After going 4/5 in my picks last week, I am back this week with my predictions for what I believe are the most important five games this week.
1. #17 Michigan State at #18 Michigan
This year the battle for the state of Michigan pits two undefeated and highly ranked teams against each other. Michigan State pulled off the upset against Wisconsin last week, and they will be looking to ruin another teams's undefeated season this week. Their surprisingly stingy defense, and effective offense could present Michigan with problems. Michigan has the most electric player in the country in Denard Robinson, but their defense has proven vulnerable. Hopefully Michigan State won't ruin my perfect week two weeks in a row, as I predict Michigan to win in a close one.
Prediction: Michigan: 35 MSU: 27
2. #1 Alabama at #19 South Carolina
The Crimson Tide are riding high after the beating they laid on Florida last week, and they should continue their winning ways this week. South Carolina has had two weeks to prepare for Bama, but their simply is not time enough to prepare for the talent of the Tide. Marcus Lattimore and a stout defense could be enough to keep the game close in the first half, but the second half will belong to Mark Ingram and the tide. Look for Bama to win by over twenty again. Roll Tide!
Prediction: BAMA: 31 SC: 10
3. #12 LSU at #14 Florida
LSU is once again off to an undefeated record to begin the season despite their less than elite talent. That should change this week as they face off against a Florida team that should be fired up after getting hammered last week against Alabama. LSU has a top-notch defense, but their offense is nothing to get excited about. Florida's defense should allow less than 10 points, and their offense should be able to break at least one touchdown. I'll take Florida in a low-scoring, ugly game.
Prediction: Florida: 14 LSU: 9
4. #23 Florida State at #13 Miami (FL)
The rivalry between Florida State and Miami has always been an interesting one, and this year should be no different. Christian Ponder looks to lead the Seminoles to a victory against Jacory Harris and the Hurricanes. Both defenses should come to play, and the game should come down to which quarterback can make more explosive plays and less mistakes. I think Jacory Harris is due for a strong game, and he will lead Miami to a victory in a tight, hard-fought game.
Prediction: Miami: 28 FSU: 24
5. USC at #16 Stanford
Last year Stanford destroyed USC in a game that should have left a bitter taste in the mouths of the USC players. This year we will see how much heart the Trojans really have. For once, Stanford may have more talent than USC, and they are definitely the favorites. I expect USC to come out fired up for this one, but they won't have quite enough to knock off Stanford, led by star quarterback, Andrew Luck.
Prediction: Stanford: 31 USC: 21
Denard Robinson. Before the 2010 season of college football began, the name was known only to loyal Michigan Wolverine fans and the residents of Deerfield Beach, FL, his hometown. Now, entering week six of the season, Denard Robinson has become a household name. He has electrified the college football world, using his phenomenal speed, vision, and quickness to dominate opposing defenses. He is averaging an amazing 181 yards rushing per game and 383 total yards per game. He is completing nearly 70% of his passes (69.8) and has thrown for over 1,000 yards, but it is his ability in the running game that makes him stand out. Through five games he has recorded 905 yards on only 98 carries for an unheard of 9.2 ypc. He also has 15 touchdowns (8 rushing, 7 passing). Robinson has come out of nowhere, and he is now the leading candidate for the coveted Heisman trophy. This sudden emergence begs the questions, where did Denard Robinson come from?
