Tyler B.
USC -7 @ Vanderbilt
The fact that I’m leading off with this game says it all. The biggest home game in Vanderbilt history – and ushering in the college football season – the outcome of this game drastically shapes the East. A Vandy win knocks USC out of the SEC East race before we even get to Week 2 and the Vanderbilt momentum marches on. For all the hype let’s not forget how good USC really is and that Vandy only won seven games last year, not 14. Vanderbilt will cause some problems in the East this year but it’s still too early to ask this much from them.
USC Covers: Cocks 31 – Vandy 21
Bama -14 vs. Michigan
The #8 team in the country is a 14-point underdog? I didn’t know that was even possible and it has to some kind of record. Despite a truckload of talent departing for games played on Sunday, “The Process” simply means Saban and his Tide roll on. I’m not sold on Michigan’s record from last year and a speedy quarterback hasn’t fared well against an SEC defense in quite some time. The best offensive line in the country means Bama continues to score late and Kirby Smart’s defense doesn’t allow cheap points.
Bama Covers: Bama 31- Michigan 14
Clemson -3’ vs. Auburn
Clemson will have a big year and it’s going to be a disappointing one for Auburn. Being buried in the deep SEC West still means Auburn can compete, but Clemson is simply better.
Clemson Covers: Clemson 24 – Auburn 13
Tennessee -3’ vs. NC State
The “any team in the SEC is better than any team in your conference” logic pulls me towards taking the Vols but UT is just really, really bad. The pressure has been on for quite a while for the Man in the Orange Pants, and the loss of Da’rick Rogers simply gives them one less weapon. Neither team exactly lights up the scoreboard, but the edge definitely goes to the Pack when comparing the two. We all know about Tyler Bray’s awesome tattoo, but Mike Glennon threw for nearly 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns last year. Did I mention that Tennessee is awful… and they are favored by a field goal and the hook? The ACC sweeps the mighty SEC and Dooley has just about completed his Green Mile sprint. (I bet the Georgia Dome loves this game)
NC State Covers: Pack 24 – Vols 14
Louisville -14 vs. Kentucky
UK will not win one SEC game this year and rivals the 1994 team that ended up 1-10. This is not good for Joker Phillips who gets fired if the Cats go 5-7. It’s a home game for the confident Cards; however, the remnants of hurricane Isaac will dump a ton of rain during the game meaning one or two plays could give the Cats a chance. In a mild surprise the Cats keep it close and score late to cover the spread.
Kentucky Covers: Louisville 27 – Kentucky 17
UGA -38 vs. Buffalo: UGA Covers 51-10.
Florida -29 vs. Bowling Green: Bowling Green Covers 35-10
LSU -43 vs. North Texas: LSU Covers: 49-3
Missouri – NL
Texas A&M/La. Tech Postponed.
Tyler B. works as a communications specialist for a Louisville, Kentucky company. A lifetime SEC fan – long before it became “acceptable” to cheer for every team in the conference – he plans on writing several books about college football that have a fantastic chance of never being written.
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