PTF: Prediction Time Friday - Week 7

Happy Friday the 13th! Be careful out there, they're predicting an upsetting weekend with no ranked-vs.-ranked matchups. Will the big boys fall, or will the gap between the top and bottom widen a bit more?

2017 Record

Overall: 77-23 (.783 win %)
Last Week: 12-5
Game of the Week Pick: 3-3

*Rankings below reflect the AP Top 25

AP Top 10
Arkansas at 1 Alabama
Saturday, 7:15 pm ET, ESPN
Alabama -31.5

The Crimson Tide looked mortal last weekend. Texas A&M hung around long enough to make the Bama faithful almost nervous. That spells doom for Arkansas. Tide 55-6

2 Clemson at Syracuse
Friday, 7 pm ET, ESPN
Clemson -23
Clemson travels to Central New York for an all orange battle. Last season, the Tigers hung 56 on the board on a Friday night in Boston. Not sure this squad will get that high, but I'm anticipating a blowout. Tigers 45-14 

3 Penn State - BYE

Missouri at 4 Georgia
Saturday, 7:30 pm ET, SEC
Georgia -29.5
Georgia's Nick Chubb and Sony Michel are good enough that any quarterback could run the Bulldogs' offense. So far, Jake Fromm is playing well and he won't be tested by Mizzou. Dawgs 49-17

5 Washington at Arizona State
Saturday, 10:45 pm ET, ESPN
Washington -17.5
This one gets started late, much to the disdain of Chris Petersen. Washington shouldn't have any trouble, but the Sun Devils can score in a hurry. Other Dawgs 38-20

6 TCU at Kansas State
Saturday, Noon ET, FS1
TCU -6
With Jesse Ertz out, it feels like the Kansas State train is headed down the wrong tracks. TCU is looking to keep ahead of the rest of the Big 12 pack. Don't see this one being as close as the line predicts. Frogs 41-21

7 Wisconsin vs. Purdue
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, Big Ten
Wisconsin -17
Raise your hand if you can name Wisconsin's starting quarterback and running back. No one? Well, start paying attention to the Badgers. With an easy schedule the rest of the way, it's possible Wisconsin will reach the Big Ten title game undefeated. Badgers 38-14

8 Washington State at Cal
Friday, 10:30 pm ET, ESPN

Washington State -15
Luke Falk and the Cougars were impressive in the second half at Oregon. The more folks doubt Mike Leach, the better Wazzu seems to play. A late Friday night in NoCal might be hazardous to some, but not this team. Washington State's defense is surprisingly good. Cougars 42-24

9 Ohio State at Nebraska
Saturday, 7:30 pm ET, FS1

Ohio State -24.5

Oh look, Ohio State is scoring points against the bottom of the Big Ten. The Buckeyes are back in the Top 10 by default. As long as JT Barrett and company don't have to face teams with a pulse, take OSU big. Buckeyes 45-17

10 Auburn at LSU
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, CBS
Auburn -7
The Tigers versus the Tigers. Since not scoring a TD at Clemson and struggling with Mercer, the Auburn offense has found its rhythm. The Bayou Bengals are hard to figure out. Get blown out by Mississippi State (who since has been labeled a fraud), squeak by Syracuse (who lost to Middle Tennessee State), lose at home to Troy (who lost Wednesday to South Alabama), then beat Florida in the Swamp. War Eagle 31-10

Must Watch
Georgia Tech at 11 Miami
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, ABC
Miami -5.5
Miami was dealt a big blow with starting running back Mark Walton's injury putting him out the rest of the year. The Canes finally picked up an emotional win at Florida State and now must prove they can prevent a letdown. Georgia Tech is right in the thick of the ACC Coastal race. The winner here has the inside track to the division title. Canes 35-30

GAME OF THE WEEK

It's known as "The Split" 'round these parts.
Burnt orange and Crimson split the Cotton Bowl at the 50-yard line.

12 Oklahoma vs. Texas (Cotton Bowl, Dallas, Texas)
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, ESPN
Oklahoma -8
With the Texas State Fair as its familiar backdrop, the Red River Showdown is second to none. Oklahomans hate Texas and the hate is reciprocated south of the Red River. A new era begins as Texas' Tom Herman and OU's Lincoln Riley etch their names in the books of this historic rivalry. Herman has been known to have his teams play up to their opponents and freshman quarterback Sam Ehlinger has taken the reins under center. The Horns are 2-0 in conference play with back-to-back weeks against OU and Oklahoma State. A win over their crimson-colored rivals would signal the official "TEXAS BACK, Y'ALL!" However, Baker Mayfield and the Sooners are licking their wounds from a humbling loss to Iowa State. So far, OU has allowed 79 points in two Big 12 games, a far cry from the defensive effort put up in Columbus against the Buckeyes. Oklahoma is out to prove the ISU loss was a fluke. Make sure you're tuned in for this one. Sooners 41-37

Utah at 13 USC
Saturday, 8 pm ET, ABC
USC -13
Utah suffered a heart-breaking loss last week at home to Stanford, which put a damper on this game. Now, both teams have a loss to a North Division foe. Still, this Pac-12 South battle will give the winner a leg up in the division. Sam Darnold needs a big game to restore his credibility. Utah just needs to bounce back after giving up 152 yards to Heisman candidate Bryce Love. In the Coliseum, the Trojans have the slight edge. Trojans 31-23

Keep An Eye On
24 Texas Tech at West Virginia
Saturday, Noon ET, ESPNU
West Virginia -3.5
Texas Tech has improved ever-so-slightly defensively, but the Red Raiders are not close to respectable on that side of the ball. West Virginia came close to taking down TCU last week. The Mountaineers love early home games against their Big 12 brethren, all of whom reside in Central Time. Mountaineers 45-37

Oregon at 23 Stanford
Saturday, 11 pm ET, FS1
Stanford -10.5
The good ole days of Stanford and Oregon being must-see Pac-12 action are gone. The Cardinal seem to be holding up their end of the bargain at 3-1 in the conference. The Ducks are 1-2 with this one and road games at UCLA and Washington still to come. Stanford's Love will be the difference maker and continues his march to the Heisman. Cardinal 30-20

-BtW

PTF: Prediction Time Friday - Week 5

BENched took a few chances and they went awry. It's early in the season, so that was expected. You live and learn and move forward. Going to try something a little different this week with the picks. Let's do it!

2017 Record

Overall: 55-16 (.775 win %)
Last Week: 9-8
Game of the Week Pick: 2-2

*Rankings below reflect the AP Top 25

AP Top 10
Ole Miss at 1 Alabama
Saturday, 9 pm ET, ESPN
Alabama -27

Remember when the Rebels were a thorn in Nick Saban's side? They won't be again for a long, long time. Tide 51-12

GAME OF THE WEEK

Can the Tigers survive Lane Stadium?

2 Clemson at 12 Virginia Tech
Saturday, 8 pm ET, ABC
Clemson -7.5
We've arrived at the exact week of the season when I picked against Clemson one year ago. I took Louisville to down the Tigers last season. Fortunately, I was wrong. A year later, you'd think I'd've learned my lesson. I simply feel like this Hokie team is different. Yes, Josh Jackson is a freshman quarterback going against the best defensive line in the country. Yes, Clemson is battle-tested, having already defeated two Top-15 teams. Yes, Kelly Bryant played cool, calm, and collected in his first road start. But something feels much different than two weeks ago at Louisville. Maybe I'm being too pessimistic about my team. I don't have an Xs and Os breakdown of why I think Virginia Tech will win. To be honest, Clemson making it through September 4-1 would be a really good thing. If they are 5-0 after Saturday night, we could really be in for Bama-Clemson III. For now, I'll pull the reins back. Hokies 20-17

(NOTE: After I typed this Thursday evening, I received my IPTAY package in the mail Friday afternoon and am having serious second thoughts. Perhaps that was a good omen? We'll see.)

