailed 6-0 at the half, but dominated the second half, scoring 27 straight unanswered points following the break. UNLV is off a 24-7 loss at Air Force last week as +7 point underdogs. QB Kurt Nantkes completed only 8-of-20 passes for 84 yards, while RB Larry Croom rushed for 91 yards and a score in defeat for UNLV, who were outgained in total "O" (324-250) and in rushing yards (261-166). Utah has had success against UNLV, going 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS the last seven meetings. Utah has outscored UNLV 163-56 the last three games played in Vegas and won last years’ game 28-17 as -10½ point home favorites.
MEMPHIS 3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at HOUSTON (5-1 SU/4-1-1 ATS)
Memphis lost at Mississippi State last week in a 35-27 setback as +3 point road underdogs. QB Danny Wimprine completed 32-of-60 pass attempts for 398 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions, while WR Darren Garcia caught four balls for 104 yards and Darron White grabbed 10 passes for 102 yards. RB DeAngelo Williams led the ground attack with 119 yards on 15 attempts for the Tigers, who lost despite holding edges in total "O" (568-381) and first downs (29-18). Houston comes in off a 45-42 road win at Tulane last week as -1½ point road favorites. QB Kevin Kolb completed 22-of-39 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns and RB Anthony Evans led the Cougar ground attack with 103 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries. Houston dominated the game statistically with edges in total "O" (539-380), first downs (34-25) and time of possession (42:57 to 17:03). Memphis is 2-4 SU and ATS the last 6 encounters with Houston and are only 3-6 ATS in the second game of back-to-back road affairs. Houston comes in 2-10 ATS in the first of two or more home games, but are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven games overall. Houston won last years meeting 26-21 as +5 point road underdogs.
NEW MEXICO (3-3 SU/2-3 ATS) at SAN DIEGO STATE (3-4 SU/2-3 ATS)
The Lobos are off a bye week after posting a 34-7 win and cover (-13½) over Utah State two weeks ago. QB Casey Kelly completed 13-of-22 passes for 230 yards and RB DonTrell Moore rushed for 132 yards on 30 carries and two touchdowns in the win for New Mexico, who outgained Utah State in total "O" (352-221) and held edges in first downs (22-14) and time of possession (34:28 to 25:32). The Aztec's dropped a 27-6 loss at Utah last week as +8 point road underdogs. QB Adam Hall completed 19-of-36 passes for 203 yards, but he had one interception and failed to throw a touchdown for San Diego State, which led 6-0 at the half, only to get outscored 27-0 in the second half. The Aztec's were outgained in total "O" 415-252 and had deficits in first downs (22-15) and time of possession (33:04 to 26:56). The Lobos 12-4 ATS the last 16 meetings with the Aztec's. Additionally, the 'dog in this series is 10-3 ATS and the visitor comes in 9-4 ATS the last 13 meetings. New Mexico won last years meeting 15-8 as -5 point home chalks.
ADDED GAMES
CONNECTICUT (4-3 SU/4-2 ATS) at KENT STATE (3-4 SU/4-2 ATS)
UConn hung tough last week in a 31-24 loss at NC State last week, but covered as +14½ point underdogs. QB Dan Orlovsky racked up 299 yards and three scores through the air and Chris Bellamy ran for a career-high 166 yards in defeat for UConn, who lost the game on a 56-yard interception returned for a score with five seconds remaining. UConn outgained the Wolfpack in total "O" 452-323 and had edges in first downs (24-21) and rushing yards (153-89). Kent State lost at Marshall last week 49-33, but covered as +19½ point underdogs. QB Joshua Cribbs led the Flashes in defeat by throwing for three touchdown passes and 319 yards on 15-of-31 passing. Cribbs also ran and caught a score in the loss, while rushing for 30 yards on 18 carries. Kent was outgained in total "O" 604-436 and had deficits in first downs (28-19) and rushing yards (212-88). UConn is 6-2 ATS when playing on artificial turf and come in on a current 20-7 ATS run in their last 27 games. Kent is 0-4 SU and 1-3 ATS when facing Division 1-A Independents and lost last years meeting with UConn in a 63-21 blowout loss as +6½ point road underdogs.
MID TENNESSEE STATE (1-5 SU/3-2 ATS) at IDAHO (1-6 SU/3-2 ATS)
Middle Tennessee State is off a 35-18 home win and cover (-3½) over New Mexico State last week. QB Clint Marks completed 9-of-12 passes for 208 yards and three touchdowns, while leading the Blue Raiders to their first victory of the season. Eugene Gross was MTSU's leading rusher with 102 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. the Blue Raiders managed to win the game despite deficits in total "O" (525-293), first downs (28-9) and time of possession (35:11 to 24:49). Idaho is off a 24-14 home loss to North Texas last week as +7 point underdogs. QB Brian Lindgren completed 23-of-41 passes for 402 yards and two touchdowns, but he also tossed an interception for Idaho, which dropped its sixth game of the season. Orlando Winston led the Vandals with 10 receptions for 130 yards and one score, while Jimmy Labita added five catches for 151 yards and one touchdown in the losing effort. Zach Gerstner ran for 111 yards on 24 carries in the loss for Idaho, who outgained North Texas in total "O" 402-307 but had a 245-92 deficit in rushing yards. MTSU is 0-2 ATS in two recent meetings with Idaho, losing last year 21-18 as -3½ point road favorites and winning 70-58 in 2001 as -19½ point home chalks.
UTAH STATE (1-5 SU/3-3 ATS) at NORTH TEXAS (3-3 SU/3-3 ATS)
Utah dropped a 48-21 decision at home last week to Wyoming as +2½ point underdogs. QB Travis Cox completed 16-of-35 pass attempts for 202 yards and one score, while also rushing for a score and gaining 22 yards on eight carries. RB David Fiefia gained 86 yards and one touchdown on the ground for Utah State, which fell to 1-5 on the season. The Aggies were dominated in the game with deficits in total "O" (434-357), first downs (22-16) and time of possession (36:36 to 23:24). North Texas won last week at Idaho in a 24-14 win as -7 point road favorites. QB Scott Hall completed 13-of-21 pass attempts for 105 yards and RB Patrick Cobbs ran for 249 yards and three touchdowns on 39 carries to lead the Mean Green to the win, which extended their Sun Belt Conference winning streak to 13 consecutive games. North Texas was outgained in total "O" 402-307 but had a 245-92 edge in rushing yards. Utah State is 4-1 SU and 2-3 ATS versus North Texas, but this will be the first meeting since 2000, when the Aggies won at North Texas 17-12 as -1 point favorites. North Texas enters this one on an 18-10 spread run in their last 28 games.
