The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 8

Texas -4 vs Missouri
If you haven't already, it's time to start riding the Longhorn's hot hand. Colt McCoy has been magnificent in leading a balanced attack that ranks 13th in the country in total yards, while the defense has been going beyond just pulling weight. Despite the loss last week, Missouri is still a solid squad and will show up focused for this one. The Tigers quick strikes will keep them in the game but Austin at night will be too much to overcome. Longhorns ride the momentum in a shootout.
Texas 42, Missouri 31

Nevada -22 vs. Utah State
After a shootout loss to New Mexico State last week, the Wolfpack get perfect prescription in the form of a visit from Utah State. The Aggies 95th rated rushing defense can't contain QB Colin Kaepernick and Nevada's 3rd rated rushing game. While Nevada's secondary leaves a lot to be desired, they'll get a week off against this offense. Look, if you remove Idaho and North Texas from the equation, Utah State is the worst team in D 1-A. Don't be afraid to give the points.
Nevada 49, Utah State 20

Rice -2 vs. Southern Miss
One of the themes of the season is the plethora of former Texas high school QBs tearing it up at the college level. Not the be overlooked is 4 year starter Chase Clement of Rice. His 16:4 TD/INT ratio prove his decision making is on point in leading the Owls to the 16th rated passing attack in the country. Southern Miss is comparable, but their QB, Austin Davis, is just a freshman. This discrepency, plus the home field, leads Rice to victory.
Rice 38, Southern Miss 31

Wake Forest -2.5 @ Maryland
It seems Wake is right back where they were two years ago - getting favorable spreads, and covering them in a very ugly way. The Deacons just win - not flashy, but these guys get the job done, week in and week out. For the past two seasons, the Terps have been more eratic that Ralph Friedgan's blood sugar. They may have taken out Cal and Clemson, but lets not forget it was a cross-country trap game for Cal, and Clemson is in a tailspin. My money is on Maryland's load being blown for 2008. Deacons just do what they do, and take care of business.
Wake Forest 19, Maryland 9

Baylor +17 @ Oklahoma St
The Bears and Cowboys have both won for me this year, and I certainly can't play favorites between the two. But after last week's thrilling upset, OK St. is due for a mild letdown. Speaking of Texas high school studs, Robert Griffin doesn't need you to let your guard down to get you. The freshman phenom has thrown 9 TDs to 0 picks, while running for 8 TDs. Throw in some mystique (he was born in Japan) and your money is in good hands with this guy. I think the Cowboys will be too focused on the prize to be upset, but Baylor will give them a run for their money. Baylor has a chance to be the first 3-time winner on the 2008 blog. That in itself is motivation.
Oklahoma State 35, Baylor 27

Weekly Pick Em Results
Gotta pat myself on the back this week, 60% is the magic number. Leave it to the Irish to play the spoiled apple.

Dave 9-1; 42-28 60%
Lee 3-7; 33-37 47%
Stasko 4-6; 28-32 46%
Freeman 4-6; 32-38 45%
Ken 5-5; 26-44 37%

GAMES THIS WEEK
IOWA -3.5 vs. Wisconson
NORTHWESTERN -4 vs. Purdue
MICHIGAN ST +3.5 vs. Ohio State
TEXAS -5.5 vs. Missouri
PENN ST -23 vs. Michigan
ARIZONA +2.5 vs Cal
ILLINOIS -15 vs. Indiana
OKLAHOMA -20 vs. Kansas
GEORGIA -15 vs. Vanderbilt
WASHINGTON ST +42.5 vs. USC

Dave:Iowa,Purdue,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Arizona,Illinois,Kansas,Georgia,USC
Lee:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Cal,Illinois,Kansas,Vanderbilt,USC
Freeman:Wisconsin,Purdue,Michigan St,Texas,Michigan,Cal,Illinois,Oklahoma,Georgia,USC
Ken:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Cal,Illinois,Kansas,Georgia,Wash St
Stasko:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Ohio St,Missouri,Michigan,Cal,Illinois,Oklahoma,Vanderbilt,Wash St