3 Oklahoma - BYE

Indiana at 4 Penn State
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, Big Ten
Penn State -18
It would not be surprising to see Penn State have a bit of a hangover following last week's thrilling win at Iowa. Getting Indiana at home for that hangover game helps. Lions 31-16

5 USC at 16 Washington State
Friday, 10:30 pm ET, ESPN
USC -5
I'm sensing either a wild shootout on the Palouse or a Friday night stinker. Wazzu is the trendy pick. I like Luke Falk slightly more than Sam Darnold right now. Statistically, Falk's having a much better season than the guy that's getting the Heisman love. I'm just not convinced the Cougs are ready to show out in primetime. Trojans 38-28

6 Washington at Oregon State
Saturday, 8 pm ET, Pac-12
Washington -26.5
Can't see this one being much of a game. The Huskies took it to Colorado last week. Expect even worse for the Beavs. Dawgs 52-7

7 Georgia at Tennessee
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, CBS
Georgia -7.5
The Georgia-Tennessee game has been decided by eight points or less each of the past six years. Expect it to be close. Tennessee is winless in its last 24 games against teams ranked in the Top 10 since 2008. Expect Georgia to make it 0-25. Other Dawgs 34-27

8 Michigan - BYE

9 TCU - BYE

Northwestern at 10 Wisconsin
Saturday, Noon ET, ABC
Wisconsin -14.5
Somehow, this game will be low scoring and close because Big Ten football. Badgers 21-9

Must Watch
14 Miami at Duke
Friday, 7 pm ET, ESPN
Miami -6.5
Get your weekend started with an enticing matchup between two undefeated ACC Coastal schools. The Hurricanes found new life in the second half last week against Toledo. Duke used a balanced attack to knock off rival North Carolina. Both teams are looking to get a leg up in the standings. As much as I'd like to pick Duke and think David Cutcliffe has this team squarely in contention, Miami has too many weapons. Canes 34-20

15 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech
Saturday, 8pm ET, Fox
Oklahoma State -10.5
It seems like no matter what, Oklahoma State can't lose to Texas Tech. A night game in Lubbock is no cakewalk, though. Tortillas will be flying as will the football through the air. I'm guessing this one will be pretty high-scoring. Get your popcorn ready. Pokes 58-45

Keep An Eye On
Florida State at Wake Forest
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, ABC
Florida State -7.5
How odd is it that we have winless Florida State visiting undefeated Wake Forest? FSU's troubles are highly concerning. No one can block up front and I wasn't overly impressed with freshman quarterback James Blackman. Wake may be able to get a steal here, but I'm sticking with the Noles to finally get a W. Noles 27-20

24 Mississippi State at 13 Auburn
Saturday, 6 pm ET, ESPN
Auburn -9
So maybe Mississippi State isn't that good after all. And maybe Auburn's offense just needed to be completely healthy. Either way, this one could get ugly on the Plains. Auburn 40-17

Cal at Oregon
Saturday, 10:30 pm ET, FS1
Oregon -15
Cal took USC to the brink and Oregon had trouble stopping Arizona State. It is full-on #Pac12AfterDark in Eugene. Ducks 45-42

-BtW

The Morning After - Putting the D back in Death Valley

Saturday started with overtime amidst the corn between Iowa-Iowa State and finished with triple-OT on the Palouse between Washington State-Boise State. What a great day of college football that gave us a small sample of what to expect this season. Chaos. Fun. And more of those "WOW" moments.

1st Quarter

Clemson's defense stuffed Auburn's ground game,
holding the SEC Tigers to 42 yards.
(Photo courtesy Clemson Athletics)

If you needed proof that Clemson is more like Alabama than anyone else, I hope you watched the Tigers sack Auburn. Eleven times. Clemson's defense is elite and it is what will carry Clemson all season. I mentioned during preseason that Clemson wouldn't win a lot of 35-31 type games, but more on the 17-14 side. Here we are. Clemson gets two quarterback rushing touchdowns and allows 117 yards to Auburn in a 14-6 slobber-knocker. Kelly Bryant has his work cut out for him, but FSU aside, there won't be a better defense he faces all year. By the team the Noles come to Death Valley mid-November, it's believable that Bryant and the Clemson offense could be humming.

As for Clemson's D, this marks the third game in the last four it hasn't allowed a touchdown dating to the 31-0 shutout of Ohio State in last season's Fiesta Bowl. Austin Bryant isn't a household name like Clelin Ferrell, Dexter Lawrence, or Christian Wilkins, but he racked up four of Clemson's 11 sacks. Tre Lamar isn't Kendall Joseph or Dorian O'Daniel, but his impact was felt. As was K'Von Wallace's who filled in for the injured starter Van Smith. It's been a next man up mentality for the past few years. The difference is Clemson is recruiting more talented players every year.

The Tigers now face the defending Heisman Trophy winner in Lamar Jackson. This defense against that guy? Get your popcorn ready. Beat Louisville.

2nd Quarter
Oklahoma made THE statement win of the weekend over THE Ohio State University. Baker Mayfield was terrific at the Horseshoe and made it well-known that he was not pleased with his team's performance a year ago in this game. Mayfield finished 27-35 for 386 yards and three touchdowns, adding his name to the top of the early season Heisman contenders. What impressed me most about this game, though, was Oklahoma's defense. The Sooners showed out and proved a lot of folks wrong, including me. I don't think JT Barrett is a good quarterback and the Buckeyes have plenty of issues on offense, but OU has had defensive issues for several seasons. Saturday night in Columbus, they looked like a Playoff-caliber unit.

I was also extremely impressed with the adjustments Lincoln Riley made at halftime. This game was 3-3 at the intermission and OU was moving the ball between the 20s. They couldn't find a way to get points, though. That changed after Ohio State scored to make it 10-3 early in the third quarter. OU went on a 28-6 run the rest of the game. In-game adjustments define championship teams. Riley passed his first big test against the great Urban Meyer. The Sooners will likely be favored the rest of the way now and that Nov. 4 date in Stillwater is going to be must-see TV.

3rd Quarter

Despite a big day on the ground from Stanford's Bryce Love (17 carries, 160 yards and a TD), USC dominated the Cardinal to solidify its status atop the polls and the Pac-12. Quarterback Sam Darnold had a big day in the win. He went 21-26 for 316 yards and four TD passes. The Trojans also found a running game with two rushers going over 100 yards - Stephen Carr 11 carries for 119; Ronald Jones 23 for 116 and two scores. USC was 10-for-12 on third downs and amassed 623 yards of offense. This was the USC team that won its final nine games of 2016 and could very well be on its way to an undefeated season if it continues to play like that the rest of the way. That's a scary team out in LA.

4th Quarter

Freshman quarterback Jake Fromm out-performed expectations for Georgia on the road at Notre Dame. Fromm did just enough to give the Bulldogs a win in South Bend (or was it North Athens? Sheesh, there was a lot of red and black). He passed for 141 yards and a touchdown, but still looked like a freshman at times playing in a big road game. He turned the ball over twice, but overcame the mistakes to lead UGA down the field when it needed it most. As for Notre Dame, Brian Kelly could be on the final leg. Notre Dame isn't showing any signs of being an elite team and Kelly is showing his true colors in his press conference. Not a good look for the prestigious Catholic university.

Overtime

South Carolina's Deebo Samuel was at it again with another kick return for a score and two more rushing TDs as the Gamecocks continue to impress early on. South Carolina could very well be 4-0 heading into a late-September matchup at Texas A&M. The way the Aggies are looking, that could put Will Muschamp's team one win from bowl eligibility before October arrives. ... If anyone is going to give Oklahoma and Oklahoma State trouble in the Big 12, it'll be a team in purple. TCU and Kansas State look like that next tier of teams ready to contend with the big boys. The Horned Frogs struggled to put away Arkansas, but ended up with a 21-point win on the road. K-State has scored 55 points in back-to-back games against weak competition, but the Wildcats may be for real. We'll find out more when they travel to Vanderbilt this weekend. ... Oregon held on for a big win over Nebraska, 42-35, after leading 42-14 at halftime. The Ducks went into prevent offense mode for much of the second half. Nebraska tried to do its best Josh Rosen/UCLA impression, but came up short. That's a big win for Willie Taggart early in his Oregon career. ... Penn State absolutely dominated in-state rival Pitt. And then head coach James Franklin dominated Pitt in the postgame, saying Pitt's win against PSU last year was like their Super Bowl, but this was more like PSU beating Akron. Savage. ... It's clear that the rich keep getting richer - Alabama, Clemson, USC, Oklahoma, Penn State, etc. But the poor are getting poorer, as far as Power 5 bottom feeders go.

ACC - Syracuse lost to Middle Tennessee State; Virginia lost to Indiana

Big 12 - Kansas lost to Central Michigan; Baylor lost to UTSA

Big Ten - Rutgers lost to Eastern Michigan

Pac-12 - Arizona lost to Houston; Oregon State lost to Minnesota (48-14)

SEC - No losses, but Kentucky, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M struggled with Eastern Kentucky, UT-Martin, and Nicholls, respectively.

When it comes to the "top to bottom" argument, there's not a P5 conference out there that can win that. 

Tiger Tweets

Bout that time...#Clemson pic.twitter.com/Ikf7ZQ72l6

— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) September 9, 2017

There's nothing like a night game in Death Valley.

Get to ESPN! pic.twitter.com/OBmUfRkiE0

— ESPN (@espn) September 9, 2017

C-L-E-M-S-O-N!!! 🐾🐅#ALLIN #Clemson pic.twitter.com/Xl75DUjF0H

— Clemson University (@ClemsonUniv) September 9, 2017

Kelly Bryant back.

— Grace Raynor (@gmraynor) September 10, 2017

Deon Cain with a momentum-changing catch vs. Auburn #Clemson https://t.co/OAeQ8IM70P pic.twitter.com/bojQr3W8gc

— TigerNet.com (@ClemsonTigerNet) September 10, 2017

Deon Cain is a freak

— Dr. Saturday (@YahooDrSaturday) September 10, 2017

Every time Hunter Renfrow catches a pass is the loudest you will hear Death Valley. Mostly because every catch he reels in is a big one

— Marcel Louis-Jacques (@Marcel_LJ) September 10, 2017

Ray-Ray McCatch

— Alex Maminakis (@alexmaminakis) September 10, 2017

Suddenly, Kelly Bryant is 11-16 passing for 104 yards. #Clemson

— Alex Maminakis (@alexmaminakis) September 10, 2017

K Boogie finds the end zone!!

Clemson 7, Auburn 6 // 2Q 0:35 pic.twitter.com/Jq33lrnCRF

— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) September 10, 2017

That boy @KellyB125 showing that grown man strength

— Artavis Scott (@ArtavisScott) September 10, 2017

Jarrett Stidham starting to look like a QB playing in his first full game in a hostile environment. Six sacks will do that to you

— Marcel Louis-Jacques (@Marcel_LJ) September 10, 2017

BRENT VENABLES IS A GOD

— Shakin the Southland (@STSouthland) September 10, 2017

It's lit. pic.twitter.com/jnU1QoB1yZ

— Alex Maminakis (@alexmaminakis) September 10, 2017

Eight sacks for Clemson tonight. The most in a game for the ACC Tigers since 2004.

— Grace Raynor (@gmraynor) September 10, 2017

How much fun is this Clemson D vs Lamar Jackson gonna be next week? pic.twitter.com/MRmhYCvKlK

— #DaHale (@DavidHaleESPN) September 10, 2017

My remote control is on 🔥

— Tim Brando (@TimBrando) September 10, 2017

Jarrett Stidham is wondering where a Big 12 defense is when you need one

— David Hood (@MDavidHood) September 10, 2017

I get that Auburn needs the ball back to win this game but HASN'T JARRETT STIDHAM BEEN THROUGH ENOUGH

— Rodger Sherman (@rodger_sherman) September 10, 2017

Hey hey hey, gooooodbye

— Shakin the Southland (@STSouthland) September 10, 2017

Boy I can't wait to play on this defense in front of these fans 🐅

— Xavier Thomas 1️⃣9️⃣ (@atxlete) September 10, 2017

That 2-0 feeling... 😁#ALLIN 🐅🐾 pic.twitter.com/0i3f5561Cj

— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) September 10, 2017

First quarter total yards:
Auburn - 99
Clemson - 6

Next 3 quarters:
Clemson - 277
Auburn - 18

— Kerry Miller (@kerrancejames) September 10, 2017

In the last 36 months, Clemson has beaten Alabama, Ohio State, Oklahoma twice, Auburn twice, FSU twice. Dabo remains criminally underrated

— Aaron Torres (@Aaron_Torres) September 10, 2017

*cough* Clemson allowed more yards against Kent State than it allowed against Auburn. *cough*

— Shakin the Southland (@STSouthland) September 10, 2017

-BtW

PTF: Prediction Time Friday - Week 2

Time for some more predictions! This weekend packs a big punch with great action all day and late into the night. Pour a cup or two of coffee and expect to be up late Saturday night. On with the picks!

2017 Record

Overall: 17-2 (.895 win %)
Game of the Week Pick: 1-0

*Rankings below reflect the AP Top 25

AP Top 10
Fresno State at 1 Alabama
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, ESPN2
Alabama -43.5

Alabama gets a chance to work on its offense with Fresno State in town. What will be interesting is if Jalen Hurts continues to struggle throwing the ball. Freshman Tua Tagovailoa impressed during the spring game and will likely get his first chance at live action on Saturday. Could quarterback controversy begin brewing in Tuscaloosa? Tide 48-0

GAME OF THE WEEK

The QB battle between Baker Mayfield and JT Barrett
is a dandy in the marquee game of the weekend.

5 Oklahoma at 2 Ohio State
Saturday, 7:30 pm ET, ABC
Ohio State -7.5
After getting thumped by the Buckeyes a season ago, the Sooners visit Ohio State with revenge on their minds. This is an intriguing coaching matchup with first-year coach Lincoln Riley against veteran Urban Meyer. Baker Mayfield looked terrific in the opener. Oklahoma appeared to find a few answers to who will step up at running back and wide receiver. Abdul Adams was shifty and quick out of the backfield. Jeff Badet and Mark Andrews are go-to targets for Mayfield. The question is, does OU have an answer for the nasty defensive front for the Buckeyes? The advantage lies with Ohio State's defense. I trust Mayfield more than JT Barrett, even on the road. But I believe the Sooners are behind on the defensive side. Barrett has plenty of speed around him and it will be tough for OU to keep up with the talented Buckeyes. Bucks 37-27

13 Auburn at 3 Clemson
Saturday, 7 pm ET, ESPN
Clemson -5
Kelly Bryant and Jarrett Stidham each get their first real test as new starters. Stidham has the tougher challenge going on the road in a night game at Death Valley. Both defenses are elite. Clemson will try to use its speed and chaotic backfield against a stout Auburn defensive front. Auburn has a more straight forward running game with Kerryon Johnson and Kamryn Pettway. However, Johnson suffered a hamstring injury last week and likely won't play, while Pettway was suspended and will get his first action of the season at Clemson. He'll be fired up, no doubt. But so will the Clemson defense, Clemson offense, and Clemson crowd. ACC Tigers 24-17

Pittsburgh at 4 Penn State
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, ABC
Penn State -21.5
The Nittany Lions are on a mission to prove many of the doubters wrong. The loss to Pittsburgh a season ago kept Penn State out of the College Football Playoff. Despite the weapons returning on offense, many have Penn State behind Ohio State in the Big Ten East. Before getting to the Buckeyes, PSU needs to avenge this loss. With Trace McSorley and Saquon Barkley leading the way in front of a raucous sold out, white out Happy Valley, Penn State gets it done big. Lions 44-17

14 Stanford at 6 USC
Saturday, 8:30 pm ET, Fox
USC -5.5
I've been back and forth on this one, mostly because of how good Stanford looked two weeks ago in the opener and how mediocre USC looked last week against Western Michigan. Bryce Love filled in the shoes left by Christian McCaffrey extremely well, rushing for 180 yards and a score on just 13 carries. Stanford had two weeks to prepare for this one and USC dropped in the polls after it struggled. However, this is destined to be an early Heisman campaign type game for Trojan quarterback Sam Darnold. If USC was simply keeping it vanilla last week and still scored 49 points, then watch out. Trojans 38-35

Montana at 7 Washington
Saturday, 8 pm ET, Pac-12
No Line 
Well, there's not much to say about this. Washington needed a big second half to put away Rutgers (yes, that Rutgers!). But the Huskies and Jake Browning are fine. For now. Huskies 55-10

Cincinnati at 8 Michigan
Saturday, Noon ET, ABC
Michigan -34
Wilton Speight nearly cost himself his starting job and Michigan the game last week against Florida. Speight was able to redeem himself and led the Wolverines to a big win over the Gators to open the season. Michigan steps back this week and should roll over a Cincy team that struggled with Austin Peay. Wolverines 52-6

Florida Atlantic at 9 Wisconsin
Saturday, Noon ET, Big Ten
Wisconsin -33
The Badgers looked good against Utah State. Scary good. Another ho-hum game means another big Wisconsin win. The only reason to tune in is to see Lane Kiffin exploding on the sidelines for the Owls. Badgers 49-13

10 Florida State - OFF
The Noles' game against Louisiana-Monroe was cancelled due to Hurricane Irma. Other games throughout the state and affecting teams from Florida have also been cancelled. BENched sends his thoughts and prayers to the people of the state of Florida as they brace for one of the worst storms to hit the US.

Must Watch
17 Louisville at North Carolina
Saturday, Noon ET, ESPN
Louisville -9.5
Lamar Jackson totaled 485 yards in a close win over Purdue and all he did was "hurt" his Heisman stock. Sheesh, people. The guy is electric. It's just a shame the team he has around him is just OK. Meanwhile, North Carolina lost at home to Cal, despite the Bears playing in the morning hours Pacific Time - I guess they didn't have an issue with their body clocks like Stanford did a few years back. I think this line might be a little too close and Jackson puts on another show ahead of Louisville's showdown with Clemson next week. Cards 41-24

23 TCU at Arkansas
Saturday, 3:30 pm ET, CBS
TCU -3
These two produced a epic finish last year with TCU storming back to force overtime, but the Hogs escaping Ft. Worth with a double-OT win. Now, the scene flips to Fayetteville. Kenny Hill threw four TDs and the TCU offense showed some major firepower, albeit against Jackson State. Likewise, the Razorbacks sleep-walked through their win over Florida A&M. BENched expects a shootout with the team with the ball last getting the victory. Frogs 47-42

Nebraska at Oregon
Saturday, 4:30 pm, Fox
Oregon -13.5
Oregon couldn't get out of its own way in Lincoln last year, failing several two-point conversions en route to a three-point loss. Under new leadership, the Ducks won't be quite as finesse in these type of games. Nebraska nearly coughed up its win last week against Arkansas State. Autzen Stadium is no easy place to play and Royce Freeman is eager to put his own name into the hat for early-season Heisman candidates. Ducks 40-27

15 Georgia at 24 Notre Dame
Saturday, 7:30 pm ET, NBC
Notre Dame -5.5
A fun one in South Bend as two historic teams face off for just the second time ever. The Dawgs will go with freshman Jake Fromm to lead the charge. Fromm steps in for the injured Jacob Eason. The youngster looked sharp in UGA's win over Appalachian State. Going on the road in the hallowed Notre Dame Stadium is a little different, though. The Irish will counter with a first-year starter themselves. Brian Kelly has given redshirt sophomore Brandon Wimbush the nod. Notre Dame crushed Temple to open the season. At home, under the lights, this one goes to ND. Irish 31-24

Utah at BYU
Saturday, 10:15 pm ET, ESPN2
Utah -2.5
The Holy War. One of the more underrated rivalries in football. BYU hasn't come close to looking good this season. The Cougars needed all four quarters to put away Portland State and then were blanked by LSU, 27-0. The Utes, meanwhile, have a quarterback in Tyler Huntley who took over for Troy Williams - last season's starter. Huntley's dual-threat ability will cause problems for many teams this year, starting with BYU. It's a late one, but this game tends to go down to the wire. You'll be happy you stayed up for the finish. Utes 23-20

Keep An Eye On
Iowa at Iowa State
Saturday, Noon ET, ESPN2

Iowa -3

Crazy things happen at Jack Trice Stadium. If you're looking for a little rivalry action early on Saturday, this one will do it. Iowa trounced the Cyclones last year. Can ISU turn the tables? Hawkeyes 34-28

Wake Forest at Boston College
Saturday, 1 pm ET, ESPN3
Even
No, this one isn't exciting. In fact, it's not even on TV! You'll have to pull up ESPN3 to find it. But the Deacs and Eagles generally produce close games and the winner will have some kind of momentum going in conference play. Remember, Wake Forest was in the division hunt mid-November last year. Deacons 20-14

South Carolina at Missouri
Saturday, 7 pm ET, ESPN2
Missouri -2.5
There could be points. Lots and lots of points in the battle of Columbias. Missouri and Drew Lock have already hung 70 on the board. South Carolina and Jake Bentley are on the upswing and took down NC State, scoring 35 points despite going against a tough defensive front. In between Ohio State-Oklahoma and Clemson-Auburn, check this one out. Gamecocks 48-44

Boise State at 20 Washington State
Saturday, 10:30 pm ET, ESPN
Washington State -10
Any chance to get to watch the pirate himself is great. Mike Leach has Washington State as a legit Top 25 program. Quarterback Luke Falk is the real deal. Wazzu will be out for revenge after falling on the blue turf last year. Cougs 37-31

-BtW

PTW: Prediction Time Wednesday - Bowl Season

Bowl season is halfway over, meaning we've finally reached the good games. With 40 bowl games plus a National Championship, nearly two-thirds of the teams in college football are awarded a postseason trip. That's simply too many games and BENched doesn't have the time to break down matchups like 5-7 North Texas vs. 7-5 Army or Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Southern Miss.

Instead, BENched jumps on board with the bowl games beginning today. There are 20 games to pick, so buckle up!

2016 BENched PT Record

Final Week: 6-1
Game of the Week Pick: 6-4

Overall: 123-55 (.691 win %)

*Rankings below reflect the CFB Playoff Top 25

Wednesday, Dec. 28
Pinstripe Bowl (Bronx, N.Y.)
No. 23 Pittsburgh vs. Northwestern (Line: Pittsburgh -4.5)
Pitt has been one of college football's toughest outs this season. The Panthers own wins over No. 2 Clemson and No. 5 Penn State. Pitt's offense is dynamic, but will be without offensive coordinator Matt Canada, who is now the OC at LSU. Northwestern lost to the upper half of the Big Ten and beat the lower half. It began the season 0-2 with home losses to Western Michigan and FCS Illinois State. James Conner is due for a big day in the Big Apple to send him off in style. Panthers 45-12

Russell Athletic Bowl (Orlando, Fla.)
No. 16 West Virginia vs. Miami (Line: Miami -2.5)
West Virginia's only losses came to the top two teams in the Big 12 - Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Both were by double-digits, so it's difficult to say exactly how good this 10-2 Mountaineer team really is. Miami, on the other hand, had two four-game winning streaks sandwiched around a four-game losing streak. The Canes have plenty of talent, but are lacking in the consistency department. It's a good, old battle between former Big East foes and should come down to the wire. 'Neers 33-28

Foster Farms Bowl (Santa Clara, Calif.)
Indiana vs. No. 19 Utah (Line: Utah -5.5)
Despite making a bowl game, Indiana fired coach Kevin Wilson. That should make you leery enough. Add in a pretty good Utah team that knocked off USC and took both Washington and Colorado to the wire, it's a recipe for a bowl game blowout. Utes 52-20

AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl (Houston, Texas)
Texas A&M vs. Kansas State (Line: Texas A&M -2.5)
The Aggies have a virtual home-field advantage playing at NRG Stadium in Houston. The atmosphere should be electric as both fan bases will fill it up as these two former Big 12 foes renew acquaintances. You never know when Bill Snyder's time will be up, but while he's still coaching with weeks to prepare for an opponent, old Bill has the edge. A&M should have a healthy Trevor Knight, but not sure that's enough. SnyderCats 31-27

Thursday, Dec. 29
Birmingham Bowl (Birmingham, Ala.)
South Florida vs. South Carolina (Line: South Florida -10)
South Carolina closed the season 4-2 with a win over Tennessee to reach bowl eligibility. However, the Gamecocks were non-competitive in losses to Florida and Clemson. South Florida's quarterback Quintin Flowers might be the best kept secret in college football. His dual-threat ability will give Will Muschamp nightmares. Bulls 41-21

Belk Bowl (Charlotte, N.C.)
Arkansas vs. No. 22 Virginia Tech (Line: Virginia Tech -7)
The Hokies are coming off a hard-fought loss in the ACC Championship Game against Clemson. Jerod Evans is one of two QBs to have 3,000+ yards passing, 25+ TDs, 500+ yards rushing and 10+ rushing TDs. The other to do that this season? Heisman winner Lamar Jackson. So yeah, Evans is pretty good and the VT offense runs through him. Arkansas struggled this year with uptempo offenses, but the Hogs can hang some points up themselves. A win for the Hokies would cap a tremendous first season by Justin Fuente in Blacksburg. Hokies 38-24

Valero Alamo Bowl (San Antonio, Texas)
No. 12 Oklahoma State vs. No. 10 Colorado (Line: Colorado -3)
Another game between a current Big 12 team and a former conference foe who left for seemingly greener pastures. Colorado is the country's biggest surprise. The blemishes for the Buffs were mostly due to losing quarterback Sefo Liufau against Michigan and Washington. Oklahoma State has two befuddling losses to Central Michigan and Baylor, but the QB-WR combo of Mason Rudolph and James Washington is dangerous downfield. The Pokes also found a decent running game with freshman Justice Hill and senior Chris Carson. It's a toss-up, but BENched is going with the coach-of-the-year Mike MacIntyre who has his team in a bowl game for the first time in 10 years. Buffs 28-27

Friday, Dec. 30
AutoZone Liberty Bowl (Memphis, Tenn.)
Georgia vs. TCU (Line: Pick 'em)
Can you figure these teams out? TCU, led by transfer quarterback Kenny Hill, could never find consistency, never winning more than two in a row and alternating wins and losses the last five games of the season. The Horned Frogs had a double-OT loss to Texas Tech at home, then beat Baylor on the road 62-22. The next three games were a 31-6 loss to Oklahoma State, a 31-9 win at Texas, and a 30-6 loss at home against K-State. Georgia was just as inconsistent with losses to Vandy and Georgia Tech at home, but a win over North Carolina to open the season and against Top 10 Auburn late in the year. No wonder it's a pick 'em. Georgia 24-23

Hyundai Sun Bowl (El Paso, Texas)
No. 18 Stanford vs. North Carolina (Line: Stanford -3)
Christian McCaffrey won't play in this game. Maybe that takes some shine off the Sun Bowl, but the matchup between the Cardinal and Tar Heels is a good one. Stanford came on strong after a slow start, scoring 41+ in each of its last three games and winning its final five in a row. North Carolina ended the season with a dud, falling to Duke and NC State in two of its final three games. The Heels were in line to possibly clinch a division title and reach 10 wins for the second straight season. How will Mitch Trubisky handle the Cardinal defense? The answer to that will provide the winner of this one. Trees 34-30

Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl (Nashville, Tenn.)
Nebraska vs. No. 21 Tennessee (Line: Tennessee -6.5)
The Vols were the most overrated team this season, entering with tons of hype and potential, but going just 4-4 in the SEC while playing the worst division in football (SEC East). Nebraska started 7-0, but was a bit of a fraud. The Huskers fell to Wisconsin in OT, then were shellacked by Ohio State 62-3 before the 30-point drubbing from Iowa. Both Tennessee and Nebraska fell flat against their rivals to close the season. Who will show up to end the year on a high note? Vols 28-23

Nova Home Loans Arizona Bowl (Tucson, Ariz.)
South Alabama vs. Air Force (Line: Air Force -13.5)
Like BENched said, there are too many bowl games. Look, we're glad the Air Force Academy gets to play in a bowl game, but a 9-3 Mountain West team against a 6-6 Sun Belt squad just doesn't get the meter going. Falcons 34-14

Capital One Orange Bowl (Miami Gardens, Fla.)
No. 6 Michigan vs. No. 11 Florida State (Line: Michigan -7)
Ah, that's more like it. Florida State's offense faces a stiff test against the Wolverine D. Dalvin Cook against Jabrill Peppers is the matchup to watch. And it will be a fun one. But the Seminoles are looking to go out with a bang on defense as well. FSU's defensive line anchored by Demarcus Walker will cause havoc in the Michigan backfield. The first New Year's Six bowl should be an instant classic. Noles 30-27

Saturday, Dec. 31
Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl (Orlando, Fla.)
No. 20 LSU vs. No. 13 Louisville (Line: LSU -3)
Lamar Jackson will get his chance to put on a show against one of the nation's stingiest defenses. LSU hasn't faced a dynamic quarterback like Jackson this season, but the Tigers will be eager to shut him down. When Louisville faced tough defenses, especially down the stretch, the Cards folded. Will it be more of the same, or will the lack of Leonard Fournette give Louisville the upper hand? Cards 24-17

TaxSlayer Bowl (Jacksonville, Fla.)
Georgia Tech vs. Kentucky (Line: Georgia Tech -3.5)
Ground and pound, that'll be the name of this game. Georgia Tech's option offense against Kentucky's SEC best rushing attack. Which defense can stiffen up enough times to get off the field? Give the edge to the Yellow Jackets for senior quarterback Justin Thomas. But don't count out the Cats who just took down Heisman winner Lamar Jackson on his home field. Mark Stoops and Co. have had a month to break down the Jacket attack. But that also means Paul Johnson has had a month to be even more creative. Bees 35-30

CFB Playoff
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl (Atlanta, Ga.)
No. 4 Washington vs. No. 1 Alabama (Line: Alabama -14)
There's no questioning the consensus No. 1 team in the land this season. But there are question marks about the quality of competition Bama has played. Finally we'll get our answer. Washington brings an athletic bunch and a stout defense to the Tide's backyard. Chris Petersen has a history of bigtime calls in bigtime bowls. Don't expect too much too soon from the Huskies, but if it's a tight one late there could be some trickeration in the ATL. However, BENched doesn't think Washington is there yet. Rome wasn't built in a day and this Bama team is loaded with studs. There's also that guy Nick Saban on the sideline, who arguably has his best team ever. Tide 34-17

GAME OF THE WEEK
PlayStation Fiesta Bowl (Glendale, Ariz.)
No. 3 Ohio State vs. No. 2 Clemson (Line: Ohio State -3)

Ohio State and Clemson meet in the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl
with the winner advancing to the National Championship.
(Photo courtesy CFB Playoff)

BENched will be providing an in-depth look at Clemson's Offense vs. Ohio State's Defense and the Tiger D vs. the Buckeye O over the next couple days. For now, we'll just say this: Ohio State's secondary is second to none, but the Buckeyes haven't seen the likes of Mike Williams, Deon Cain, Artavis Scott, Hunter Renfrow, Ray-Ray McCloud, etc. Deshaun Watson is also better than any QB the Buckeyes have faced and it ain't even close. On the flip side, Ohio State has more athleticism on the offensive side than Clemson has seen. Curtis Samuel and Mike Weber out of the backfield matched up with a linebacker and JT Barrett's legs could wear down the Tigers if they aren't able to get off the field. BENched thinks this might be the best bowl matchup in recent memory. Hold on to your hats for the prediction. That will come Friday night.

Monday, Jan. 2
Outback Bowl (Tampa, Fla.)
No. 17 Florida vs. Iowa (Line: Florida -3)
Florida's inept offense against Iowa's fickle self. The Gators won the SEC East, riding the defense all the way to Atlanta before being throttled by Alabama, 54-16. The most points Florida scored in its final six games was 24 in a win against Georgia. Iowa finished the season with three straight wins including the thriller over Michigan and a 40-10 blowout over rival Nebraska. But there were losses to North Dakota State and Northwestern along the way. Expect defense and not a lot of points. Gators 17-13

Goodyear Cotton Bowl (Arlington, Texas)
No. 15 Western Michigan vs. No. 8 Wisconsin (Line: Wisconsin -7.5)
What a fun one this should be (ROW THE BOAT!). Wisconsin might be the most unlucky team in terms of its close losses that could've turned its season into a magical one (ROW THE BOAT!). The Badgers have a seven-point loss at Michigan, a seven-point overtime loss to Ohio State, and blew a 21-point lead to lose by - you guessed it - seven to Penn State in the Big Ten title game (ROW THE BOAT!). Western Michigan turned in an impressive 13-0 season behind its infectiously optimistic coach PJ Fleck (ROW THE BOAT!). His catchphrases took America by storm and he always wants you to have an ELITE day (and to also ROW THE BOAT!). The talent gap between UW and WMU is sizable, though. Badgers 38-27

KEEP ROWING, THOUGH!!!

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Northwestern Mutual (Pasadena, Calif.)
No. 9 USC vs. No. 5 Penn State (Line: USC -6.5)
BENched isn't thrilled with the Committee's choice to move USC ahead of Colorado when the Buffaloes won the division and took a loss in the Pac-12 Championship. The way the Trojans finished the season, winning eight straight games, they are certainly deserving. But so were the Buffs. Aside from that, the Nittany Lions pulled off a miraculous season after starting 2-2 to win eight straight themselves. Penn State is a second half team, so the halftime score might not be an indication of how this game is going. PSU scored 38+ points in their final six games and were pretty salty on defense, too. USC scored 36+ in five of its final six, the lone exception a 26-13 win at Washington. It'll likely be a shootout in Pasadena. Trojans 45-35

Allstate Sugar Bowl (New Orleans, La.)
No. 14 Auburn vs. No. 7 Oklahoma (Line: Oklahoma -3)
At first glance, this appears to be a mismatch. A 10-2 Big 12 champion against a middling 8-4 SEC squad. Auburn dealt with injuries through much of the year, but should be healthy for the bowl game. Running backs Kerryon Johnson and Kamryn Pettway give the Tigers a two-headed monster in the backfield. Those two plus a healthy Sean White can put up points with the best of them. That's a dangerous thing for OU's feeble defense. The Sooners, though, boast two Heisman finalists in Baker Mayfield and Dede Westbrook. The star wide receiver ran wild in the Big 12 and provides a spark in the kicking game alongside Joe Mixon. OU is out to prove it can hang with some of college football's toughest teams after lacking the past few seasons against Clemson, Houston and Ohio State. The question is, will that be enough? Ponies and Wagons 37-35

-BtW

PTF: Prediction Time Friday - Week 13 (Rivalry Week)

Savor the leftovers and kick back on the couch. Rivalry Week is here! This is the best week of the college football season, as hate fills the air. Your neighbors, your friends, your co-workers are either with you or against you. There's nothing like these heated games. Throw out the records, throw out the statistics. With 365 days of bragging on the line, expect the unexpected. After this, we'll be on to championship weekend. But there are lots of scores to settle. Onward with the picks!

2016 BENched PTF Record

Last Week: 10-1
Game of the Week Pick: 4-4

Overall: 107-44 (.709 win %)

*Rankings below reflect the CFB Playoff Top 25

Friday

NC State at North Carolina - Carolina-State Game (UNC leads 66-33-6)
(Line: North Carolina -10.5)
Not the best game of the weekend, but a solid rivalry here. NC State needs a win to become bowl eligible. Carolina needs a win to have a chance at the Coastal Division title (the Heels still have to wait on the Virginia Tech game on Saturday). The Wolfpack have come oh so close several times this season. The difference in this one will be UNC quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Heels 27-21

Arkansas at Missouri - Battle Line Rivalry (Mizzou leads 4-3)
(Line: Arkansas -8)
This has never been much of a rivalry, but the SEC is trying to make it one. The Razorbacks knocked off Mississippi State on the road last weekend, a first in the Beilema era. Mizzou pretty much stinks. Hogs 34-17

No. 16 Nebraska at Iowa - Heroes Game (Nebraska leads 29-14-3)
(Line: Iowa -1.5)
An intriguing game for Nebraska as the Huskers need a win and a Wisconsin loss to clinch the Big Ten West. Iowa has already taken down Michigan a few weeks ago. The Huskers are ranked, but the Hawkeyes are favored. Huskers 23-20

TCU at Texas - (Texas leads 62-23-1)
(Line: Texas -3)
Is Charlie Strong out or is he staying? Will his players play for him or are they tired of the season-long drama? TCU is coming off its worse loss in a long, long time, so the Horned Frogs might be desperate. So might the Longhorns trying to either save Strong's job, or send him off on a positive note. Both teams clinch bowl eligibility with a win, though TCU has one more opportunity next weekend. Horns 45-34

No. 5 Washington at No. 23 Washington State - Apple Cup (UW leads 70-32-6)
(Line: Washington -6)
The most interesting Apple Cup probably ever. Wazzu hosting UW with the Pac-12 North on the line. The Huskies are arguably the more talented team, but the Cougs are led by the unheralded Luke Falk. Washington needs the win to remain in Playoff contention. WSU would love nothing more than to spoil that opportunity. What a game this should be on the Palouse! Huskies 38-37

Baylor vs. Texas Tech - at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas - BUTT Bowl (Baylor leads 37-36-1) 
(Line: Baylor -5.5)
OK, so it's called the BUTT Bowl unofficially - Baylor's initials BU added to Texas Tech's TT. But that's just too funny not to use here! Anyway, the Bears have lost four straight since starting 6-0 this season. Their last three losses have come by 21 points or more each. Texas Tech was just blown out by Iowa State 66-10. What in the world is going on in Lubbock? Bears 44-42

Arizona State at Arizona - Territorial Cup ('Zona leads 48-40-1)
(Line: Arizona State -3)
The Wildcats and Sun Devils duel in the desert for a rivalry lacking intensity this season. Arizona State can only become bowl eligible with a win. Arizona is just 2-9. No gold coming out of the Copper State this time. ASU 31-26

Saturday

GAME OF THE WEEK

JT Barrett and the Buckeyes look to upend
Michigan's shot at the CFB Playoff.
(Photo courtesy The Lima News)

No. 3 Michigan at No. 2 Ohio State - The Game (Michigan leads 58-47-6)
(Line: Ohio State -6.5)
This one is known as The Game and this year, it is the game of the weekend. No. 3 Michigan pays a visit to arch-rival No. 2 Ohio State. With the winner eyeing a Playoff berth, this one means more than most years. In 2006, a similar event occurred in Columbus and the Buckeyes emerged with a thrilling win. Michigan will likely be without starting QB Wilton Speight. A win sends the Wolverines to the Big Ten Championship Game. Ohio State can only win and hope Penn State loses later in the day. Still, the Buckeyes would be in the conversation for a Top 4 spot. All signs point to a Buckeye win, creating chaos for the Playoff Committee. Bucks 30-17

Georgia Tech at Georgia - Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate (UGA leads 65-40-5) 
(Line: Georiga -4)
Mark Richt ain't on the sidelines in red and black anymore. He coached UGA to a 13-2 record against the Yellow Jackets. The Bulldogs, now under Kirby Smart, defeated Auburn and North Carolina, but have a loss to Vanderbilt and narrow wins over Nicholls, Missouri and UL-Lafayette. Tech bounced back from a three-win season to reach seven so far, including an upset in Blacksburg over Virginia Tech. Outside of that, however, the Jackets have basically beaten everybody they should've and lost to everyone better. Dawgs 20-17

Kentucky at No. 11 Louisville - Governor's Cup (Series tied 14-14)
(Line: Louisville -26)
A year ago, Louisville fell behind Kentucky 24-7 before storming back with 31 straight points to win 38-24. Lamar Jackson is the Heisman front-runner and the Cards had an extra couple days to digest their loss at Houston. I doubt this one is close, but we all know anything can happen in these rivalry games. Cards 56-28

Virginia at Virginia Tech - Commonwealth Cup (VT leads 55-37-5)
(Line: Virginia Tech -18.5)
All the Hokies have to do is beat Virginia and they'll travel to Orlando next week for the ACC Championship. Seems pretty easy, as VT has dominated this series, winning 12 in a row. Three of the last four, however, have been by four points or less. Lane Stadium will get to celebrate a Coastal championship along with winning the Commonwealth Cup. Hokies 34-13

Michigan State at No. 7 Penn State - Land Grant Trophy (MSU leads 15-14-1)
(Line: Penn State -12)
If Ohio State beats Michigan and that game ends just prior to kickoff in Happy Valley, the whole stadium will let James Franklin and the Nittany Lions know. All Penn State has to do is take down three-win Sparty. MSU gave Michigan and Ohio State fits, although both of those games were in East Lansing. Penn State is seeking its first-ever trip to the Big Ten Championship Game. Nittany Lions 24-14

No. 13 Auburn at No. 1 Alabama - Iron Bowl (Bama leads 44-35-1)
(Line: Alabama -17)
Two weeks ago, this looked like a clash of SEC West titans once again. Then, Auburn looked inept at Georgia. Alabama doesn't have to win this game, but you and I both know Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide faithful feel otherwise. Both defenses are tough, but the edge has to go to Bama and its ability to wear teams down over four quarters. Tide 34-21

Mississippi State at Ole Miss - Egg Bowl (Ole Miss leads 63-43-6)
(Line: Ole Miss -8)
The Egg Bowl has lost some luster due to both teams fading fast in the last year. An Egg Bowl win gives Ole Miss another bowl trip, while Mississippi State would love to have the Rebels staying home for the holidays too. Freshman Shea Patterson will be baptized by fire in this heated rivalry. He could be the key to an Ole Miss win. Rebs 28-24

Minnesota at No. 6 Wisconsin - Paul Bunyan's Axe (Minnesota leads 59-58-8)
(Line: Wisconsin -14.5)
It's simple for Wisconsin: Win and clinch the Big Ten West. Minnesota has been solid all year, but the Badgers are just too good a team and are playing at home. Camp Randall will be rocking and Wisconsin will get the Axe. Badgers 41-24

Notre Dame at No. 12 USC - Jeweled Shillelagh (ND leads 46-36-5)
(Line: USC -17.5)
These two teams went in opposite directions following Week 1 losses. Remember when USC lost 52-6 to Alabama and began the year 1-3? The Trojans now find themselves in contention for the Pac-12 South, or at the very least a potential berth in a New Year's Six Bowl. That's all thanks to the emergence of quarterback Sam Darnold. As for the Irish, who lost 50-47 in double-OT at Texas, the season ends with this one. ND is 4-7, will miss out on a bowl, has rumors swirling about its head coach, and to top it off was just forced by the NCAA to vacate wins from the 2012 and 2013 seasons. What a nightmare of a fall in South Bend. Trojans 42-20

Oregon at Oregon State - Civil War (Oregon leads 63-46-10)
(Line: Oregon -3)
Aside from the Ducks pulling off a shocker in Utah last weekend, the Civil War has turned into a Civil Pillowfight. Oregon and Oregon State have combined for a 7-15 record. Bragging rights for the next 365 days are all that is on the line. Ducks 31-23

South Carolina at No. 4 Clemson - Palmetto Bowl (Clemson leads 67-42-4)
(Line: Clemson -24)
A fine season for the Gamecocks in Year 1 of the Will Muschamp era. Despite true freshman Jake Bentley leading the charge the last five games (S.Car is 4-1 in that stretch and became bowl eligible), South Carolina might be in over its head in Death Valley. Bentley's only road start was a miserable one at Florida in which the Cocks scored seven points and gained just 256 yards. Clemson is looking for a third straight win in the series and to keep its Playoff hopes on track. This line is strange, considering the Tigers' last two wins in the series have been by a combined 23 points. Deshaun Watson needs to be mistake free. If he is, look out. Tigers 38-24

No. 22 Utah at No. 9 Colorado - Rumble in the Rockies (Colorado leads 31-28-3)
(Line: Colorado -10)
Utah was about an inch away from making this a de facto Pac-12 South championship game. The Utes loss to Oregon was heartbreaking. Now, they travel to resurgent Colorado. The Buffaloes are having  a tremendous turnaround season and could win 10 games for the first time since 2001. Quarterback Sefo Liufau is fun to watch. Colorado looks to earn its first trip to the Pac-12 Championship Game. Buffs 37-20

No. 15 Florida at No. 14 Florida State - Sunshine Showdown (Florida leads 34-24-2)
(Line: Florida State -7.5)
When the Noles and Gators get together, expect fireworks. A scrum typically breaks out during pregame and the trash talking goes on all night. Florida is coming off an emotional win at LSU to secure the SEC East crown again. FSU has won three straight, posting 45 points in back-to-back games. The Noles seniors can accomplish something no other senior class has: finish their careers 8-0 against Miami and Florida. Florida State handled the Gators in The Swamp last year, 27-2. It won't be that bad, but the Noles should take care of business. Noles 31-13

-BtW

PTF: Prediction Time Friday - Week 11

Not much changed after the first weekend in November. Well, aside from Texas A&M falling to Mississippi State. Much of the rest of the country watched as one team after another won in blowout fashion. We've already had one upset this weekend, with Duke taking down No. 17 North Carolina Thursday night, 28-27. This would be a surprise, but that No. 17 ranking has been cursed all season. Don't know if the Thursday upset will lead to anymore this weekend. All four Power 5 unbeatens are favored, and three of them - Alabama, Clemson and Michigan - are favored by 20 or more. Washington is a nine-point favorite over No. 20 USC, so even that line says a lot. Time for some picks!

2016 BENched PTF Record

Last Week: 11-2
Game of the Week Pick: 3-3

Overall: 89-38 (.701 win %)

*Rankings below reflect the CFB Playoff Top 25

Saturday

South Carolina at Florida (Line: Florida -11)
Who would've thought this game would help solve the SEC East puzzle? South Carolina enters "The Swamp" with another former Gator coach, Will Muschamp. The Gamecocks need a win and about a million other scenarios. Florida just needs to win this week and next. But this week first. Gators 27-17

Baylor at No. 11 Oklahoma (Line: Oklahoma -17.5)
Baylor is in disarray following a 62-22 loss to rival TCU amid all the allegations against the school and football team. OU is flying high with an offense that is showing no signs of slowing down. Plus, the Sooners get Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon back this week. Sooners 63-27

No. 10 Penn State at Indiana (Line: Penn State -7)
A tricky spot here for the Nittany Lions, who BENched doesn't believe is a top 10 team. Indiana gave Ohio State and Nebraska fits earlier. The early start on the road provides more reason to believe this could be the upset of the weekend. Key word: could. Nittany Lions 33-31

Kentucky at Tennessee (Line: Tennessee -14)
Like South Carolina-Florida, not many pegged this one as a potential SEC East division title bout. The winner doesn't claim the crown, but the loser would essentially be out of the race. It will be tough for the Wildcats to win in Knoxville, but the Vols' mettle will be tested. Vols 38-28

Mississippi State at No. 1 Alabama (Line: Alabama -29)
No reason to believe Nick Saban and Co. are overlooking a 4-5 Mississippi State squad. The Bulldogs upset of Texas A&M last week likely got the Crimson Tide's full attention all week. Nick Fitzgerald is the type of quarterback that gives Alabama trouble. But there's a reason this line is near 30 points. Bammers 49-13

No. 16 West Virginia at Texas (Line: Texas -2)
Hmm, the Big 12's most complete team is a two-point underdog to the Big 12's most Jekyll and Hyde team. Texas has rhythm on offense, but it will be facing someone with a defense for the first time since losing to K-State. WVU likes to control the game and will do so on the road. 'Neers 31-24

No. 9 Auburn at Georgia (Line: Auburn -10)
The Deep South's Oldest Rivalry takes a back seat this year, mostly due to the Dawgs' pitiful season. Auburn has turned a 1-2 start into a Top 10 ranking and controls its own destiny now in the SEC West. There's uncertainty surrounding quarterback Sean White and running back Kamryn Pettway, so that could factor into whether the Tigers get their first win "Between the Hedges" since 2005. Tigers 34-17

Pittsburgh at No. 2 Clemson (Line: Clemson -20.5)
The pressure is on for Clemson. Dabo Swinney confirmed speculatory reports that Deshaun Watson, Artavis Scott, Mike Williams and Wayne Gallman will all seek to turn pro via the NFL Draft next spring. That means this is now a do-or-don't season for the Tigers. Clemson played its best game a week ago, winning 54-0 over Syracuse. Pitt has given up 30+ points to seven teams this season. Doesn't look good for the Panthers in Death Valley. Tigers 47-20

Stanford at Oregon (Line: Stanford -3)
Remember when the winner of this game would win the Pac-12? Now, these two are combined 9-9. Yeesh. Trees 31-27

No. 24 LSU at No. 25 Arkansas (Line: LSU -7)
How LSU fell 11 spots after taking Bama into the fourth quarter tied 0-0 is beyond me. And how Arkansas found itself back in the rankings two games removed from a 56-3 beatdown by Auburn is also beyond me. Welp, these two battle for the Golden Boot and Arkansas plays well as the underdog in this series. No reason to believe they can't pull off the victory, especially after how spent LSU likely is after the battle with Bama. Hogs 23-17

Minnesota at No. 19 Nebraska (Line: Nebraska -7)
Minnesota is the forgotten team in the Big Ten West. The Gophers are 7-2 overall (4-2 in conference) and still plays Nebraska and Wisconsin in the final three weeks. Both games are on the road, however, so it won't be easy to win the division. We'll find out how the Huskers respond to the shellacking they took in Columbus last week. Corn Guys 37-30

GAME OF THE WEEK

Jake Browning and Washington put Oregon in its place earlier.
Can the Huskies do the same against USC?
(Photo courtesy Joshua Bessex)

No. 20 USC at No. 4 Washington (Line: Washington -9)
Washington hits the meat of its schedule just in time to defend its Top 4 ranking. The Huskies, led by Jake Browning, own the second-best offense in the country. USC finds itself in the Top 25 for the first time in a while after winning five straight. The Trojans have scored 40 or more in four of the five wins, but will be facing a tough UW defense that gives up just 17 points per game (11th best in the nation). All eyes will finally be on the West Coast and the Huskies can show their Purple Reign to the rest of the country. Dawgs 41-24

No. 3 Michigan at Iowa (Line: Michigan -21.5)
Michigan goes on the road for just the third time this season and only the second time outside state borders. Iowa was a preseason darkhorse to cause some havoc in the Big Ten, much like it did a season ago. Things haven't gone the Hawkeyes way, but a night game at Kinnick Stadium with a chance to knock off the Wolverines? That'll bring the best out of Kirk Ferentz's team. Too bad, it won't be nearly enough. Big Blue 40-17

-BtW

No change at the top of the Ben Ten rankings

A little more clarity for the top teams as Texas A&M went down this week. The Committee had them at No. 4, but BENched was slightly wiser and had them at seventh. So the Aggies fall out of the Ben Ten this week, as does Florida. The Top 4 remain intact, but there could certainly be some shakeups in the next few weeks. Three of the Top 4 teams face ranked rivals on the final weekend of the season. Until then, they can't get caught looking ahead.

Playoff Teams

Freshman QB Jalen Hurts was good enough in leading Bama
to a win at LSU Saturday night.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Texas A&M, LSU
This week: vs. Mississippi State
Alabama suffocated LSU, beating the Tigers in Baton Rouge, 10-0. Bama heads home for its final three games, none bigger than the Iron Bowl on Nov. 26. You can rest assured the Crimson Tide won't overlook a Mississippi State team which just defeated Texas A&M.

2) Clemson
Last week: No. 2
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. Pitt
Clemson put together its best performance against Syracuse, beating the Orange, 54-0. Deshaun Watson left late in the second quarter with a bruised shoulder, but all indications are he will be fine for the stretch run. The Tigers host Pitt this weekend. The Panthers are one of the worst passing defenses in the nation, so Watson should get a good chance to test his shoulder out plenty.

3) Michigan
Last week: No. 3
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: at Iowa
Like Clemson, Michigan mauled Maryland, 59-3. Here's the thing about Michigan, and I've said it numerous times, the Wolverines have been dominant. But out of their nine games, only one has been outside the state of Michigan. That game was at Rutgers, a 78-0 demolition. Big Blue has a chance to gain some style points with two road games coming up, starting this weekend at Iowa, then the closer at Ohio State.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 4
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: vs. USC
 I could argue that Washington has done more to impress me than Michigan has, but the Huskies remain fourth for now. UW won convincingly at Cal, 66-27. Washington now has four road wins, double what Michigan has and against better competition. Two big tests face the Huskies - this weekend with College GameDay in Seattle vs. USC and in three weeks at Washington State.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 5
Record: 8-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Florida State
This week: vs. Wake Forest
Louisville did to Boston College what you'd expect, and will probably do the same to the rest of its opponents. The Cardinals know they need as many style points to remain in the Playoff hunt and need a few others to lose along the way. The better they look, the harder it will be to keep them out.

6) Ohio State
Last week: No. 6
Record: 8-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Nebraska
This week: at Maryland
Ohio State blasted a beat up Huskers squad, which will look great in the eyes of the Committee. It adds another data point for a ranked win and keeps the Buckeyes in line for the big showdown with Michigan. The trip to College Park shouldn't be too tall a task, considering what the Wolverines just did to the Terps.

7) Wisconsin
Last week: 8
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: vs. Illinois
Wisconsin knocked off a tough Northwestern team in a lackluster game. The Badgers control the Big Ten West now thanks to Nebraska's loss. This team could give fits to either Ohio State or Michigan in the Big Ten title game, as it already has played both close this season.

8) Auburn
Last week: 10
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU
This week: at Georgia
Auburn struggled at times with Vanderbilt, but held off the Commodores at home. The Tigers are one SEC win away from setting up the tussle in Tuscaloosa. They just have to get by rival Georgia "Between the Hedges" first.

9) Oklahoma
Last Week: NR
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: vs. Baylor
The Sooners fell off the wagon early with losses to Houston and Ohio State. I'm not convinced this is a top 10 team entirely because their latest wins have come against the bottom two-thirds of the Big 12. The final three games will prove where OU stands: vs. Baylor, at West Virginia, vs. Oklahoma State.

10) Utah
Last week: NR
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: at Arizona State (Thursday)
The Utes stumbled two weeks ago in a close loss to Washington, but that's been their only blemish in the past four games. Utah is the only team to slow down Washington, holding the Huskies to 24 offensive points while they average over 48 per game. Wins in their final three games puts the Utes in the Pac-12 championship game.

Dropped out: Texas A&M (7), Florida (9)

Four on the outside: Western Michigan, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M

-BtW

Movement in the bottom half of new Ben Ten

Four undefeated teams lost over the weekend, dropping the total from nine to five. We've reached November which means the College Football Playoff Committee will release its initial ranking Tuesday. Visit this blog afterward as BENched will have a Rapid Reaction to the release. Until then, here's my Top 10.

Playoff Teams

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Texas A&M
This week: at LSU
The Tide had a bye week to get ready for the big one in Baton Rouge. Alabama is playing better than anyone in the country, but they are not unbeatable. LSU gets a crack at the Tide this weekend.

2) Clemson

Deshaun Watson has Clemson on track for another Playoff berth.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

Last week: No. 3
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. Syracuse
There is not a résumé out there better than Clemson's. The Tigers are the only team with three wins against Top 20 foes, two of them on the road. The combined record of the FBS teams Clemson has faced is 37-18 and all 11 FBS teams on the schedule are currently .500 or better.

3) Michigan
Last week: No. 2
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Maryland
While Clemson has two wins on the road against Top 20 teams, Michigan has just two road wins period. And they are against Rutgers and Michigan State, both of which are 2-6. The drop this week is a matter of wanting to see Michigan against better competition. That may only come when the Wolverines travel to Columbus.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 4
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: at Cal
Big win for the Huskies on the road against Utah, but that remains the lone good win on Washington's schedule. The rest of UW's schedule will let us know if this team is worthy of a Playoff spot. Washington travels to Cal, hosts USC and Arizona State, then goes to Washington State for the Apple Cup.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 5
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Florida State
This week: at Boston College
Virginia gave the Cards all they could handle. Three of the last four games have seen Louisville struggle (vs. Duke and at UVA) or lose (at Clemson). The sizzle from September is slowly fading. How will Louisville handle the snoozefest in Chestnut Hill this weekend?

6) Ohio State
Last week: No. 8
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Nebraska
Like Louisville, Ohio State hasn't had a very good last few weekends. They escaped Wisconsin with a big overtime win, but then fell at Penn State and almost slipped up at home against Northwestern. Nebraska is next and the Huskers just went toe-to-toe with the Badgers.

7) Texas A&M
Last week: No. 10
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn
This week: at Mississippi State
The Aggies beat the other Aggies - New Mexico State, that is. Texas A&M takes on the state of Mississippi in its next two games. Any slip up there would be a killer to A&M's outside chance of reaching the Playoff.

At this point, I should remind you that I am putting what I perceive as the best teams in the ranking. 

8) Wisconsin
Last week: NR
Record: 6-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: at Northwestern
Take Wisconsin, for example. The Badgers have two seven-point losses to Michigan and Ohio State. Along with wins over LSU and Nebraska (and Iowa), Wisconsin might be the best two-loss team in the country. What that really means in the grand scheme of things ain't much, though.

9) Florida
Last week: NR
Record: 6-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: at Arkansas
Florida is in control of the SEC East, which also ain't saying much. But the Gators have to travel to Arkansas and now LSU to close out conference play. A trip to FSU also looms, so Florida could very well end up with an 8-4 record.

10) Auburn
Last week: NR
Record: 6-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU
This week: vs. Vanderbilt 
Does anyone want to play Auburn right now? The Tigers' two losses did come at home to Clemson and A&M, but they've reeled off five wins in a row to reach bowl eligibility. They've also separated themselves from the middle tier of the SEC West. They should handle Vandy and Georgia, which sets up another big Iron Bowl.

Dropped out: West Virginia (6), Boise State (7), Nebraska (9) 

Four on the outside: Nebraska, Oklahoma, Western Michigan, West Virginia

-BtW